The recent ski accident of F1 great Michael Schumacher provides us with a stern reminder of the importance of getting winter sports travel insurance. Skiing or snowboarding is always enjoyable but without insurance coverage, the vacation is something that you would rather forget. We do not know when accidents may happen so it is always best to be safe than sorry.
A November 2012 study by insurance firm Aviva showed that only 4 out of 10 first time snow sports enthusiasts have winter sports insurance coverage. The study also revealed that the more experienced winter sports enthusiasts are the ones who will most likely apply for this type of insurance. This goes to show that people who have gone on winter sports holidays are aware of the risks of this kind of activity.
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You might think that having an annual travel insurance policy is enough to cover you in case you get injured from engaging in winter sports. Bear in mind that the regular insurance policy will not cover you for winter sports. However, this may vary from one insurer to another so it is important to read and understand the fine prints. In general, winter sports travel insurance does not cover ski acrobatics and stunting, ski mountaineering, or the use of bobsleighs, luges, skeletons or bungees. If you are involved in one of these activities, it is best to consult a specialist insurer.
While your regular insurance policy does not offer coverage for winter sports, you also need to be careful not to accidentally invalidate your specialist insurance coverage. Be aware of the exclusions of your policy. For example, you might not be covered if you are drunk during the accident or if you skied defying the warnings of local authorities.
Likewise, some insurance providers do not offer coverage for safety equipment. The good thing is that insurers now require wearing protective helmets or their claims will not be paid out. Again, it is important to thoroughly read and understand the details of your policy and do comply with them.
Applying for winter sports travel insurance? Check out this list of providers to help you find the right coverage for you.
