What you need to know about fracture cover

Fracture cover might be an insurance policy you’ve never heard of before. And you may think you don’t need it because of your age. But it could be useful to you.

Official figures show that those over the age of 50 are most likely to need treatment for fractures. But that doesn’t mean young people should dismiss the possibility of ending up with these painful injuries.

According to the National Institutes of Health, almost a quarter of men under the age of 45 are hospitalised due to fractures. The same age group of females is recorded at almost 12%

Government figures show that more than half a million fractures are dealt with each year. The most common type affects the spine, wrist and hip. While those over 50 are at particular risk, due to bones becoming weaker, younger people are not immune.

So while you might think a fracture is highly unlikely, the evidence is clear that fractures can happen to anyone at any age.

What is fracture cover?

Fracture cover is an income protection policy that can be added to your current protection. If you want to know more about income protection, we’ve looked at this before.

Should you be in the unfortunate position of having an accident that leads to a broken bone, you could be eligible for a payment of up to £6,000. The policy is provided by insurance company Aviva.

The policy covers 18 types of bone fractures. The most common claims made are wrist (14%) and hand (13%). Arm and ankle claims account for 11% of claims each.

According to the company, it’s no surprise that people who work within manual occupations are most likely to have fractures. That includes builders, warehouse workers and delivery drivers.

Fracture cover is offered as an add-on to life insurance and income protection policies offered by the company. It costs an additional £4 a month.

Do you need fracture cover?

If a fracture means you can’t work, it might affect your income depending on the sickness pay your employer offers. It might mean your income reduces. So any extra financial help is useful.

According to BUPA, a broken bone in your finger or hand can take a few weeks to heal. But broken legs can take months. The NHS says it could take up 6 to 12 weeks depending on age and general health.

Having fracture cover among your income protection will give you some financial help.

For example, with Aviva’s cover you could receive up to £2,000 for a break in your hand. And for more serious fractures, such as a broken upper or lower leg, the maximum payout of £6,000.

As with any insurance policies, there are exemptions. For example, if the fracture is the result of playing rugby, mountain biking or riding a horse, there will be no payout.

What should I do next?

Fracture cover is not available on comparison websites. So, if you would like the added income protection that fracture cover offers, then speak to our team for advice.

• As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply