Types of Insurance Coverage for High School Sports

High school sports allow young athletes to be active and improve their physical health and wellness while helping them develop various life skills, including teamwork, sportsmanship and leadership. Given these benefits, it’s no surprise these programs and leagues are so popular across the United States. However, schools and other organizations involved in high school athletics must also account for significant risks and exposures. Accidents and other incidents on and off the field may be inevitable, potentially leading to costly financial losses for organizations.  

What Types of Insurance Are Needed for High School Sports? 

There is typically no single insurance policy capable of providing adequate coverage for all risks and exposures involved in high school sports. Organizations in charge of teams, leagues and programs should consult with a qualified insurance professional, such as those at Bene-Marc Inc., to compose a suitable insurance portfolio capable of providing financial protection for various incidents. 

Although the exact contents of an adequate insurance package may vary, the following types of coverage may be advisable investments: 

• General liability insurance—This coverage may help pay for losses accrued by third parties (e.g., fans, guests and passersby) from incidents for which an organization or school was responsible, including medical bills and property damage.
• Commercial property insurance—If an organization’s physical assets, including buildings, equipment, electronics and inventory, are damaged by a covered incident, this type of insurance may help pay for losses.
• Accidental medical expense insurance—This type of insurance may provide financial assistance for the medical bills of an athlete injured while participating in high school sports.
• Accidental death and dismemberment insurance—This coverage can insulate policyholders from financial losses if a participant dies or develops a disability due to a sports-related incident.
• Workers’ compensation insurance—If an employee, such as a coach, referee or scorekeeper, is injured on the job or develops a work-related illness, this coverage can help pay for their medical bills and other financial losses.
• Abuse liability insurance—This coverage may help pay for legal costs and other damages if a participant claims that a coach, trainer or other party involved with the organization committed physical, emotional or sexual abuse.
• Employment practices liability insurance—This type of insurance may provide financial assistance if a program or school is accused of wrongful treatment of employees, including allegations of discrimination, wrongful termination or harassment. 

While the aforementioned types of coverage may be advisable for most organizations, policyholders should also analyze their operations to identify any additional insurance needs. For example, commercial auto insurance may be necessary if operations regularly include using vehicles to transport athletes, coaches and other personnel. 

Why Is Insurance Needed for High School Sports? 

Injuries, accidents and other incidents could all incur significant losses for athletes, coaches and organizers involved in high school sports. Even the most elite athletes and coaches may eventually make a mistake. Similarly, accidents and errors could occur regardless of how experienced and diligent a league or other high school sports program is in curbing risks and exposures. Any incident could have significant financial ramifications for various parties, meaning adequate insurance should be considered a top priority. 

Get the Right Coverage 

The insurance professionals at Bene-Marc Inc. have specialized experience in helping athletic organizations at all levels acquire and maintain suitable coverage portfolios. Our agents will draw on this extensive knowledge to analyze schools’ circumstances and identify insurance needs. Visit our website or call 800-247-1734 to learn more.  
 

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.