Trying out winter sports like ice skating, skiing and snow boarding can be very exciting, especially if this is your first time experiencing winter weather. However, you should also know the risks and be prepared.
Is it risky to do winter sports without the sports insurance?
Yes. If you have to pay your own hospital bills for a broken bone, you might be shocked at how much that would cost. I checked this website for some cost estimates.
Here are a couple examples:
- Without medical coverage, to treat a broken arm or leg (that does not require surgery) it could cost up to $2,500.
- Without medical coverage, to treat a broken arm or leg (requiring surgery) it could cost $16,000 or more.
It is important that you understand how the medical coverage works for sports related injuries. There is a list of “high-risk sports/activities” that are not covered with the basic or upgrade medical insurance plans. Those activities are only covered with the Sports Insurance Package.
The Sports Insurance was available pre-departure and may also be purchased at any time during your year. It takes effect within 48 hours of your enrollment and it is good for 12 months. The cost will be the same ($105) whether you have a month left or your whole year ahead of you. I recommend you pay for it early on, if you didn’t already purchase it. You never know when an opportunity might present itself and you don’t want to miss out on an adventure. You also don’t want to take a risk on getting injured and being responsible for the bill on your own.
Below is a partial list of sports that are only covered with the sports insurance package:
Football, Rugby, Scuba diving, Ski-doo, Wakeboarding, Skydiving, Parachuting, Rock climbing, Zip line, Skate boarding, Rollerblading, Roller skating, Ice Skating, Skiing, Snowboarding, Snowmobiles & Snowshoeing. View the full list on your insurance brochure.
Note: Injuries sustained while partaking in these sports are ONLY covered with purchase of the Sports Insurance.
How to register for the Sports Insurance
Use the 2022 Sports Insurance Enrollment Form to register. Contact your counselor, if you are unsure which insurance package you have and/or have questions about sports insurance.
If you think you will be doing any of these sports, you should get it now.
