General Liability Insurance
- High-limits from $1M to $6M
- Affordable rates
- Non-Owned and Hired Auto Liability
- Sex Abuse/Molestation
Accident Insurance
- Reimburse medical bills
- Limits up to $100k
- Deductible options
What is mountain biking?
Mountain biking is a thrilling activity that involves riding a bicycle on different types of off-road terrain. It is an excellent way for riders to exercise while connecting with nature. This sport is dynamic and requires the rider to have endurance, speed, and balance between working through the mountain trails. Many bikers join mountain bike organizations to travel in groups.
Mountain biking paths can range from a rocky and challenging uphill path to a peaceful ride on scenic trails. The types of mountain biking include trail riding, cross-country cycling, downhill biking, all-mountain, and Enduro. No matter the difficulty of the path the rider chooses, they will get an incredible workout for their legs and strengthen their cardiovascular system.
Does mountain biking have health benefits?
Many people prefer mountain biking as their favorite form of exercise instead of going to the gym. This preference is because mountain biking is highly beneficial for the riders’ health. It also allows people to explore the outdoors. Mountain biking is a great full-body exercise that will also help with improving stamina and coordination. When riders go mountain biking regularly, they can expect to see some building, toning, and strengthening their muscles.
Is mountain biking risky?
The degree of risk in mountain biking depends on the terrain. For example, the risk is not very high if a rider is on an easy trail that is relatively flat with a smooth surface. However, mountain biking can be hazardous for the more advanced terrains. For instance, the risk level increases when the trails are steep, with significant drop-offs and large rocks that are hard to avoid.
Common injuries in mountain biking
- Skin Abrasions
- Joint Sprains
- Back Pain
- Broken Collarbone
- Concussion
According to a study, 70% of mountain biking injuries that result in hospitalization are due to mountain bikers falling off their bike. These most severe falling cases are due to rugged terrain that causes the biker to lose control. So, suppose you are thinking about going on rough and steep terrain. In that case, you should be taking the correct precautions to help reduce injuries.
Mountain Biking Risk Management Strategies
A mountain biking organization should have risk management practices to help avoid severe injuries due to accidents. It could also help the organization prevent lawsuits from potentially avoidable accidents on the mountain.
The following are strategies that your organization can begin to implement for risk management:
- Correct Equipment: Mountain bikes differ from the regular road bikes used on paved roads. They have larger, flatter tires for stability, increased up-right cycling position, and raised suspension. All of these characteristics contribute to a better ride for mountain bikers. Therefore, mountain riders must use the correct bike to handle the trails’ terrain better.
- Matching Experience To Trail: The riders should not take on trails above their experience level. Some paths are much more complex than others. IIf an inexperienced rider goes on a route that their skill level does not suit, it may result in injury.
- Training: All bikers should know and understand the mountain bike mechanics. They should feel confident with the equipment before going on a mountain trail. The rider should be aware of how to adjust the bike saddle, the height of pedals, the brakes, and the helmet’s position so that they can ride comfortably.
- Mechanical Issues: Before going out for a ride, check the mechanics of a bike. The brakes, handlebars, and steering gears should be in top-notch condition.
- Liability Waivers: Mountain biking is for all ages. Therefore, it is helpful to protect your organization by getting the patrons to sign a liability waiver. If the rider is under 18, they need to have a guardian sign a specific liability waiver on their behalf. These liability waivers will help the riders understand mountain biking risks and their responsibilities. As well, it could help release some liability off of your organization.
Mountain biking in different weather conditions
Another risk management tactic you can implement is preparing for the forecasted weather conditions. As mountain biking is an outdoor activity, you must consider the weather before sending bikers onto the trail. Ideal weather for mountain biking is when there are clear skies and mild temperatures. However, with additional steps, bikers can still explore the trails when it’s raining. Bikers will need to add heavier lubricant on their chains, throw on mudguards, wear waterproof attire, and bike at a slower pace to ride in the rain safely. Of course, no one should be out biking if there is a forecast for lightning outside as it is incredibly unsafe.
The benefits of mountain biking insurance
By nature, mountain biking can be a hazardous sport. If your organization is responsible for mountain bikers exploring off-roading terrain, you could be liable for injuries that happen. No matter what type of risk management practice you choose, the uncertainty of the mountain paths can still cause accidents that are hard to prepare against.
Getting a comprehensive mountain biking insurance package will be highly beneficial to help limit your organization’s risk. Adding specific insurance policies could help protect your business against lawsuits. These lawsuits could end up costing your organization a lot of money, even if you were not negligent.
Adding a solid general liability policy to your package can help with the possible financial losses from lawsuits arising from bodily injury. In addition, an Accident policy pays medical bills on behalf of injured participants, usually after existing family insurance has first responded.
Get mountain biking insurance that fits your business.
Protecting yourself and your business is essential to owning a thriving business. With an excellent insurance policy, you can avoid the unwanted stress of the unknown and get the peace of mind you deserve. Sadler Insurance offers a comprehensive mountain biking insurance plan that is customizable for your organization’s needs.
When working with Sadler, you can expect broad coverages and competitive rates with savings up to 38%. We have been in business since 1957 and can help protect your business from significant financial damages. So get a quote now and let Sadler Insurance become an integral part of your risk management practice and help reduce your liabilities.