Terrorism is a global concern right now. We have had the attacks in Paris, Beirut, Tunisia and now Brussels. While we have had a lot of travelers voicing their concerns, it often has little to do with canceling their trip and more to do with what coverage travel insurance can provide when facing terrorism.
Here are 4 things about terrorism and travel insurance you probably didn't know.
1. Cancellation is a possibility
Most travel insurance companies will allow for travelers to cancel their trip if a terrorist attack occurs in a city they are traveling to, through or from. If Paris was simply the location of a layover, a traveler could still be eligible for cancellation.
Usually the attack must have occurred within 30 days of departure and travelers must have the policy before the attack took place.
Be careful when choosing your policy, some companies do not allow for cancellation if your supplier allows a substitute itinerary, regardless if you are afraid to travel.
2. Emergency assistance is most likely provided
During 9/11, it was almost impossible to get out of the city. Phone lines were down and cell phones weren't working. Imagine being in a country while all of this is happening, and you don't speak the language.
Having access to emergency assistance through your travel insurance company can make an incredible difference. Emergency assistance companies provide years of knowledge and training for these exact instances.
3. Evacuation is an option
There are times where a terrorist incident can cause severe instability within a nation. If you are traveling, and an event like this occurs, it may be necessary for you to have a non-medical evacuation. If that is the case, the emergency assistance you are provided can assist in making the arrangements, while travel insurance can cover the costs.
There have been instances in the past where this has saved lives. We saw it in Egypt during political unrest and Nepal during the earthquakes.
4. Medical expenses are covered
If you are injured and need medical treatment, travel insurance will be able to cover the costs. This will obviously be dependent on your plan and benefit limit.
If you were looking to cut costs, and bypass having primary medical coverage, then you would miss out on this option and probably pay expenses out of pocket. Some insurance policies may cover $50,000 while other may cover $100,000 in medical expenses. Be sure to read your policy and know your benefit limit before purchasing.
Depending on the company you choose, travel insurance can provide access to emergency assistance, coverage for medical expenses and more. Always be sure to understand your benefits and policy before traveling and call your customer service representative with any questions.
By Amanda Hand on Mar 25, 2016 Travel Safe
Here are 4 things about terrorism and travel insurance you probably didn't know.
1. Cancellation is a possibility
Most travel insurance companies will allow for travelers to cancel their trip if a terrorist attack occurs in a city they are traveling to, through or from. If Paris was simply the location of a layover, a traveler could still be eligible for cancellation.
Usually the attack must have occurred within 30 days of departure and travelers must have the policy before the attack took place.
Be careful when choosing your policy, some companies do not allow for cancellation if your supplier allows a substitute itinerary, regardless if you are afraid to travel.
2. Emergency assistance is most likely provided
During 9/11, it was almost impossible to get out of the city. Phone lines were down and cell phones weren't working. Imagine being in a country while all of this is happening, and you don't speak the language.
Having access to emergency assistance through your travel insurance company can make an incredible difference. Emergency assistance companies provide years of knowledge and training for these exact instances.
3. Evacuation is an option
There are times where a terrorist incident can cause severe instability within a nation. If you are traveling, and an event like this occurs, it may be necessary for you to have a non-medical evacuation. If that is the case, the emergency assistance you are provided can assist in making the arrangements, while travel insurance can cover the costs.
There have been instances in the past where this has saved lives. We saw it in Egypt during political unrest and Nepal during the earthquakes.
4. Medical expenses are covered
If you are injured and need medical treatment, travel insurance will be able to cover the costs. This will obviously be dependent on your plan and benefit limit.
If you were looking to cut costs, and bypass having primary medical coverage, then you would miss out on this option and probably pay expenses out of pocket. Some insurance policies may cover $50,000 while other may cover $100,000 in medical expenses. Be sure to read your policy and know your benefit limit before purchasing.
Depending on the company you choose, travel insurance can provide access to emergency assistance, coverage for medical expenses and more. Always be sure to understand your benefits and policy before traveling and call your customer service representative with any questions.
By Amanda Hand on Mar 25, 2016 Travel Safe