Majorca bombs: Travel insurance and terrorism
Majorca attracts thousands of holidaymakers every year
Friday, 31, Jul 2009 10:55
Most travel insurance policies will not pay out if concerned holidaymakers cancel their trip after recent terrorist attacks in Majorca, according to an expert.
The Foreign Office has warned travellers to Spain of a "high threat of terrorism" following two attacks on the island of Majorca.
However, unless the government changes its advice and tells people not to go, insurers will not pay out if worried travellers change their mind and cancel their holiday.
"If you cancel for disinclination to travel, then you will not be able to claim," says Malcolm Tarling, spokesperson for the Association of British Insurers (ABI).
Most policies now cover terrorism, Mr Tarling added.
"The majority, around 60 per cent, do have a clause covering terrorism," he said.
However, cover usually only extends to medical expenses in the event of an attack.
If your holiday is delayed because your flight is cancelled due to terrorist activity, most insurers will not pay out any compensation for lost days.
Thousands of tourists were affected after the recent bombings in Majorca as some flights were turned back or diverted to other Spanish islands.
Mr Tarling advised travellers to check the terms and conditions of their policy before they go to understand what is covered.
Current advice from the Foreign Office for people travelling to Spain is to be vigilant and follow the instructions of the local police and other authorities.