Travel Ins - Curtailment clause problem

Tfat2004

I have annual travel insurance with Columbus Direct. having checked the very small print it seems that when it comes to the death or serious illness of a close relative, I could only use the insurance curtailment element (being brought back home early) if that close relative lives in the same country. I live in the UK and my parents live in the south of Ireland - I could not use my insurance to bring me back home if my parents died or were taken seriously ill - WHAT CAN I DO? this seems ridiculous!

richardw

Does it mean they'd return you to the UK and not the relative's country?

shaun_from_Africa

richardw wrote: »

Does it mean they'd return you to the UK and not the relative's country?

No.
I've just had a look at the relevant policy details and for there to be a valid claim, the relative must reside in the same country as the policyholder.

a. the death, severe injury or serious illness of:
i. you; or
ii. an immediate relative of yours, resident in your country of residency, or
iii. a travelling companion; or

Tfat2004 wrote: »

I have annual travel insurance with Columbus Direct. having checked the very small print

I wouldn't refer to it as "very small print"
It's on page 6 of the policy document and is very clear as to what is and isn't covered.
http://www.columbusdirect.com/pdfs/COL/COL-PW10-04.pdf

From an insurance premium perspective this seems a reasonable clause.
Your relatives might live in deepest Africa where medical provision is very poor and life expectancy far lower than the UK.

Tfat2004

I have just had a reply from Columbus direct - they now say this is a principle but would treat each claim on a case by case basis.
I live in the uk, my parents live in the south of Ireland - I consider it perfectly reasonable to get me back to the uk so I can get to the south of Ireland myself - if required.

jonesMUFCforever

Tfat2004 wrote: »

I have just had a reply from Columbus direct - they now say this is a principle but would treat each claim on a case by case basis.
I live in the uk, my parents live in the south of Ireland - I consider it perfectly reasonable to get me back to the uk so I can get to the south of Ireland myself - if required.

I would agree with this - however when I first read your original post I thought you would want to be flown back to Eire which would not be covered.
On last point you do hold a UK passport and not an Irish one?