Winter sports: don’t risk it without cover

Winter sports enthusiasts should pay more attention to the details of their travel insurance, Insurancewide.com said today.

Chief executive James Harrison issued a caution to holidaymakers to examine what they are buying more closely to avoid being underinsured or facing claim rejection.

“Cheap travel insurance is not hard to find but consumers need to understand where to look and what they’re looking for. Too many winter sports enthusiasts are buying standard travel insurance as a last minute thought without knowing what cover they actually need and without paying attention to what’s excluded from the policy. Relying on the free policy you get with your bank account package or credit card insurance, for example, will not necessarily protect you from most hazardous sports.”

“A specific winter sports travel insurance policy should include cover for skiing or boarding, piste closure, ski equipment, medical costs including rescue and repatriation, your liability to others and your luggage. Your policy should include a minimum of £2 million for medical expenses and £1 million for personal liability.

“In Europe a helicopter mountain rescue service costs around £1,500 and repatriation costs are likely to be around £4,000. These costs escalate further in America where repatriation can cost up to £35,000. And while European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) will cover you for basic medical treatment in EU countries it has limitations and shouldn’t be seen a substitute for winter sports travel insurance.”

“Always compare policies on a like-for-like basis and be aware that most travel insurance policies will not cover you for pre-existing medical conditions or any claim that results from being under the influence of alcohol or drugs.”

Top tips

If you already have an annual travel insurance policy check the small print carefully as you may have to pay extra to include winter sports.

Make sure you keep your winter sports travel insurance documents as well as a contact phone number to hand in case of emergency.

If you have an accident, contact your insurer immediately and make sure you retain all your receipts as evidence of what you are claiming for. Typically, policies list what the insurer needs from you in the event of making of claim and you must comply if you want to increase your chance of recouping your costs.