mike.m-@obra.org

I am looking at a plan to offer the ability to purchase health insurance at

group rates to the OBRA membership. I need some help evaluating it. Is

there anyone on the list who can offer some expertise? I am also interested

in how many people would be interested in this. If you ARE interested

please respond to me DIRECTLY, as opposed to the entire list. The plan that

I am looking at currently is essentially identical to the plan that is

offered by USAC to its membership.



Mike Murray

mike.m-@obra.org

Here is my annual missive. Today at Banana Belt there were several crashes.

At least one rider approached Candi asking about how to get OBRA to pay for

his medical costs related to injuries at the race. OBRA does not do this.

Be realistic people! How could anyone expect that a $20 membership could

provide you with health care coverage? OBRA purchases liability insurance

which is required by road use authorities and venue owners in order to hold

bike races. This is NOT insurance to protect the bike racer. This is

insurance to protect the race organizer, road use authority, venue owner,

sponsors, etc. AGAINST the bike racers who might make liability claims, i.e.

accusations of negligence. If you fall off your bike and get injured the

responsibility for paying for those costs is yours alone. It is essential

that you purchase your own insurance to, at least, cover large medical

losses. Even if you have coverage you should expect that you will have to

pay some costs out of your pocket. It is not reasonable to ask that race

organizers, OBRA, or anyone else foot the bill for your medical expenses.



Mike Murray