|
|
Travel Insurance Tips |
By:
UK Insurance Index |
|
|
Its often an after thought when booking a trip but good Travel
Insurance can be a life saver if things go wrong, especially if
you're thousands of miles away from home.
At the very least a good travel insurance policy buys you a
little extra peace of mind. Or is it a false sense of security?
With travel insurance companies estimating that up to 10% of
claims are fraudulent, how can you be sure that any legitimate
claim you make gets paid?
TIP 1 - Take a good look before you buy
You might assume that there's little difference between most
travel insurance policies. In reality, the quality of cover and
excesses you'll have to pay can vary substantially. This might
not be a concern now but will be crucial should you make a claim.
Many disputes arise because people think they're covered but
discover too late that they're never were.
So before you simply opt for the cheapest premium, take a closer
look and check that you're comparing like with like. In
particular, be sure to look at:
*The excess: confirm how much of any claim you would have to
pay. If the excess is £50 per item that means you have to pay
the first £50 of any claim for each item you are claiming for.
*The maximum you claim for individual items.
*What you're not covered for such as pre-existing medical
conditions.
*The level of medical protection you have, particularly in
countries like the USA where medical costs can be higher.
*If you're covered for lost or stolen cash and how much.
*If loss is covered as well as theft.
*If 24-hour emergency assistance is included or optional.
A comprehensive list of insurers can be found in the Travel Insurance Index.
TIP 2 - Take a copy policy document with you
A good travel insurance policy document will confirm the
procedures to follow in the event of a claim, what you are
covered for and who to call in an emergency.
TIP 3 - Disclose any medical conditions
Like any insurance policy, travel insurance is a contract
between you and the insurer based upon "utmost good faith". This
requires you to disclose anything that may affect the acceptance
or terms of a policy, any exclusions or its price.
When completing the application form, be open and honest about
your medical history and any activities you're likely to take
part in, whether you think they're risky or not. If in doubt
declare it anyway and if possible keep a copy of the form.
TIP 4 - Document your valuable possessions
Take photo's and keep receipts for expensive items such as
jewellery, cameras and designer clothing which you plan to take
with you on holiday.
TIP 5 - Report thefts or losses immediately
Any losses or thefts should be reported immediately to the local
police. Get an accident report number or similar documentary
proof that you've officially reported the loss and if you're on
a package holiday, again quickly report the situation to the
hotel or travel company rep.
If your bag is lost, stolen or damaged at the airport, report it
immediately and get a receipt from the airline or baggage
handler.
TIP 6 - Be prepared for medical claims
Previous E111 forms have now been replaced by the European
Health Insurance Card which entitles the holder to free medical
treatment within Europe equivalent to that available on the NHS.
Application forms are available from Post Offices and should be
submitted at least ten days before you travel.
Before you leave check your policy document or contact the
insurer to confirm what precise steps your insurance company
requires you to take in a medical emergency.
TIP 7 - When you get home
If you intend to make a claim, check the small print and contact
your insurer. Gather and submit all supporting documentation via
recorded delivery (keeping copies for yourself) as evidence of
your claim. Submit receipts, photographs and copies of any
police or medical reports you have received.
Makes sure you keep copies all correspondence and make detailed
records of every phone call, including the name of the person
you spoke with and the time of your call.
TIP 8 - If your claim is refused?
Your claim could be rejected for many reasons. For example most
policies won't cover alcohol-related incidents and like all
insurance you must take 'reasonable' care of your belongings.
The first step is to appeal against the decision providing
detailed and specific points for your arguement backed up by any
additional evidence. If you feel you have been poorly treated
you can refer your case to the Financial Ombudsman Service who
will assess your claim independently.
|
|
Article Source: http://www.PopularArticles.com/article1108.html |
Article: Travel Insurance Tips
Author: UK Insurance Index
Total Views: 49
Word Count: 705
Category:
Home /
Travel
|
|
|
|
|
|
Categories 
