One of the smartest moves you can make when booking a trip is to secure travel insurance for yourself. While you might be tempted to go with a cut-rate company, be sure to watch out for scams. Unfortunately, con artists are everywhere these days, and many of them know they can trick unsuspecting travelers into parting ways with their money.
The Devil is in The Details
One of the first things to look at when making a decision about travel insurance is the name that’s used to describe they type of policy you are purchasing. Travel protection plans are not the same as travel insurance policies, which are documents that follow standard insurance regulations in the area where they are purchased. You should be aware that it is illegal for companies to offer uncertified insurance policies; anything called a “protection plan” is legal, no matter what it covers. If you purchase something called a “protection plan,” the odds are good that your trip is not properly insured.
Beware the Fine Print
Travel insurance is supposed to protect you. It’s supposed to ensure you can get medical help when traveling abroad, and it is also supposed to provide you with a means for obtaining legal aid. In addition, it should protect you in the event you must cancel your trip, among other things. Be sure you read your policy completely, because some scary things can be hidden beneath dry “legalese.”
For example, some policies won’t cover you if you injure yourself and it’s “your fault.” What if you’re diving in Mexico, and you end up hurting yourself? Are you covered? If the policy is not specific, ask these questions before you purchase the policy. If you’re not satisfied with what one company offers, continue shopping.
Watch out for the Claims Process
Disreputable companies don’t do a good job of telling travelers how to make a claim if necessary, while legitimate companies do. Be sure you understand how to make a claim while you are overseas, and ensure the customer service number listed is good. Some fraudulent travel insurance companies avoid mentioning customer service, and they don’t even list telephone numbers where representatives can be reached.
The best way to avoid being defrauded by a purported travel insurance company is to make a studied comparison between plans. Don’t buy travelers insurance without doing your homework; not only will you end up paying for something that is unusable, you will not be protected while traveling.
There are many types of travel insurance that protect divers. One of the best is Divers Alert Network, which is operated by divers and for divers. This company offers round the clock emergency assistance. In addition, they offer global coverage that includes protection for personal belongings that are lost, stolen, or damaged while you are traveling. They also offer medical coverage and much more, and they’ll never deny coverage because a diving accident is supposedly “your fault.” Instead of entrusting your health, your belongings, and your trip itinerary to a cut-rate insurance company operating a well-orchestrated travel scam, choose a reputable company – one you’ve heard of before, and one with a good track record. Spending a little more up front not only ensures you’re covered, it gives you the peace of mind you need to relax and enjoy your vacation.