Homeowners (HO) coverage is valuable. Besides protecting us against the consequences of losses we may cause at our homes, HO policies also handle losses that occur away from home. That protection includes losses connected with many activities, such as biking.

What's at stake? Well, consider what may happen. If, while walking, one person collides with another, the likely consequence is embarrassment. The chance of injury is higher in a collision between a person running and a walker. Now, consider an adult on an adult-sized bike, colliding with a pedestrian.

Bikers must be aware of the harm they could cause to others as they ride. Serious injuries can easily occur with a pedestrian being struck by a rider's combined weight and a bicycle. Both pedestrian and riders also must contend with the harm of tangling up with the whirling wheels and gears of the bike itself. Bike and pedestrian accidents can cause serious breaks, cuts, burns and even dismemberment.

Considering all the risks related to biking, what should a conscientious bicyclist do to minimize the possibility of accidents with pedestrians? Here are some suggestions:

• Wear bright colored clothing while biking
• Where available, use specially marked bike lanes
• Shout clear warnings to pedestrians you are about to pass
• Use reflectors and lights on your bike
• Avoid night-time bike riding
• Obey traffic signals and laws
• Do not operate a bike with distractions such as listening to music via ear buds or earphones

Accidents of all kinds are reduced or avoided by being more aware. Take care when riding!