Hitting the pistes? Get the right cover

Posted 22/02/2013

When it comes to planning your skiing holiday, arranging your insurance may not fill you with excitement and yet, getting it right could ultimately save you a small fortune.If you haven’t already, make sure that you apply for a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). This will grant you state healthcare either free or at a lower cost. But bear in mind that the level of provision varies by country – and few will cover the full cost of medical treatment.For peace of mind, get proper winter sports cover. Aside from the standard cover such as medical expenses, repatriation and so on, make sure you are covered for:

• The full cost of your ski equipment;
• No snow, adverse conditions and piste closure;
• Other activities you might try, such as ice-diving or ice-climbing;
• Skiing off-piste (if that’s what you plan to do).Whilst it may be be time consuming, it is always advisable to check the small print. You may find you are only covered if you wear a ski helmet – and not covered if you have had a drink or two.Tom Ranson, of Ashtons Legal Injury Services, says: “The Devil is always in the detail – make sure you get what you think you are paying for. It is too late after the event and you certainly don’t want to be arguing your rights from a hospital bed, for example.”

Read more about our Personal Injury team.