Increasing snow sports accidents abroad
Snow sports accidents abroad have increased again. Suva points out that good self-assessment and appropriate driving behavior reduce the likelihood of injury. In addition, it is worthwhile to check the insurance coverage abroad.
Sports vacations in neighboring countries are popular. This is also shown by Suva's Accident figures. According to statistics from Switzerland's largest accident insurance company, the proportion of snow sports accidents has risen from 12 to 20 percent over the past two decades. This corresponds to around 6200 accidents per year, which is one fifth of all 33,000 snow sports accidents. According to Suva, most of these accidents occur in Austria, followed by France and Italy.
Suva reminds people that it is worth checking their current insurance when taking a sports vacation abroad. In principle, only those who are employed for at least eight hours a week are automatically insured for leisure accidents. In this case, the compulsory accident insurance covers the costs of medical treatment within the EU or EFTA.
However, if treatment takes place in the private ward of a public hospital or in a private clinic, additional costs arise that may have to be borne by the patient. It is therefore worth taking a close look at which costs are covered and, if necessary, taking out additional travel insurance. Suva also points out a number of basic prevention tips, to prepare as well as possible for winter sports.
Source: Suva
