Travel Insurance
8. Travel Warnings
Authors: Staff Legal Eagle
Firm / Chambers:
Last updated: 25 Aug 2015
- Most insurers have a disclaimer in the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) that states something similar to "we will not pay under any circumstances if your claim arises because you did not follow advice in the mass media or any government or other official body’s warning."
- This is particularly relevant if you are travelling to a location that may be dangerous due to civil unrest or war. Travel warnings may also apply to locations that are at risk of experiencing an extreme weather event particularly if it has been publicised in the mass media. This can include such things as a hurricane, tsunami, flood or landslide for example.
- Ignorance is no defence in these circumstances. You should stay alert before your trip and do your research. The Australian government's Smart Traveller website will provide you with the most up-to-date information about every international location. The website can be located at www.smartraveller.gov.au.
- If the event has arisen after you purchased insurance but before you have left Australia and it is no longer safe to travel to your chosen destination your travel insurance policy may cover any expenses involved in changing your plans. This will depend on your particular policy and the specific wording of your PDS. If you are worried about the ongoing safety of your chosen location you should choose a policy that covers cancellation costs for these situations.
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