What Insurance Does a Martial Arts School Need and How Much Does It Cost?

Insurance is a crucial aspect of running a martial arts school, yet many owners are unsure about the specifics of coverage and costs. To provide clarity, we spoke with Jennifer Urmston from Sports and Fitness Insurance Corporation (SFIC), who shared insights on the types of insurance martial arts schools need and the potential costs involved.

Understanding the Risks

Imagine this scenario: Your school is thriving with packed classes. A young student rushes to the water fountain, and at the same time, a leadership team member performs a high-speed spinning hook kick. The kick accidentally hits the student, resulting in severe facial injuries. This incident highlights the importance of having proper insurance coverage.

John Graden: "In a situation like this, the financial implications can be significant. The student might require extensive medical treatment, including facial reconstruction. In today’s litigious environment, the family could file lawsuits for medical expenses and pain and suffering."

Jennifer Urmston: "Injuries on your premises, whether minor or severe, lead to medical expenses. A severe case could involve up to $100,000 in medical bills, with lawsuits potentially reaching millions. Insurance helps mitigate these risks."

Common Claims

Jennifer Urmston: "We often encounter claims related to accidental injuries from martial arts moves or falls. Common scenarios include students falling and hitting their heads on objects, which can lead to severe injuries."

John Graden: "Back in the day, martial arts training was more rugged. Today, the focus has shifted to safety, but accidents still occur. It’s crucial to have insurance coverage for all potential risks."

Insurance for Sparring

Jennifer Urmston: "For sparring, it's essential to have clear rules and appropriate safety gear. All participants should sign waivers acknowledging the risks involved. Proper documentation and adherence to safety protocols can protect your school from liability."

John Graden: "What about more intense sparring scenarios, like multiple opponents? Is this covered by standard waivers?"

Jennifer Urmston: "Yes, as long as all participants are aware of the risks and have signed appropriate waivers, you’re covered. Ensuring all participants, including minors, have parental consent is vital."

Addressing Unique Scenarios

John Graden: "What about cases where a student with a pre-existing medical condition participates in class without proper medical clearance?"

Jennifer Urmston: "It’s important to have waivers that state parents are responsible for informing you of any changes in a child’s health. Ensuring medical clearances are up-to-date can help prevent such issues."

SFIC’s Role

Jennifer Urmston: "SFIC has been serving the sports and fitness industry for 30 years, including martial arts schools. We provide comprehensive coverage, including General Liability, Professional Liability, and more. Our goal is to help you stay protected and focus on running your school."

 

Key Insurance Considerations:

  1. Waivers: Ensure that participants (or their parents) sign waivers that acknowledge risks.
  2. Medical Conditions: Require parental responsibility for disclosing any health changes.
  3. Sparring Rules: Have clear, written safety rules and equipment standards.
  4. Risk of Lawsuits: Be prepared for liability beyond medical expenses.

Jennifer Urmston’s Contact Information:

Stay insured and protected to keep your martial arts school running smoothly.