Surviving without insurance
Insurance, don’t leave home without it !!
Accidents can happen anywhere, any time, to anyone! Unexpected ill health and accidents; are you properly and adequately insured?
Never a shortage of travellers seeking assistance from GoFundMe and similar companies offering assistance for those stranded in foreign countries. However, for those travelling without insurance and hoping/expecting that others will get them out of trouble, is a foolish gamble that barely warrants consideration.
Here are some sad tales which fall in the “It won’t happen to me” category.
An accident victim in Sri Lanka, whose insurers denied liability because the motorcycle he was riding was 250cc, and his insurance only covered up to 125cc.
An accident victim in Montenegro discovered her insurance covered accident emergency treatment, but not ongoing care and repatriation.
In another unfortunate case, a lady riding a donkey in Thailand suffered a broken back when falling off the animal. Her insurers denied liability because they considered riding donkeys to be a hazardous pursuit, which should have been declared at the time of taking out the insurance.
Also, a British man, without any insurance, fell out of a tree in France and broke his neck.
Lots to argue about with all this, but the underlying fact remains that all insurance policies will include a vast array of reasons to deny liability, maybe outlined in the small print’s exclusions and limitations of cover.
Well before travel, think about what you will be doing while away and inform your insurance provider if you will be horse riding, bungee jumping, mountain climbing, potholing, and not to forget motorcycling, etc. Also, reveal health issues, even from long ago and mention any long-term ongoing medical treatments. Your insurance provider will help and advise on all aspects, including repatriation costs.
In addition, make sure that your insurance will provide cover for expenses for a relative/friend to stay with you while you recover.
Failure to divulge your medical history and that of your travelling family is likely to result in coverage being limited or denied completely!
Purchase insurance that is tailored to meet all your needs
Insurance & Road Safety
Unlike many of our home countries, local motorists may not be insured. Therefore, make sure that you have fully comprehensive insurance. Sadly, it is not uncommon for locals to leave the scene of accidents, to avoid drug/alcohol testing, fines and penalties, etc.
Tip: Make sure, well before leaving your home country, that your travel insurance meets all your needs, especially if you intend to ride a motorcycle or hire a car. Essential cover should include personal injury for you and your passenger, repairs/replacement costs for the vehicle and any third-party claims. Should you have an accident, you may discover that other parties are not insured and/or the hire company’s insurance is woefully inadequate or non-existent.
Although you cannot change local rules and regulations, as foreigners, we can improve our own well-being, and that of other road users, by familiarising ourselves with local road traffic laws, most likely quite different to those in our home countries. Tip: Make sure to familiarise yourself with the vehicle’s controls, particularly if driving on the opposite side of the road to your home country. Spend around 30 minutes driving around quiet back streets to familiarise yourself with the vehicle handling and road signs before heading off into busy areas and main roads.
Short-term visitors/holiday makers, in some countries, may be allowed to drive, for a limited period, with an international driving permit accompanied by their home country license. Obviously, however, if valid only for driving cars, it will be invalid for almost all other vehicle categories, including motorcycles/scooters.
For long-term visa holders, choosing to ride a motorcycle or drive a car, you must obtain a local license by taking a driving test. This will introduce you to local regulations, which may help you avoid accidents and other difficulties.
Very important: Insurance claims will most likely be rejected if you do not have the correct driving license, and/or have any trace of drugs or alcohol in your system, and, for motorcyclists, you and/or your passenger were not wearing a crash helmet.
I find it interesting that some will spend thousands on overseas holidays, but not pay that little bit extra for comprehensive travel/health insurance. For those uninsured, I have heard stories of families becoming virtually bankrupt to settle huge overseas medical bills and possible repatriation expenses for an uninsured “loved” one. Some families will seek financial assistance via a funding website. However, the kindness of others may fall way short of overseas mounting costs.
Some places you had not intended visiting while on your holiday!!
