Ben Nguyen 
Skiing is a beloved winter sport and recreational activity for many Canadians. However, as with any action or extreme sport, there are inherent risks and dangers that come along with skiing. Serious injury and death can occur due to accidents on the slopes. This is why life insurance tailored for skiers is an important consideration for those who regularly participate in the sport.
This guide will provide skiers and their families with a detailed overview of life insurance options available, how they work, tips for purchasing the right policy, and more. Read on to make informed decisions to protect your finances and peace of mind when hitting the slopes.
What is Life Insurance for Skiing?
Life insurance policies designed for skiers provide financial protection and coverage in the event of injury, disability or death that occurs while skiing, snowboarding or participating in other snow sports. As part of life insurance for extreme sports, these specialized policies ensure that those who engage in high-risk winter activities are adequately covered.
Should the policyholder pass away or become seriously injured on the mountain, a payout would be made to the designated beneficiaries to cover any medical bills, lost income, funeral expenses and more.
Skiing life insurance works similarly to regular life insurance but has provisions specifically for accidents and deaths related to winter sports activities. Premiums are typically higher than a standard policy since skiing is considered high risk.
What Types of Life Insurance are there for Skiing?
There are a few main types of life insurance policies available in Canada that can cover skiers and snow sport enthusiasts:
Term Life Insurance for Skiing
Term life insurance for skiing provides pure death benefit protection for a set period of time, typically 10 to 30 years. This can be ideal for skiers who want coverage just for their active years on the slopes.
Premiums will be higher compared to non-skiers of the same age and health status. However, term policies come with the advantage of an affordable premium that locks in for the length of the term.
Payouts from a term life insurance policy would provide financial support to your beneficiaries in the event you pass away in a ski accident during the covered term.
In-depth look: Term Life Insurance
Permanent Life Insurance for Skiing
Permanent life insurance for skiing is meant to last a lifetime. It combines a death benefit with a cash value savings component that grows on a tax-deferred basis.
Some permanent life insurance options include:
The death benefit and cash value elements make permanent policies more expensive than term insurance. However, permanent policies come with guarantees and lifelong coverage that can appeal to skiers looking for durable, long-term financial safety nets.
In-depth look: Permanent life insurance
Accidental Death Insurance
Accidental death, also referred to as accidental death and dismemberment insurance (AD&D), provides a death benefit payout if the policyholder’s death occurs due to a covered accident – such as those that commonly occur while skiing.
These policies only pay out if death is accidental. The cause of death must meet the definition of an accident described in the policy. Accident policies also do not require medical underwriting, which makes approval easier for skiers with health issues.
The payout from AD&D would be crucial financial support for families in the tragic event of a loved one dying in a skiing accident.
Alternatives to Life Insurance for Skiing
Beyond life insurance policies, there are a few other insurance options that skiers may want to consider for financial safety nets:
Ski Insurance
Ski insurance provides coverage for things like ski equipment, trip cancellations, medical treatment, and emergency evacuation. This can provide some protection against financial losses related to ski trips. However, ski insurance will not provide a payout to your beneficiaries in the event of your injury or death.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance for ski vacations covers emergency medical costs, trip cancellations or interruptions, lost baggage and other travel-related mishaps. This can be a cost-effective way to cover some financial risks associated with ski trips and vacations. However, travel insurance will fall short of providing true income replacement in the event of death or disability.
Personal Liability Insurance
Liability insurance covers legal costs if you are sued by another skier who was injured in a collision that was caused by your negligence. While not a replacement for life insurance, liability insurance can cover accidental harm caused to others – providing protection for your assets and future income.
While these alternatives fill certain insurance needs skiers may have, they do not offer the death benefit and income replacement that life insurance specifically provides.
How Does Life Insurance for Skiing Work?
Skiing life insurance works very similarly to traditional life insurance:
- You apply and go through the underwriting process. Insurers will assess your age, health status and skiing activities.
- If approved, you pay ongoing premiums to keep the policy active. Premiums are paid monthly, quarterly or annually.
- The policy and death benefit coverage remains in place for accidents and deaths that occur specifically while skiing or snowboarding.
- If you die while skiing, your chosen beneficiaries will receive a tax-free payout.
- The funds can then be used for funeral costs, daily living expenses, mortgage payments, and any other needs that arise for dependents in your absence.
- You also have the option to add disability income riders to some policies to receive income if injured.
- Policies may cover other snow sports beyond just downhill skiing and snowboarding as well. Read the fine print to see the covered activities.
When tragedy strikes on the slopes, life insurance in Canada can provide essential financial support when you are no longer able to provide income for your family.
See also: Family Life Insurance
When Do You Need Life Insurance for Skiing?
Here are some of the main scenarios where life insurance tailored for skiing may be recommended:
You Regularly Ski During Winter Months
For regular skiers who spend many days hitting the slopes each winter, a life insurance policy with skiing provisions makes sense. The more time you spend skiing, the higher the chances you may need coverage.
You Participate In Risky Activities Like Backcountry Skiing
For extreme skiers who venture into risky backcountry terrain where avalanches are possible, specialized life insurance accounts for the increased danger.
You Have Dependents Who Rely On Your Income
If you have young children, a non-working spouse or aging parents who rely on your income, life insurance coverage gives added reassurance. Your family’s finances will be supported if tragedy occurred.
You Want Coverage For Skiing Injuries
In addition to death benefits, some policies also pay out for severe ski injuries leading to disability. This provides income replacement if you can no longer work.
Your Employer Coverage Is Not Enough
Many Canadians underestimate their life insurance needs. Government and employer policies often only provide a couple of years worth of income, which may not be enough. Supplemental coverage can help close gaps.
Ultimately, skiing life insurance provides peace of mind and financial security for regular snow sports enthusiasts, with people depending on them.
See also: Life Insurance for High Risk Occupations
Pros and Cons of Life Insurance for Skiing
Skiing is an exhilarating sport, but its inherent risks can make finding the right life insurance policy challenging. For skiers, particularly those tackling high-risk slopes or backcountry terrain, securing life insurance for such extreme sports is essential to ensure financial protection. Understanding the advantages and potential drawbacks of life insurance for skiing will help you make an informed decision that aligns with both your adventurous lifestyle and your financial priorities.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Coverage for death while skiing | Added expense on top of regular insurance |
| Income replacement for dependents | Limitations and exclusions apply |
| Protection for dangerous backcountry skiing | Require medical underwriting process |
| Payouts for severe injuries if disabled | Typically higher premiums than regular life insurance |
| Ability to get policies for hazardous hobbies | Charges more for riskier activities |
| Add-on disability coverage available | Beneficiaries must provide proof of skiing death |
| Peace of mind for family while skiing | Lower coverage limits for extreme skiers |
What is the Cost of Life Insurance for Skiing?
The cost of life insurance coverage for skiers can vary greatly depending on a number of factors:
- Age – Older skiers will pay higher premiums than younger applicants
- Health status – Any pre-existing medical conditions will increase rates
(More on this topic: Life Insurance with Pre-Existing Conditions) - Type of policy – Permanent insurance costs more than term insurance
- Amount of coverage – Higher death benefit amounts equal higher premiums
- Risk level – Backcountry skiing costs more than resort skiing
- Frequency you ski – Skiing every weekend costs more than occasional ski trips
- Insurance company – Each insurer prices policies differently
For an accurate quote, speaking with an insurance advisor and providing details is best. Expect to pay 10% to 50% or more compared to regular non-skiing life insurance depending on your personal scenario and risk level.
Policies that incorporate disability payouts for ski injuries will also cost more than basic death benefit life insurance. But this added coverage may be worth the extra premium investment for avid skiers.
Compare Life Insurance Products from Top Providers
When shopping for life insurance policies for skiing, be sure to compare options from some of Canada’s top life insurance providers:
Sun Life offers term and permanent life insurance options with premiums starting from $25 monthly.
Manulife features skiing life insurance enhanced with potential disability benefits.
RBC Insurance provides customized quotes for life insurance tailored to skiers and other recreational activities.
BMO Insurance offers a Ski & Snowboarding optional benefit with payouts for injuries and death while skiing.
Canada Protection Plan specializes in high-risk lifestyle insurance, such as skiing and extreme sports coverage.
Work with an independent life insurance broker to instantly compare quotes across providers. This ensures you are matched with the best rates and coverage for your specific needs as a skier.
Who Needs Life Insurance for Skiing?
There are certain segments of Canadians who can really benefit from getting specialized life insurance policies for skiing:
Frequent Skiers
Whether skiing is your main winter hobby or you are an avid ski bum always in search of fresh powder, frequent time spent skiing warrants proper financial protection.
Ski Patrollers & Resort Staff
Those who work on ski hills surrounded by the public each day may opt for coverage to protect their families.
Competitive Skiers
From teenagers in ski academies to Olympic athletes, competitive skiers can get coverage for training, races, and elimination runs where accidents happen.
Backcountry & Extreme Skiers
For those chasing the adrenaline rush in high avalanche risk areas, coverage is key. Underwriters can provide policies even for dangerous ski activities.
Travelling Skiers
Getting coverage that includes ski trips and holidays across different mountain ranges gives peace of mind while far from home.
Ultimately, skiers with dependents relying on their financial support will benefit most from life insurance safeguards.
Tips for Purchasing Life Insurance for Skiing
Follow these best practices when shopping for and purchasing life insurance coverage as a skier:
- Disclose your skiing activities upfront when applying. Failing to share material facts could risk a denied claim.
- Ask about policy options that include disability coverage and payouts for injuries.
- Take advantage of group plan rates from ski clubs, associations and travel groups when available.
- Compare quotes from at least 3 top providers to find the best rates.
- Consider specialty insurers with experience covering higher-risk hobbies and sports.
- Look for policies that cover skiing worldwide since you may travel to different mountains.
- Review the fine print for exclusions, limitations and all covered winter activities.
- If declined, ask about guaranteed issue life insurance, which requires no medical underwriting.
- Work with an independent life insurance broker who can shop multiple markets for you.
Following these tips helps secure tailored and properly underwritten skiing life insurance protection.
Where To Buy Life Insurance for Skiing?
Skiers have a few options to purchase specialty life insurance policies:
Independent Insurance Brokers
Brokers have access to policies from a large number of insurance carriers. This gives you choice to find coverage and competitive pricing. Brokers like Lifebuzz can even instantly compare quotes online.
Direct Insurance Companies
Major life insurance companies in Canada like Manulife and Sun Life may sell skiing policies directly. However, they will only offer their own products rather than the whole marketplace.
Ski & Snowboard Clubs
Some local clubs may have group insurance plans or partnerships available to members that package discounted life insurance with membership.
For the best customized advice on policy options, independent brokers are your best bet. An experienced brokerage will search all options and negotiate the ideal coverage for your needs as a skier.
How To Claim Life Insurance for Skiing Accidents?
In the tragic event of death while skiing, beneficiaries will need to file a claim with the life insurance company by following these steps:
- Contact the insurance company immediately to start the claims process. Most have 24/7 emergency claim phone numbers.
- Submit an official death certificate showing the cause of death. The certificate must state that the death occurred while skiing.
- Provide additional evidence, such as lift ticket receipts, like proof you were skiing that day.
- If required, the insurer may request other documentation like accident reports, medical records and autopsy reports.
- Work collaboratively with the insurer’s claims department to provide information demonstrating death resulting from a ski accident.
- The insurance company will investigate and verify the claim before approving and issuing the payout.
- If your claim is denied, immediately contact your insurance broker for assistance in appealing the decision.
- Payouts are typically made within 1-2 weeks of the claim being approved.
- The insurer will support you or your beneficiaries throughout the entire process to settle the claim in a timely manner.
We offer valuable guides on life insurance for extreme sports enthusiasts, including motorcycle racing, rock climbing, bungee jumping, race car driving, and more. Our specialized advice provides tips to get coverage without paying premium prices. Learn strategies to find budget-friendly policies for your high-risk hobbies. With our guides tailored for thrill-seekers, you can secure affordable life insurance and keep pursuing your passion :
- Life Insurance for for Motorcycle Racing
- Life Insurance for Rock Climbers
- Life Insurance for Race Car Drivers
- Life Insurance for Bungee Jumping Enthusiasts
Summary
Skiing can become a dangerous sport where serious injury or death is possible despite all precautions. This makes life insurance coverage an important consideration for regular winter sports participants.
There are affordable term and permanent policy options available from most major Canadian life insurance companies that account for skiing risks.
Avid ski enthusiasts with people who are financially dependent on them gain peace of mind knowing their families will be taken care of if an accident occurs on the mountain.
Compare quotes for your specific situation using online insurance marketplaces or an experienced independent life insurance brokerage. They can match you with specialized skiing insurance protection at competitive rates.
Discuss your coverage amounts, beneficiaries, add-on disability options and all facets of life insurance tailored to your needs as a skier. With proper planning, hit the slopes knowing your finances are protected.
Life Insurance for Skiing FAQs
Q: Can I get life insurance for skiing if I have high blood pressure?
A: Yes, you can get life insurance for skiing with high blood pressure, but your premiums will likely be higher than someone with optimal health.
Q: Is life insurance for skiing more expensive than regular life insurance?
A: Yes, life insurance for skiing costs 10-50% more than regular life insurance since skiing is deemed a higher risk by insurers.
Q: Does life insurance for skiing cover extreme sports like heliskiing?
A: Some insurers exclude extreme skiing sports or charge even higher premiums. Disclose all activities when applying.
Q: What documents do I need to file a life insurance for a skiing claim?
A: You'll need a death certificate, proof that the deceased was skiing that day, accident reports, medical records, and any other evidence requested.
Q: Who needs to consider life insurance for skiing?
A: Frequent skiers, ski patrollers, competitive skiers, backcountry skiers, older skiers, and those with dependents should consider coverage.
Q: Where can I get quotes for life insurance for skiing?
A: You can get quotes from brokers and insurance companies directly or from online marketplaces like PolicyMe and LowestRates.
Q: How long does a life insurance for skiing policy last?
A: Term life insurance for skiing lasts for a set period like 10-30 years. Permanent insurance lasts for life as long as you pay premiums.
Q: Can I get life insurance for skiing from my bank?
A: Some banks like TD, RBC, and BMO may offer life insurance for skiing. You can also buy directly from a broker or insurer.
Q: Will smoking increase my life insurance for skiing premiums?
A: Yes, smokers pay significantly higher premiums for life insurance for skiing, just like with regular life insurance policies.
Q: Does life insurance for skiing cover injuries or just death?
A: Most policies only cover death, but some have add-on riders to provide disability income if injured while skiing.
Q: Can I insure my whole family with one life insurance for skiing policy?
A: Yes, joint "second-to-die" policies cover your whole family under one policy at a lower combined rate.
Q: What activities are excluded from life insurance for skiing policies?
A: Examples of potentially excluded activities are ski jumping, racing, heliskiing, and skiing in areas with extreme avalanche risk.
Q: What is the maximum payout on life insurance for skiing policies?
A: Most insurers offer up to $2 million in coverage, but higher amounts may be available depending on your age and health.
Q: How long does it take to get paid out on life insurance for a skiing claim?
A: Payouts take 1-2 weeks after the claim is approved. Quicker processing happens when you provide documentation upfront.
Article Sources:
To fully appreciate our rigorous adherence to veracity, transparency, and editorial independence, consider reviewing our Editorial Policy at Lifebuzz.ca. It is this dedication that positions us as the ultimate dependable life insurance news outlet in Canada.
