0800 021 7048

Heading for a slippery slope?

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

Category: Secured Loans

As the winter sports season commences, AA Travel Insurance has expressed concerns regarding the rising number of people heading for the slopes without winter sports holiday insurance.

It would seem that the amount of accidents on the slopes is rising; particularly snowboarding accidents, with the most frequent accidents involving collisions between snowboarders and skiers.

Director of AA Travel Insurance, Christian Young, commented: "A fifth of Britons now enjoy winter sports each year and that means the pistes are becoming more crowded.  Overcrowding is also tempting people to take risks – such as skiing off-piste, away from the throng, without a guide which obviously can be dangerous.  But I'm most concerned that according to the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, up to a third (31 per cent) are travelling without insurance that covers the sports they intend to take part in."

According to AA Travel Insurance, the cost of breaking a leg whilst holidaying in America is approximately £10,000, and approximately £4,000 in Europe.  This outlay can rise to £15,000 when including the cost of a helicopter recovery and hospital fees.  Furthermore, additional costs may be incurred if it becomes necessary to charter a flight home.
Christian Young remarked: "Many people don't realise that collisions on the slopes are dealt with in much the same way as a car accident.  If a collision is clearly your fault, you could well be held personally liable so insurance is absolutely fundamental.  It's the same as with car insurance – it's there to protect others just as much as protecting you."

In order to enjoy a winter sports holiday unscathed, AA Travel Insurance has offered some simple tips:

  • Do not attempt runs that are unsuitable for your ability.
  • Embark upon lessons if you are a beginner or if you need a refresher.
  • Be aware of signs and markers along the slopes.
  • Ensure that there is enough space when passing other skiers or snowboarders.
  • Only stop at the edge of the piste or where you can clearly be seen.
  • Do not go off-piste, which may invalidate your travel insurance.
  • Ensure that you and your party have a map of the pistes and stick to the main areas.
  • Refrain from skiing or snowboarding alone.
  • Get fit prior to your holiday.
  • Do not drink alcohol until you have finished skiing or snowboarding for the day.

……………………………………………………………………………………………….......

Homeowners who usually head for the slopes at this time of the year but have instead decided to stay put in favour of embarking upon projects around the home, could consider taking out a secured loan.  One of many options available, a secured loan for home improvements could allow the borrower to create that dream property.  For example, if extra living space is desired then an extension or conservatory could be invested in.  Furthermore, if a new kitchen is long overdue then this could be fitted.  A secured loan could pave the way to that ideal home.
Typical 10.4% APR variable
Nemo Personal Finance

© 2012 Nemo Personal Finance Ltd. All rights reserved.

Authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority for arranging general insurance.

Registered in England and Wales No. 5188059.

Registered office:
Principality Buildings Queen Street Cardiff CF10 1UA

Calls may be monitored or recorded for training, compliance and evidential purposes.

A Nemo loan is secured on your home and is for homeowners with a mortgage only.

Nemo does not provide homeowner loans for business or invesment purposes.

All loans are subject to status.

Nemo is a member of the FLA (Finance and Leasing Association) and follows its Lending Code.