Australians are being urged to take travel safety more seriously, with leading travel compensation lawyer Peter Carter issuing a stark warning: many travellers are unaware of the risks and limited legal protections they face once they leave the country.

“There are too many stories of people who either don’t have travel insurance, can’t claim on their insurance or have their claims rejected, or who – through their own actions – remove any chance of compensation when they return,” Mr Carter said.

Australians often assume they’re protected abroad as they are at home through systems like Medicare, CTP insurance, or domestic legal protections. But Carter warns, “this is not the case when you leave the country.”

He supports a federal government campaign raising awareness about alcohol-related risks while travelling, but says the warning must go much further.

“We travel at our own risk and there are plenty of risks. Don’t let the excitement cloud your judgement when planning.”

The Reality of Travel Insurance

While travel insurance is essential, Carter warns that it’s not a silver bullet.

“Just as we consider what our home insurance covers and doesn’t cover, we must do so with travel insurance as each policy is different,” he said.

Key limitations include:

  • Exclusions for alcohol consumption

  • Dangerous activities not covered

  • Coverage ending upon return to Australia

  • No income protection or long-term medical care included

Carter also noted that some insurers may delay or deny claims, especially before authorising emergency evacuations.

“Travel insurance coverage ends immediately upon arrival back in Australia. If you have a major injury that may result in ongoing medical care, neither travel insurance nor Medicare covers loss of income.”

Legal Recourse and Booking Advice

Carter strongly recommends booking travel activities through Australian-based businesses.

“The legal system in many countries makes compensation recovery very unlikely. Where possible, avoid booking or doing trips with small tourist outlets overseas,” he said.

Peter Carter’s Travel Safety Recommendations:

  1. Think ahead – Carefully assess risks and safety before you travel.

  2. Review your insurance – Understand exclusions, especially around risky activities and alcohol.

  3. Book through Australian businesses – Easier legal recourse if something goes wrong.

  4. Challenge refusals – If your claim is denied, don’t accept it at face value; legal obligations may still apply.

  5. Leave a trail – If injured, gather as much evidence as possible: file police reports, record video or written statements.

  6. Explore your legal options upon return – Even if travel insurance ends, other legal avenues may be available.

“If injured and the travel insurer refuses to pay, challenge this legally – they may be obligated to pay under the law,” Carter said.

As more Australians prepare to head overseas, Carter’s warning serves as a timely reminder: planning for safety is just as important as planning for fun.

Original Source: TravelTalk