“Plain English” helps insurance customers understand

In the post 9-11 world, more and more Americans are taking out insurance policies. The rise in popularity of insurance has put millions of dollars in the pockets of big companies but for uneducated policy holders, it may be difficult to get those companies to pay out.

Prior to September 11th, only ten per cent of Americans took out insurance for their holidays. Today, as many as 30 per cent insure their trips, according so estimates from those in the travel industry.

According to the U.S. Travel Insurance Association, the travel insurance industry realized profits last year of about $1 billion.

All the experts in the industry agree that no matter where you live or where you are going, solid research into your insurance policy is crucial to ensure that you are traveling with adequate protection. Thorough research involves going beyond the company’s website or brochure and reading through the fine print of the specific policy under consideration.

According to Access America, an insurance company providing travel insurance to thousands of Americans, many people are traveling under the impression they are covered when, in fact, they may not be.

To help their customers, they have launched a “Plain English” campaign to try and simplify the language used in policies so that everyone can understand exactly what they are buying into.

Company spokesperson Caroline Platt said that the campaign involves "taking the pen back from the underwriter's hand," so that the average person can understand what is covered and what is not covered.

Rob Jordan, a regional sales manager for Travel Insured International, had some solid advice for travellers looking to get insured for their vacations. “The most basic advice I would give to someone looking to purchase travel insurance would be to ask questions,” he said. He also recommended booking insurance the same day the trip is booked in order to get the widest range of insurance coverage.

Yasmin Purnell Editorial
01/04/08