The experience of a woman seriously injured in a scooter crash in Thailand is a reminder to travellers to do their research before purchasing travel medical insurance, say travel experts.
Kliaman had purchased her insurance, with a $250,000 US limit, from a U.S.-based company. The family has requested that the name of the company be withheld due to ongoing discussions over reimbursement for bills already incurred and future expenses. “Medical costs can easily reach $10,000 a day,” said Will McAleer, executive director of Travel Health Insurance Association of Canada, an umbrella group that represents 90 per cent of the industry in Canada.He said travellers choosing between different insurance policies should look for ones tailor-made for Canadians.
Cathy Scott, CEO of Departures Travel, the oldest independent travel agency in Victoria, said travel insurance sounds expensive — until you need it. “It’s not worth going cheap,” she said. “Travel is supposed to be joyful.”