Details Matter When Insuring Schools with High-Contact Sports
The short answer
If your school, college or university offers high-contact sports like football, soccer, or lacrosse, it’s essential to understand the details of your insurance policy—especially potential...
Many insurance policies carried by Georgia schools exclude coverage for traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) sustained during high-contact sports like football, soccer, and lacrosse. If your ministry’s school has one of these exclusions, a single concussion claim could mean uncovered medical expenses, legal fees, and serious financial exposure. Understanding exactly what your policy does and does not cover is the first step toward closing that gap.
What to Watch for in Insurance Policies
Some insurance policies exclude coverage for injuries related to:
- Athletic Activities: Including tryouts, practices, games, and training sessions.
- Participants: Typically defined as students actively engaged in sports (excluding spectators, coaches, or referees).
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Conditions such as concussions, chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), and other neurological issues.
If your policy has these exclusions, your school may not be covered for medical expenses, legal fees, or liability claims related to TBIs.
Questions to Ask Your Insurance Provider
To ensure your school is protected, discuss the following with your insurance agent or provider:
- **Are TBIs Excluded?**Does the policy exclude coverage for TBIs in high-contact sports? If so, are there options for separate accident or sports liability policies?
- **Coverage for Coaches and Staff:**Does the policy provide liability coverage for coaches, referees, or other staff involved in TBI-related incidents?
- **Additional Coverage Options:**Are there policies like participant accident insurance or catastrophic injury coverage available? What are the costs and coverage limits?
- **Risk Management Requirements:**Does the insurer require specific safety protocols (e.g., concussion guidelines, helmet standards, or player safety training) for broader coverage?
- **Claims History:**Can your insurance provider share common claims scenarios or trends from schools with similar athletic programs?
Why Understanding Exclusions Matters
Exclusions can lead to significant out-of-pocket expenses for legal fees, medical bills, or settlements related to TBI claims. They also present a risk of long-lasting reputational damage if incidents are not handled properly. Ensuring you have the right coverage is critical to protecting your students, staff, and institution.
Work with a Specialized Insurance Partner
managing insurance for educational institutions with athletic programs can be complex. working with a provider like MinistrySure, which specializes in insuring schools, churches, and non-profits, helps ensure:
- Gaps in Coverage Are Identified: Potential risks are uncovered and addressed.
- coverage designed for your ministry: Policies are customized to meet your school’s unique needs.
- Expert Advocacy: You get the best terms and conditions for your coverage.
Protect Your School by Knowing the Details
High-contact sports offer great value to students but come with significant risks. By understanding potential exclusions, asking the right questions, and working with a specialized partner like MinistrySure for your private and Christian school insurance, you can ensure your school is comprehensively protected.
For assistance in reviewing your school’s insurance policies, contact MinistrySure today.