Buying DAN (Divers Alert Network) insurance is widely considered a standard part of responsible diving. Because scuba diving is often classified as an “extreme sport,” traditional health insurance and standard travel policies frequently exclude coverage for diving-related injuries.

Here are ten key reasons to have a DAN dive accident insurance policy:

1. Specialized Hyperbaric Coverage: Standard medical insurance often excludes hyperbaric chamber treatments, which are essential for treating decompression sickness (the “bends”). These sessions can cost tens of thousands of dollars.

2. Emergency Medical Evacuation: DAN membership includes up to $150,000 in emergency medical transportation (and higher on some plans) to move you from remote dive sites to the nearest appropriate medical facility.

3. 24/7 Emergency Hotline: You get immediate access to medical professionals who specialize in dive medicine, available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

4. Secondary Coverage for Gaps: Most DAN plans pay 100% of eligible medical expenses that your primary insurance doesn’t cover, including deductibles and co-pays.

5. Worldwide Recognition: DAN is the most recognized name in dive safety globally. Many dive operators and remote medical facilities will prioritize care when they see a DAN insurance card.

6. Coverage for Non-Diving Emergencies: Higher-tier plans like the Guardian or Preferred plans often provide coverage for other non-diving accidents when you are traveling outside your home country.

7. Equipment Protection: If your scuba gear is lost or damaged during a covered diving accident, certain DAN plans provide funds to help replace it.

8. Travel and Hospitality Assistance: If a diving accident forces you to stay longer than planned, some plans cover extra transportation and accommodation costs for you and a companion.

9. Disability and AD&D Benefits: Policies often include Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) and permanent disability coverage specifically for diving-related incidents.

10. Supporting Global Dive Safety: Your premiums help fund scientific research, safety education, and the maintenance of emergency hotlines that benefit the entire diving community.