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Travel Relaxed – Travel Secure – Travel Insured

By December 12, 2019January 9th, 2020Personal Insurance

The Holidays are a prime time for family vacations while the kids are out of school and parents are in need of some time away from the office. Many children enjoy traveling; they can see new places, meet new people and have new experiences. However, traveling can also be anxiety provoking for them. Being in big crowds, sleeping in different beds and eating unfamiliar foods can all cause extra stress. This added stress isn’t just for the little ones though, Senior Vice President at Lipscomb & Pitts Insurance, Sharon Posman, shares insights and answers to frequently asked questions as you prepare to hit the road this Holiday season.

What are some issues I should consider when traveling that can be insured?

  • Healthcare, dental and accidents involving the need for immediate medical attention
  • Trip Interruption or even cancellation
  • Theft or loss of property including missing luggage / passport
  • Death

Should I only be concerned when traveling abroad?

  • Many policies will trigger coverage when traveling 100 miles from home

Are there different companies offering coverage I can compare and shop for price?

  • Travel Guard (AIG), Travel Safe, Allianz to name a few
  • Check your American Express card options
  • Check with your property & casualty insurance agent as there are companies that offer corporate travel policies for their executives

What other add ons may be offered that I should consider?

  • Pre-existing condition coverage – check the conditions as there will be time requirements
  • Kidnap and Ransom coverage
  • Rental car damage
  • Trip delay and switched flight fees

I am a frequent traveler and this can get expensive.   Are there alternatives?

  • Yes; for example Chubb Insurance offers an annually renewable policy with a lot of features and benefits

How does my homeowners and auto insurance policies respond when having travel emergencies?

  • Theft of jewelry when properly scheduled
  • Check for worldwide personal and auto liability coverage – many policies have a limited territory they will respond

What if I rent a car in another country?

  • Again check with your agent on policy territory conditions
  • Check with the rental car agency for American policy acceptability
  • Consider your American Express and find out what benefits they offer
  • Travel Insurance can also be another resource

Are there countries that do not accept American Insurance?

  • Definitely and one example would be Mexico. When traveling there either purchase at the border or plan alternative transportation

What if the trip is a destination wedding?

  • There are several markets that have unique and special coverages for weddings such as Wedsure, Wedsafe and others. They offer coverage in areas of weather interference,  loss of deposits, change of venue and others.

For personal safety what are some tips to keep myself and my personal information safe while traveling?

  • Stay off social Media until you return
  • Have a contingency plan for emergencies – life happens!
  • Scan your passport and have key phone numbers handy
  • Enroll in the website STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) for information on dangerous areas and other tips for traveling safe. It is service by the US Dept. of State
  • Hire a security service (Kroll is a nationally known firm) for designing a plan and keep that plan on file with another party close to you.

The greatest resource for insurance and personal risk management is a professional agent who represents a lot of specialized markets.  Make an appointment to chat with a certified agent before making the big plans.

 

Sharon Posman, CPRM, CIC, CISR, AFIS
Senior Vice President
Lipscomb & Pitts Insurance LLC

sharonp@lpinsurance.com | 901-321-1052

 

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