It’s official, winter has arrived to farms across the country. Although wet weather has put a stop to most of the field work for the season, it’s quite another story around the yard.

While the draw of a cosy fire may be tempting, it’s full steam ahead with the preparation and cleaning of sheds, dosing and feeding of livestock and maintenance of machinery – just some of the many seasonal tasks that invariably lead to an increased workload.

Unfortunately, this time of year can also be one where farmers find themselves at increased risk of accident or illness. Should the unexpected happen, are you prepared?

Are you covered?

As you read this, you may believe you are already adequately covered. Indeed, many farmers have liability cover to protect them – but only in the event where there is an injury to a third party (public liability) or a person working for them (employer’s liability) on the farm.

Frequently, they fail to put cover on the main labour provider, the most valuable asset on the farm – themselves – often only to find out when it’s too late. Needless to say, a situation like this can be hugely stressful and have significant financial repercussions.

While it’s not something we like to think about, we would strongly encourage you to consider the wider implications of finding yourself unable to work due to an accident or illness.

What impact would this have on you, your family and farm? Are there steps you can take to protect your livelihood should the unlikely arise? From an insurance perspective, these are some of the most valuable questions you can ask yourself ahead of the winter season.

A first in the Irish market

It’s not all doom and gloom, however. The good news is that AXA Farm Insurance has a unique offering to assist farmers should the unexpected happen:

Hospitalisation: A first in the Irish farm insurance market, cover includes provision for payment of a weekly benefit for hospitalisation (typically €350 or €700 per week depending on cover selected) payable from the fifth day in hospital up to a maximum of 12 weeks. Please note Covid 19 related illness is excluded;
Personal accident: Benefits can be provided for a range of cases where normal working is inhibited, arising from a valid claim under the terms of the policy;
Personalised cover: There are three cover options to choose from, meaning a range of cover and premiums to suit your specific needs.

Ready to experience the peace of mind that comes with AXA Farm Insurance? For further information on the above, or on AXA Smart Farm Insurance, visit: axa.ie/farm.

Alternatively, call our Farm Team in Athlone on: 0906-435070; or one of our agri regional development managers – Barry Clarke: 087-143-7440; or Brian Prout: 087-938-7004.

AXA Insurance dac is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.