Common Reasons Why Claims Are Being Rejected By Travel Insurers

16 Apr 2014 by Olga Brighton

Travel Insurance Tips

When travelling abroad it is all too easy to become complacent with your usual attitude towards personal safety and that of your belongings, this may lead to an accident or theft of you belongings and a subsequent claim on your travel insurance policy.

Holiday makers need to be careful of the restrictions on their travel insurance policy because for those who are unfortunate to make a claim the disappointment of a ruined holiday can be compounded by the refusal of an insurer to pay a claim.

Claim rejection reasons

The most common reason why a travel insurer has insurance claims rejected is due to the policy holder being hopelessly intoxicated or under the influence of drugs when the accident or injury occurred, meaning most insurance policies would not pay for the cost of subsequent medical and associated costs, these would include cover for missed flights home and repatriation.

Non-declaration of pre-existing medical conditions still remains an important problem faced by insurers, if you have received treatment or are taking prescribed drugs or medication for a known medical condition these must be declared at time of purchase for the insurer to confirm acceptance of a claim made relating to these condition whilst travelling or your holiday being cancelled due to ill health relating to a known medical condition at time of purchase.

Read also: 3 Essential Facts About Vaccinations And Travel Insurance

Keeping up to date on the necessary vaccinations is also a must for exotic traveller, please check with FOC's advice for current and up to date information and any restrictions of travel to certain countries.

Unattended baggage and personal items is always a problem for insurers, items not being locked securely in the hotels safe or left unattended at any time are usually not covered under the policy. You would not leave your mobile phone or expensive camera unattended at any time or tucked away under a towel whilst in at home so why do we feel that is ok to do so on holiday when the risk’s of theft are understandably higher on a packed beach or in a local bar or restaurant ? Getting a police report is a must to validate any loss or theft claim that is going to be made under the Insurance.

Travel insurance skydiving

Taking part in an uninsured sport or hazardous pursuit at the time of the accident or injury is also common, Skydiving or quad biking may not be covered as standard on many policies and consumers are encouraged to look closely and be aware of what sports are not include as standard on their policy and seek to additional cover where possible.

Holiday makers need to be careful of the restrictions on their travel insurance policy, just take a few minutes understanding the do's and dont's of your policy because for those who are unfortunate to make a claim the disappointment of a ruined holiday can be compounded by the refusal of an Insurer to pay a claim.

Globelink Travel Insurance is a partner in the FCO’s Know Before You Go scheme, helping Brits travel abroad more safely.

Read also: When Will Travel Insurance Cancellation Cover Pay Out?

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