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Get insurance when you travel

28 March 2008

Speeding high over the Costa Rican jungle on a zip line sounded like a thrilling way for Jerry Shirley of Denver to see the lush tropical terrain around the coastal town of Jaco. All went well until he realized during his fifth ride that the leather gloves he was given to grip the cable were a sorry excuse for a braking system.

Unable to slow his rapid descent, Shirley slammed into an attendant and a tree at the bottom of the cable, shattering his left leg and ankle. It took three operations, 15 pins and screws and two plates to put Shirley's leg together again.

The decision to ride the zip line aside, Shirley made at least one smart travel decision: Before leaving the United States, he bought supplemental travel insurance, saving himself as much as $2,000 in out-of-pocket expenses.

Shirley's misadventure is a good reminder for all travelers to check their insurance policy before trying a high-risk sport or outdoor adventure trip. Here's a look at what you should consider:

How do I know if my medical and life insurance policies cover my sport?

Most medical and life insurance policies have an exclusion clause that lists the high-risk sports that are not covered. The list of high-risk

activities varies by provider and is based on actuarial numbers and accident statistics. Motorcycling, sky diving, bungee jumping, white-water rafting, parasailing and spelunking are among the activities that might not be covered.

What do I need to know about getting travel insurance for a high- risk adventure sport?

You don't have to cancel your policy just because it doesn't cover your sport. You can buy supplemental coverage. You can buy year-round supplemental insurance or a short-term policy to cover the time you will be traveling.

Source : http://www.newsday.com/