At Direct Line we want to keep our customers up to date with our position regarding Swine Flu.
Further information can be found below, within our Frequently Asked Questions and top tips.
Swine Flu FAQs:
If my airline/cruise company refuse to let me board the plane/ship as I am displaying swine flu symptoms will I be covered?
In the first instance please refer to your airline or cruise company as they maybe able to offer you an alternate flight/cruise or a refund. In the event that this does not happen please obtain official documentation from a medically qualified person acting on behalf of your transport provider confirming they have denied you boarding owing to you having swine flu symptoms.
What happens if I contract Swine Flu whilst onboard a flight and could be quarantined abroad?
Some countries have put quarantine measures in place for people travelling from affected countries, or who have been found to display symptoms of the virus upon landing. The Foreign Office advises that British nationals who find themselves quarantined overseas should contact their nearest British Embassy/Consulate who will be able to offer consular assistance, though access may be limited due to the quarantine restrictions.
Customers who find themselves in this position are advised to obtain written confirmation from the relevant authorities as to the nature of the quarantine.
Claims of this nature will be dealt with on a case by case basis.
If I get Swine Flu whilst on holiday will I be covered?
Claims for Medical Expenses will be covered in this situation subject to normal terms and conditions. Policy terms are conditions are available online: http://directline.com/travel/cover.htm. Please check the FCO web site before you travel http://www.fco.gov.uk
A family member has the virus and I want to come home early from my trip?
For those looking to curtail or cut their trip short due to an immediate family member falling seriously ill after having contracted Swine Flu, they will be covered subject to the normal policy terms and conditions
If I get Swine Flu before I go on holiday can I submit a cancellation claim?
A medical certificate should be obtained from your GP confirming you are not fit to travel on your holiday. If your GP won’t give you a certificate we will consider alternate documentation e.g. a letter from your employer confirming you were absent owing to Swine Flu or a copy of your prescription for anti flu drugs e.g. Tamiflu. However please liaise with your tour operator/transport provider in the first instance as some are offering refunds or alternate trips. The Cancellation section of your policy pays out when a refund can not be obtained from any other source
What happens if the FCO recommends ‘against all travel’ to my chosen holiday destination?
If the FCO advises against ‘all travel’ then Direct Line travel policies will provide cover for cancellation due to the change in country advice.
Will I be covered if I travel against the advice of the FCO?
Any claims linked to travelling against FCO advice will not be covered.
Top tips for swine flu related travel insurance claims:
Remember, travel insurance will handle swine flu just like any other medical condition that causes a claim. Try not to be caught up in all the sensational press reporting and remain calm and focused.
- If you experience any changes or delays to your intended travel plans be sure to obtain written confirmation from the organisation involved to aid in making any claim.
- Keep track of any receipts, tickets stubs or any other evidence that may be relevant to a travel insurance claim.
- When travelling in Europe, always carry an Emergency Health Insurance Card (EHIC, formally know as the E111). If you do not yet have an EHIC, you can apply online at http://www.ehic.org.
- If you are travelling on an organised trip, such as a package holiday, contact your tour operator for more information in the first instance.
- If you did not book your trip through a tour operator, contact the providers of the individual elements of your holiday to discuss alternative arrangements.
|
