AJA MEMBERSHIP INSURANCE ADJUSTMENT as from 1ST JULY 2010

05-07-2010

 AJA membership has automatically included insurance for riding out and handling racehorses worldwide since 1st July 2007.  Since that time there have been 22 claimants under the scheme, one member claiming twice.  Unfortunately, because of these claims, our insurance premiums have risen year on year, and this year’s premium has been calculated at three times its original cost.  We would not consider canceling our insurance as it is so highly valued by you all but a major change is necessary in order for the AJA to be able to continue providing this cover.

After consultation with our brokers, as from 1st July 2010 any AJA member who is on a licensed trainer or permit holder’s payroll and is eligible for RIABS (Racing Industry Accident Benefit Scheme) will be asked to claim under RIABS.  Members covered by RIABS will be exempt from AJA insurance for riding out.  This will enable the AJA to look after our most vulnerable members when they are injured, ie those between jobs or those self-employed or employed outside racing.  To bring non-RIABS members into line with stable staff, benefits will increase to £200 per week from our current £100 and our excess will be reduced from its current 40 days to 28 days after injury.  

We believe that whilst cover is restricted to those members that are not eligible for RIABS payments, most AJA members will benefit from the policy at some time.  If you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact Sarah Oliver at the AJA.  The good news is that the cost of AJA membership remains unchanged for the time being at £75 for a full year’s subscription.