10th March, 2007
There has been an increase in the number of holidaymakers going off piste this winter in an effort to find the best snow, following low levels of snowfall across Europe. Some may be doing so without the necessary protection from their skiing travel insurance cover. Reports of patchy snow have resulted in more snowboarders and skiers seeking out new, more satisfying skiing locations.
American Express Travel Insurance has issued the warning, pointing out that not all skiing trip travel insurance policies will cover inexperienced skiers off-piste, even if they are under the supervision of a guide. It is therefore important to check your skiing trip insurance policy before you leave because, as American Express points out, you could be liable for large costs if an accident takes place off piste and you find your policy does not cover you.
The winter sports part of your skiing travel insurance policy is designed not only to cover damage to or loss of your ski equipment but also your liability to others and your medical safety. Costs for the latter can be astronomical if you are heading to the USA or Canada.
Joanne Field, marketing manager at American Express Travel Insurance, explained: "Last year there were twice as many accidents in the French Alps than the year before, so we would encourage everyone to ski or board wisely and obtain appropriate skiing travel insurance cover before they depart."
The cost of airlifting someone from the French Alps can reach £2,000, meaning a comprehensive skiing trip travel insurance policy can be of huge benefit should the worst happen when off piste.
Here's a handy little insurance news html snippet which you can put directly into your website or blog to link to this story:
This will appear on your site as follows:
Insurancewide News Story: Skiing trip insurance warning of 'off piste' danger.
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