Corporate travel insurance, like supply chains and so many other facets of the economy, is being confronted by the fallout of the coronavirus.  

The SARS outbreak of 2003 and other, similar events have precipitated change in the industry.  Insurers have been working to address this challenge, shoring up their bottom line against the ravages of global crises.

Of course, businesses will be the ones footing the bill, as insurers protect themselves from the potential for claims in the numbers they saw from SARS.

So, how do companies like yours find the insurer who’s going to provide the best coverage for your traveling employees?  What we’ve said above applies to most providers in the travel insurance space.  

These tips for acquiring corporate travel insurance can support you in finding the best coverage, protecting your company, while protecting your employees.

Disruption cover

The truth is that, unlike SARS, there are likely to be few losses to insurers from COVID-19.  New wording in corporate travel policies which doesn’t cover disruptions occasioned by events like COVID-19 has been added to ensure that.

So, the first of our tips for acquiring corporate travel insurance is to add disruption cover.  This protects you from a sudden influx of cancelled travel plans, according to Allianz SE.  Allianz is also one insurer which has indicated a willingness to cover some claims arising from coronavirus.  They’re joined by AXA SA.

While there are exceptions to the rule concerning insurer response to unforeseen global crises, obtaining coverage that’s fortified with disruption insurance is a crucial ingredient in sound corporate travel insurance.

Core policy that attracts talent

A strong, comprehensive corporate travel policy which enshrines corporate travel insurance as a value, is a benefit.  The kind of talent that moves your company forward desires the thoughtfulness of well-rounded policy.  It adds tremendous value to your compant when you’re in recruitment mode.

And talent-facing policy is necessary in a hiring market which favors employees – especially the kind of employees you’re seeking.

And this is the second of our tips for acquiring corporate travel insurance – robust corporate travel insurance as part of a well-crafted corporate travel policy attracts the stars you seek and helps you keep them.  

Beyond the basics

When we say “comprehensive” or “robust”, what do we mean in the context of travel insurance? Let’s break it down:

• Your liability

Your general liability insurance policy will give you an idea what your company already has in place, in terms of travel insurance.  These policies often cover business travel in some capacity.  For example, liability for international employee travel.

Reviewing your general liability policy for features insuring aspects of corporate travel is a good place to start - showing you where you need to add additional travel coverage and supplement your existing liability policy.

• Health insurance

A crucial protection for travelling employees is, of course, health coverage.  So, your next stop is your company’s health insurance plan.  Does it cover you while your people are out there?  What does it cover?  Your travel insurance is an extension of your existing health insurance policy.

• Life insurance

Your travel insurance should include life insurance, but which type will you choose?  There are three distinct types.

1. Accidents while flying – coverage is solely for in flight accidents leading to death.
2. Accidents while travelling – employees are covered for the duration of travel.
3. Common carrier – This covers death/dismemberment on “common carriers” (public transportation).

Keeping in mind what we discussed earlier with respect to attracting and retaining key talent, choosing the broadest coverage for this item is advisable.

• Foreign workers compensation 

This item holds your employees covered, not just from accidents but also from contracting diseases while traveling (NB:  See Disruption Insurance for coverage from pandemics and discuss with your insurer in relation to FWC).  

Some policies make provision for emergency healthcare (providing an extra layer of security and employee assurance).  Select a policy which protects your company from liability in the event of potential litigation.

• Evacuation

In the event of civil unrest, disasters and unforeseen emergencies, evacuation insurance provides for transporting traveling employees to safe locations and medical treatment for injuries sustained as a result.

CenterPoint Group

Corporate travel with CenterPoint Group provides your employees with access to the award-winning CONNECT app.  

CONNECT is your secret corporate travel weapon, providing you real time, live assistance.  CONNECT also advises of flight disruptions, allowing the rapid-fire pivots corporate travel often requires.  

Armed with only a mobile device, your employees are empowered by our professionals, 24/7.

Ready to go?  Contact us.