Data shows trip cancellation main reason for travel insurance claim
Over 2020 and into 2021, trip cancellation remains the main reason for people claiming on their travel insurance policy
“In general, travel insurance programmes provide a number of benefits and services designed to help you get assistance and cover expenses related to pre-paid or incremental trip expenses, unforeseen medical events and loss of personal possessions,” explained Beth Godlin, Spokesperson with Aon Affinity Travel Practice.
She added that the top reasons that claims are filed have remained fairly consistent over the years, although 2020 was certainly not a typical year. According to Godlin, claims data shows the top claims are for:
- Trip cancellation
- Medical expenses for emergency illness and injury
- Reimbursement of certain trip costs if a trip is interrupted
- Reimbursement of certain costs if a trip is delayed
LaShanta Sullivan, Travel Assistance Department Manager at Allianz Partners USA, added that the top reasons Allianz Travel customers are filing medical claims include Covid-19, fractures/sprains, heart attacks, strokes and gastroenteritis (stomach flu). Sullivan reported that in 2020, Allianz Partners fielded more than 20,000 calls and handled 2,100 medical assistance cases. More than 200 medical transportations were arranged for seriously injured customers, and they assisted with 96 Covid-19 cases. So far in 2021, Allianz has fielded 12,000 calls and handled 1,935 medical cases.
Meanwhile, the list of most expensive domestic claims from New Zealand’s leading travel insurer is a reminder that the best time to purchase travel insurance is as soon as a trip is booked.