Insurance: Things could be hairy for rugby fans
Rugby World Cup leads insurance claims and dangers
Wednesday, 17 Oct 2007 16:17
Travel insurance claims are set to rise over the coming weekend as many as 40,000 England fans head to Paris for the final of the Rugby World Cup.
The football World Cup last year saw a rise in travel insurance claims of almost a quarter, according to figures from InsureandGo, and a similar rise is expected this weekend.
"Every time there is a major sporting event abroad involving England, we tend to see a spike in travel insurance claims. During the football World Cup in June last year, we had 23 per cent more claims than we did during June this year," said Perry Wilson, managing director of InsureandGo.
"Thousands of England fans in Paris and many others on holiday abroad elsewhere will be following the game, and as the drink flows and people become excited, the chances of being injured or, for example, having their pockets picked increases."
Last weekend – as England beat France in the semi-final – a total of 33 million pints of beer were drunk and further libation is expected this weekend – either as champagne flows or to drown sorrows.
Those heading to Paris are being urged to ensure they have travel insurance in place for protection.
Fans driving to Paris are also being urged to make sure their car insurance policy protects them on the continent.
"As people frantically book up the remaining Channel crossings in the hope of seeing their team lift the trophy for a second time, insurance is probably the last thing on their mind. However, driving on unfamiliar foreign roads can be a tricky business. It is important that you check whether you are covered in the event of an accident or theft whilst you drive through France," said Laura Wood from NFU Mutual.
Meanwhile, fans staying at home are also being warned to be wary.
Those heading to the pub are being urged to leave their lights on at home to deter thieves looking for empty homes.
"With the final taking place at 8 o'clock in the evening, it will be glaringly obvious who is in and out unless you think ahead and leave your lights on to reduce the likelihood of becoming a victim. Many fans will be making a day of the final and could easily forget to lock doors, shut windows and activate security alarms before heading out," said Debra Williams, managing director of insurance comparison site Confused.com.
"By taking these simple steps you could reduce the risk of being burgled, avoid subsequent increases in insurance premiums and prevent a sorry end to the evening, whatever the result. Our message is simple; lock-up before you leave."