UK consumers are apparently risking huge medical bills by hitting the piste without ski insurance.
Sports enthusiasts from the UK are risking huge medical bills by heading to the slopes without sufficient ski insurance.
The Association of British Insurers (ABI) has stated that repatriation and hospital costs can spiral into thousands of pounds should individuals suffer an injury abroad.
Indeed, a recent survey has suggested 31 per cent of Brits have embarked on a winter sports break without first buying a travel insurance policy.
Nick Kirwan, assistant director of health and protection at the body, said: "It is alarming that nearly a third of people planning winter sports holidays do not intend to take out travel insurance."
He pointed out bills can be "crippling" and a policy is a vital consideration before donning any ski kit or embarking on a flight.
The same government research has suggested people believe their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) will cover costs including repatriation to the UK from the slopes, but they would be mistaken. The ABI states the card will not stretch to pay for private treatment or mountain rescue, which could be an expensive eventuality.
Independent financial research company Defaqto has also issued advice that suggests holidaymakers check their insurance documents carefully to ensure they provide the necessary cover, including items such as loss of a ski pass or closure of the piste, which could appear as optional extras.
Mike Powell, insight analyst for general insurance at the company, said: "We would urge people to focus on policy features and not just focus on paying the lowest price for cover."
By Anne Jones
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