How do you choose the right NNW/OC Insurance for a student?

In one of my previous articles about school insurance, I mentioned that such insurance can be valid until the age of 26 if the person continues their education.

Student years are a time of dynamic changes, intensive learning, and the first steps into adulthood. During this period, it's important to take care of your safety, especially in the context of personal accident insurance (NNW) and civil liability insurance (OC). Below, you'll find a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed choice when selecting the right insurance.

What is NNW and OC Insurance?

NNW (Personal Accident Insurance) is a policy that provides financial protection in the event of an injury resulting from an accident. It covers various situations such as fractures, sprains, cuts, or burns, and operates 24/7 worldwide.

OC (Civil Liability Insurance) protects against the financial consequences of damages caused to third parties. If a student unintentionally causes damage, for example, by damaging equipment belonging to an employer during an internship, the OC policy will cover the cost of repairs or purchasing new equipment.

Why Invest in NNW Insurance?

Although NNW insurance for students is not mandatory, having it can be extremely beneficial. An accident can happen at the least expected moment, and a proper policy will provide financial support during difficult times. Additionally, many employers require interns to have NNW and OC insurance.

Who Should Consider NNW and OC Insurance?

NNW and OC insurance is designed for individuals under the age of 67, including students, doctoral students, and attendees of educational institutions. An NNW policy protects against the consequences of accidents such as fractures, sprains, cuts, or burns. It covers the entire world and operates 24/7.

Student Civil Liability During Internships

Professional internships are an integral part of studies, allowing students to gain valuable experience. Employers increasingly require interns to have OC insurance. This insurance covers damages unintentionally caused by the student during internships, at the university, and in private life.

Examples of situations where student OC insurance would apply:

• Accidentally breaking equipment belonging to the employer.
• Damaging laboratory instruments during classes at the university.
• Destroying a friend's phone during a social gathering.

The OC policy covers damage costs up to a specified insured sum, which can range from 5,000 PLN to 25,000 PLN.

The Compensation Process and Treatment Costs

Example 1: Ankle SprainDuring a soccer practice, you suffer an ankle sprain. After visiting the emergency room, you are referred to an orthopedic specialist and prescribed rehabilitation. The total cost of treatment may amount to approximately 1,300 PLN. Compensation will cover treatment costs and permanent damage, totaling around 1,800 PLN.

Example 2: Forearm FractureA fall during gymnastics results in a forearm fracture. The treatment process, including surgeon visits, rehabilitation, and purchasing a brace, may cost around 2,100 PLN. Compensation would be approximately 4,100 PLN, considering both treatment costs and permanent damage.

Example 3: Laboratory BurnDuring a laboratory session, a student accidentally burns their hand with a hot chemical substance. This incident requires an emergency room visit, wound treatment, and specialist medical care. The treatment cost amounted to about 1,500 PLN. NNW insurance covered both treatment and rehabilitation costs, resulting in a total compensation of 2,000 PLN.

The Key Role of Documentation

Proper documentation is essential to obtain compensation. It's necessary to gather all required documents, such as the emergency room report, medical history, and invoices for specialist visits and rehabilitation.

The Cost of Student OC Insurance

NNW insurance for students is relatively inexpensive. The premium for a basic insurance option is around 47 PLN per year, with an insured sum of 24,000 PLN. Higher insured sums involve higher premiums but provide greater financial support in the event of an accident.

Exclusions from Insurance Coverage

Basic insurance coverage does not include events resulting from professional sports activities or extreme sports, such as mountaineering or bungee jumping. Before signing a contract, it’s essential to thoroughly review the insurance terms. Here are some situations not covered by a basic policy:

• Professional sports: Regular participation in sports competitions or intensive training that increases the risk of injury.
• Extreme sports: Activities such as mountaineering, skydiving, bungee jumping, deep-sea diving, or motor sports.
• Warfare and riots: Events resulting from warfare, riots, or acts of terrorism.
• Intentional acts: Injuries resulting from intentional actions or committing a crime by the insured.
• Influence of alcohol or drugs: Damages caused under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other intoxicating substances.

If you want to discuss insurance during your studies or for internships, contact me, and we’ll find the most suitable option.‍