Donate SIGN UP

Snowboarding Safer Than Skiing

16:36 Mon 24th May 2010 |

Many of us look forward to our two week holiday every year and for some that is to hit the slopes. For most that is skiing but should we be looking to do more snowboarding?

Implausibly, travel insurance companies have announced they have discovered that skiing is actually more dangerous than snowboarding.

Recent travel insurance surveys have shown that the average cost of snowboarding claims is actually less than claims made while skiing, and are mostly for sprained ankles.

The cost of claims is rising however - unsurprisingly - I mean, when did you last watch someone attempt to ski headfirst down concrete steps?

"Provided snowboarders are properly equipped, their legs are tightly bound to the board and protected, which leaves less opportunity for the flailing limb injuries which often happens with skiers," said a travel insurance spokeswoman.

"Boarding uses different skills and is also a slower way to cruise down the slopes, which leaves less chance for high speed crashes and collisions with other people."

Treatment costs for snowboarding have nonetheless increased 50 per cent over the last few years, a fact that travel insurance companies attribute to greater numbers of novices taking to the slopes.

Part of the reason for the lower claims value is that despite snowboarding having been a popular sport for many years there are many more people still going skiing. The sport is synonymous with winter, and will remain so for a long time.

Many insurance companies now do tailor made policies for winter sports. It is worth checking online for the best deals and policies that fit your individual needs. Also make sure you check any excess that may apply as this can be a bigger shock than any accident you may have. The price of replacing damaged equipment may not always be covered.

If you would like to know more about travel insurance why not ask AnswerBank Insurance.

Do you have a question about Insurance?