Twice as many people encountered difficulties on the slopes in 2006 as opposed to 12 months previously, according to the latest statistics, in news that may prompt more travel insurance customers to obtain winter sports cover.
Research cited by insurance broker American Express Travel Insurance shows that a total of 50,000 skiers and snowboarders needed to be rescued from the French Alps this year, marking a 100 per cent year-on-year rise.
Underlining the potential costs involved, the travel insurance specialist points out that the cost of being airlifted out of a dangerous area can reach up to £2,000.
But the price of winter sports cover as a one-off addition to an annual travel insurance broker starts from £10 per person.
Joanne Field, marketing manager at American Express Travel Insurance, remarked: “Last year there were twice as many accidents in the French Alps.”
She added: “We would encourage everyone to ski or board wisely and obtain appropriate travel insurance cover before they depart.”
People looking to get protection before jetting off on holiday can choose between single trip insurance and extended-term insurance cover.
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