As the winter sports season approaches, leading insurer Aviva is warning holidaymakers to be aware of the potential risks and high medical costs associated with winter sports injuries. According to Aviva’s data, the most common winter sports injuries are broken legs, followed by broken arms and head injuries. However, pelvic injuries are the most expensive to treat, with an average cost of £8,354.
The data also reveals that Andorra and the USA are the most expensive countries for winter sports medical claims, with an average cost of £10,648. The cost of medical treatment varies significantly from country to country, with Canada, Austria, and Italy also featuring in the top 10 most expensive countries.
Aviva’s research also found that 11% of travelers choose not to purchase travel insurance, despite the high medical costs involved. The insurer is urging travelers to check their policy documents to ensure they have adequate cover for winter sports activities, as standard travel insurance may not always include winter sports.
To stay safe and protected during the winter sports season, Aviva is offering the following tips:
1. Choose the right equipment and wear a helmet to reduce the risk of falls and injuries.
2. Know your limits and stick to slopes that match your skill level.
3. Keep connected and make sure someone in your group has a fully charged mobile phone.
4. Go easy on the après-ski and avoid drinking alcohol before heading back onto the slopes.
5. Check your insurance cover and consider taking out an optional add-on for winter sports.
6. Contact your insurer early if something goes wrong and you need to make a claim.
Aviva’s Travel Manager, James Devereux, comments: “Winter sports trips can be exciting, but they often come with more risk than a standard beach holiday. It’s essential to check that you have the right level of cover for your needs, and to take out travel insurance as soon as you book to give you peace of mind and protect you and your belongings.”
By taking out travel insurance and following Aviva’s tips, travelers can enjoy their winter sports holiday with confidence and protection. With the average winter sports claim increasing by 55% in the USA over the last few years, it’s essential to be prepared and have the right level of cover in place.