Travel insurance: what to do in the event of a hijacking

Whether travelling by plane, train or on the high seas, the possibility of being hijacked whilst travelling on holiday remains a serious concern for many. This comes especially in the light of hijackings that have made headline news around the globe since the insurgence in terrorism threats. This is when being covered by travel insurance offers peace of mind.

Travel companies take into account that while nobody wishes to experience a hijacking situation, and seeing that these unfortunate occurrences do happen, have incorporated hijacking claims as part of the products they offer. Easy Travel Insurance’s claims assessors are expertly trained to take insured travellers through the compensation claims following a hijacking. Their deep level of understanding of the psychological distress and trauma as a result of such incidents enables them to respond in a manner that provides much needed support and advice.

Ryan Smethurst, Director of Easy Travel Insurance, says that in order for a hijacking claim to be made, ‘the hijack has to take place on public transportation.’ The only exclusion would be travelers engaging in politics or criminal activity.

Under Easy Travel Insurance’s policy, a hijacking occurring on a cruise liner, for example, would entitle an insured passenger to R 500 per day of being hijacked up to the limit on his/her particular schedule of benefits. For business policy holders this is R 100 000.

A hijacking ordeal is the source for tremendous emotional and mental stress. Common survival guidelines to observe during a hijacking situation are:

[icon icon=”asterisk” color=”theme”] Remember to remain calm and to comply with all directions and instructions given by the hijackers. Encourage other travellers to do the same.
[icon icon=”asterisk” color=”theme”] Be cognisant of the fact that the hijackers may be extremely nervous, scared and irrational; heightening the danger of the situation. Do not make any sudden unexpected movements or try to escape.
[icon icon=”asterisk” color=”theme”] Do not attempt to hide personal possessions or your passport.
[icon icon=”asterisk” color=”theme”] Be alert; observe physical characteristics and behaviour of the hijackers, taking in as much information as you can. Avoid eye contact. Do not give them the idea that you are watching them.
[icon icon=”asterisk” color=”theme”] Hijacking situations usually involve lengthy periods of time, so prepare yourself mentally and emotionally for a long ordeal. Try as much as possible to relax.
[icon icon=”asterisk” color=”theme”] Avoid resistance and sudden or threatening movements.
[icon icon=”asterisk” color=”theme”] As difficult as it may prove, it is important to remain positive. Avoid a sense of despair.
[icon icon=”asterisk” color=”theme”] If you have to respond to a captor, keep answers short in a normal tone of voice. Do not volunteer any information.

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