Alcohol And Travel Insurance + Worldcare

The topic of alcohol in relation to travel insurance has been in the news recently, with regard to travel insurers turning down claims when the evidence of excess alcohol has been verified. The majority of travel insurance policies exclude cover for events that happen after excessive alcohol consumption, however, as with all insurance cases, it is up to an insurer to show that an exclusion may apply, not for their customer to show that it doesn't. Tourists unlucky enough to have an accident while on holiday, risk having their insurance claim turned down if they have had a few drinks, and should always read the small print which should make clear when alcohol would make a claim invalid. A spokesman for the Association of British Insurers said that insurers did not expect holidaymakers to make a vow of temperance, but an exclusion clause was justified if people deliberately put themselves directly at risk.

Zoe Macfarlane, the E-Commerce Sales & Marketing Manager of Allianz Global Assistance advises that Worldcare Travel Insurance is underwritten by Allianz Insurance, one of the world’s largest travel insurers, and recommends their Comprehensive policy which provides inclusive travel insurance for persons travelling internationally, including substantial medical, cancellation, luggage and repatriation cover. Regarding serious accidents following the consumption of alcohol they do take into consideration whether alcohol has been consumed in large quantities but their aim is to be fair and reasonable when making any decision.  Zoe says they are aware that people are likely to enjoy a drink whilst they are on holiday and may enjoy a few with a meal but it is when it’s excessive that it’s brought into consideration during the claim decision.

We are also seeing more and more stories in the media today of travellers, particularly young ones, ending up in an ambulance on the way to hospital to be treated for alcohol poisoning. In destinations like the US or Canada, this can obviously be very costly. Unfortunately, the most comprehensive travel policy in the world will not cover alcohol abuse on this scale. Intending travellers are advised to read their policy wording carefully, noting the exclusions in each section to ensure that they understand the cover provided by their insurer.

For further information on these and other travel insurance matters, please visit the website at http://www.worldcare.co.nz