You hit the wall hard. You have a broken arm and a concussion. The ambulance takes you to the trauma center. A month later, your health insurance provider (Blue Cross/Aetna/United) denies the $40,000 bill because the injury occurred during a “hazardous activity” or “organized motoring contest.”
Key Takeaways
- Health Insurance Gaps: Many standard health plans exclude injuries sustained in racing or high-risk activities.
- “Hazardous Hobby” Exclusion: Check your benefit booklet. If it lists “motorized racing,” you might be uncovered.
- Track Insurance is for the CAR: Standard track policies (Hagerty, Lockton) cover the car, not your body.
- You need Medical Benefits: You must look for “Medical Payments” coverage or a specific personal accident policy.
The “Why” (The Trap): The Activity Exclusion
Your health insurance works for the flu or falling off a ladder. But many policies have fine print regarding “Extreme Sports.”
The Clause:
“Benefits are not payable for injuries resulting from participation in any form of motorized racing, speed contest, or performance driving.”
If the ambulance notes say “picked up from Racetrack,” the claims algorithm will flag it.
The Investigation: Where to find medical coverage?
Track insurance for the car usually includes very little medical coverage (maybe $5,000 max). That won’t cover a helicopter ride.
Supplemental Coverage (K&K Insurance, etc.)
- Product: Personal Accident Insurance for Drivers.
- Coverage: Covers out-of-pocket medical costs and disability if you are hurt on track.
- Cost: Reasonable annual rates.
Reviewing the “Car” Policy Medical Limits
- Lockton/Hagerty: They might offer “Medical Payments” (MedPay) as an add-on. This is usually small (
1k−1k−5k). It is meant for the ambulance co-pay, not surgery.
Comparison Table: Medical Coverage Sources
| Source | Coverage for Track Injury | Typical Limit |
| Health Insurance | CHECK POLICY (Risk of Denial) | Deductible applies |
| Track Car Policy | Minimal / None | $0 – $5,000 |
| Supplemental Accident Ins. | High Coverage | $50k – $500k |
[IMAGE: Screenshot of a health insurance benefits booklet highlighting “Exclusions: Motorized Racing”]
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Call Your Health Insurer: Do not guess. Call the number on the back of your card. Ask: “Am I covered if I am injured during a Driver Education event on a racetrack?” Record the call.
- Buy Supplemental Insurance: If the answer is “No” or “Maybe,” buy a specific accident policy for racers.
- Check Life Insurance: While you are at it, check your Life Insurance. Many life policies explicitly exclude death in a race car. You may need an accidental death rider.
- Carry Your Info: Put your medical insurance info and emergency contacts in your helmet bag or on a card in the car.
FAQ
Does the track’s insurance cover me?
Generally, NO. The track’s insurance protects the track from lawsuits. It does not pay your medical bills unless the track was negligent (e.g., a flag tower fell on you).
What about my passenger?
If you injure a passenger, they might sue you. Liability coverage on your track policy is essential here.