Holidaymakers 'opt to ski without insurance'
Published On 23 October 2007
Holidaymakers from the UK are trying dangerous sports while away which are not covered by their travel insurance policies, a new report has warned.Data released by esure showed that 17 per cent of UK adults would try dangerous sports - such as ice-lake diving, off-piste snowboarding and tobogganing - even if they were aware that these activities were not covered by their travel insurance.
In total, the insurer estimated that 25 per cent of all winter holidaymakers will head off on a skiing trip without cover.
Ignorance is also a problem, as it was revealed that five per cent think that their European Health Insurance card (formally the E111) will offer them access to medical treatment in the event of an accident.
Over a quarter (27 per cent) also take to the slopes holding the mistaken belief that all annual travel insurance policies cover skiing.
"Any winter sports holiday comes with a certain element of risk. Whether on a nursery slope or a black run, accidents do happen and it's crucial to have medical cover to avoid footing a hefty bill," warned Jacky Brown, head of travel insurance at esure.
"With the rise in high-adrenaline, adventure sports - such as heli-skiing and ice-lake diving - it's also important to check the insurance small print before booking and be mindful of any exclusions. Call your insurer if you're unsure whether or not you'll be covered."
Earlier this year, Saga revealed that one in three people from the UK were unaware that the E111 was no longer valid in Europe.
