Storm’s a-brewin’
*UPDATE: the winter storm has now been named. Winter Storm Decima became a named storm on 13 December, so any policy purchased on or after that date will not include coverage for losses related to Decima, Squaremouth says. You can visit Squaremouth's Winter Storms and Travel Insurance Information Center for up-to-date information.*
*UPDATE: the winter storm has now been named. Winter Storm Decima became a named storm on 13 December, so any policy purchased on or after that date will not include coverage for losses related to Decima, Squaremouth says. You can visit Squaremouth's Winter Storms and Travel Insurance Information Center for up-to-date information.*
US-based travel insurance comparison site Squaremouth says there is still time for travellers to insure their upcoming trips ahead of the winter storm expected to cross the US this week.
Squaremouth has reminded travellers that airlines are not required to compensate passengers for delays due to weather, so additional expenses caused by such delays often come out of the traveller’s pocket.
According to Squaremouth, benefits can be payable as early as three hours into a delay and can cover expenses incurred during the delay, including food and overnight accommodation: “For travellers whose trips are cancelled outright due to winter weather, travel insurance can reimburse the entire cost of their trip.”
Additionally, travellers worried about winter weather can purchase a travel insurance policy at any time before they leave. However, Squaremouth warns, if they are concerned about a specific storm forecast to impact their trip, they should check to make sure that storm isn’t named.
"Travellers who buy a policy after hearing about a storm may be spending money on something they won't be able to use," said Squaremouth customer service director Jessica Harvey. "We always recommend travellers call us and speak to a professional if there's any question about coverage."