For many, hurtling down mountains on a fibreglass board, or two fibreglass strips, is the ultimate rush. Crashing into trees is a slightly more painful experience, however. Too often it is only that split second before impact that people realise the value of winter sports travel insurance.

Given the expense of possible medical bills and the pricey equipment used, winter sport travel insurance is as essential a part of the holiday as packing your ski goggles. Many holidaymakers choose the easy option of getting their insurance from their travel agent at the time of booking, but there is now a wide selection of insurance companies providing comprehensive cover, and it makes sense to choose a policy that is right for you.

Policies sold by high street agents are amongst the most expensive on the market, and it pays to get insurance from independent brokers. Perry Wilson, a director for leading independent insurance providers, Insure & Go, explains; "New UK legislation forbids travel agents linking holiday discounts with free travel insurance. Paying more for your policy does not guarantee a more comprehensive cover."

Perry Wilson went on to say, "Insurance for medical expenses is essential for any skier. One in ten skiers require treatment following an injury. We provide low cost insurance, which allows individuals to claim up to £5 million, which will cover the cost of helicopter rescue and repatriation, for example."

Crash landing into cars and restaurants can be an expensive (and painful) business, which is why policies such as those provided by Insure & Go also cover Personal Liability. Insure & Go for example provide £2 million for personal liability, and an extra £15000 for legal expenses should the restaurateur you just flattened become a bit upset.

Insure & Go's Wintersport policy also provides cover for your equipment. Up to £500 can be claimed for items that are stolen or should you wrap your skis round a tree. In addition, this package also covers you should the snow fail to materialise, like it did last year, or if too much arrives and there is an avalanche. On top of this there is an annual policy for those who like to take a number of skiing holidays throughout the year, and if you are taking the kids, up to three of them can get free insurance when you buy your policy. Did your travel agent offer you all this?

NOTES TO EDITORS

There is a range of cover available to suit every travellers needs. All children under the age of eighteen will travel free and an Insure & Go policy can be sold to anyone up to the age of 69. Whether you are taking a year out or a short trip to the sun, there are policies to suit everyone. Many policies also cover an extensive number of sporting activities, including free winter sports cover on annual policies. A 24 hour help line is also at hand to assist with any legal advice or medical assistance required.

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