As most of you know by now, a strong earthquake struck central Italy, killing and injuring many and destroying many structures. My sympathies go out to those who have been impacted by this terrible disaster. As many of you know, I work with Allianz Travel Insurance as an ambassador. I thought it was important to pass along the following information pertaining to those Allianz customers traveling in or about to travel to Italy as I know many of you have purchased policies as a result of my recommendation of Allianz.

The earthquake became a known event on August 24, 2016. Customers who purchased their travel insurance policy prior to that date may be eligible for coverage under their trip cancellation or trip interruption benefits, as described below.

Trip Cancellation/Interruption

Customers may qualify for Trip Cancellation or Interruption benefits if their travel supplier experienced a complete cessation of services for 24 or more consecutive hours due to a natural disaster. Some policies may offer coverage for customers if their destination is uninhabitable because of a natural disaster. For customers whose policy includes Extended Travel Delay coverage, they may cancel or interrupt their trip if a Travel Delay exceeds 50% of the scheduled trip.

Travel Delay

If your travel insurance policy lists Travel Delay as a benefit, you may be eligible to receive reimbursement for additional out of pocket meal, transportation and lodging expenses incurred as a result of a significant delay (please note: this benefit has a per person, per day maximum as well as a policy maximum). Some policies also provide coverage for pre-paid, non-refundable expenses lost due to a significant travel delay.

Customers who have questions can refer to their policy or call us at the number on their policy. Allianz is available 24/7/365 to answer questions and provide travel assistance.

Allianz Global Assistance customers should remember these important tips:

• Contact your travel suppliers before you cancel your trip. Some travel suppliers may allow you to change your trip without penalty.
• If you’re able to change the dates of your trip, Allianz will change the dates of your travel insurance policy to correspond to your new dates of travel. Just visit AllianzTravelInsurance.com to change your dates or to file a claim.
• Read your policy before you travel so you understand what coverage and services are available to assist you.
• Be sure to take your travel insurance card with you on your trip. It includes your policy number and the toll free travel assistance phone number.

Disclaimer: I work as an ambassador for Allianz Global Assistance (AGA Service Company) and receive financial compensation.

Sharing is caring!