Rescue mission in the Alps: Who pays the high salvage costs?

Rescue mission in the Alps: Who pays the high salvage costs?

In the picturesque Alps of Austria, not only dreamlike slopes, but also potential financial pitfalls for winter sports enthusiasts. Every year, thousands are injured in skiing and snowboarding or tobogganing, and while the injuries are painful, the cost of rescue can accept dramatic proportions. As the NÖN , the costs for a helicopter rescue can quickly exceed 4,000 euros. The Austrian Health Insurance Fund (ÖGK) does not cover these costs when it comes to sports accidents in the alpine terrain, which means that those affected have to dig deep into their pockets in an emergency.

In order to prevent high costs in an emergency, experts from the Chamber of Labor recommend a comprehensive willingness: membership at the Alpine Club or in the case of mountain rescue and additional accident insurance that covers rescue costs are essential. "It should definitely be ensured that salvage, search and transport costs are included in the insurance," explains Thomas Grünberger, insurance expert at AK. A look at the coverage also shows that regular health insurers only cover costs if medically necessary rescue is in the game. In the event of minor injuries, on the other hand, it can be refused to assume costs, such as Forsbeck explained.

The cost trap rescue

accidents are particularly common in leisure time, where the statutory accident and social security does not step in. This leads to a large cover gap that has so far underestimated many winter athletes. In the worst case, recovery from rescue dog relays or a multi -day rescue operation can cause damage sums in a five -digit amount. A helicopter operation alone can cost between 4,000 and 5,000 euros. Few worry about the financial consequences that can favor unforeseen disability. Warning experts: Financial protection against such situations is essential and should not be neglected when planning the next skiing holiday.