Bike doctor

Dear Matt,

I recently read that cyclists now need third-party accident cover (Warning to cyclists who do not have insurance). What is your view? And where is best to buy it?
Tristan Leaver, via email

Unlike motorists, there is no legal compulsion on cyclists to have third party insurance cover. But it's not a bad idea - even if the likelihood of you as a cyclist being liable for compensation for damage or injury to another road user is fairly negligible. But strange things happen - especially in a world where a cyclist can be successfully prosecuted for not riding in the gutter.

The simplest way to get third-party insurance is to join one of the membership organisations, such as the Cyclists Touring Club (CTC) - whose director is thus cheerfully promoting the idea in the story you mention. British Cycling (the sport's governing body) also includes it as an automatic benefit of membership. Local cycling organisations (such as the London Cycling Campaign) may do the same, but check in each case. Getting your insurance this way is cost-effective because these bodies get discount rates.