Business Travel Accident Insurance is designed to provide financial protection in the event of unforeseen accidents during authorized work-related trips. It’s important to understand that this type of insurance specifically covers losses resulting directly from accidental injuries sustained while on university-sanctioned business travel. It does not extend to losses incurred due to illness, disease, or pre-existing health conditions.
Who is Protected by Travel Accident Insurance?
Washington University’s business travel accident insurance policy offers coverage to a broad range of individuals associated with the university. This includes:
- All Domiciled US Employees: Any employee based in the United States who is traveling for university business purposes.
- Graduate Program Enrollees: Students officially enrolled in graduate programs are covered during university-related travel.
- Clinical Fellows, Trainees, and Postdoctoral Scholars: Individuals in these roles are also insured when traveling for university business.
- University Trustees: Trustees traveling on behalf of Washington University are included in the coverage.
- Family Members Traveling with Insured Individuals: Spouses, domestic partners, and dependent children of the primary insured person are also covered when they accompany the insured on university business trips.
What Does Travel Accident Insurance Cover?
This policy provides benefits for significant events that may occur during business travel, focusing on:
- Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D): In the unfortunate event of accidental death or the loss of limbs, the policy provides financial compensation.
- Permanent Total Disability: If an accident results in permanent and total disability, the insured is eligible for benefits.
The policy operates with a “principal sum,” which represents the maximum payout. This full principal sum is typically paid out for events such as death, quadriplegia, coma, and permanent total disability. A percentage of this principal sum is allocated for dismemberment, with the specific percentage depending on the extent of the loss. Additional benefits may be available based on a schedule of benefits, but these are always subject to the overall principal sum limit.
What Qualifies as Business Travel for Insurance Coverage?
“Travel” under this policy is broadly defined to include both local and international business trips. Specifically, it covers:
- Authorized Local Business Travel: Travel for university business that takes place away from the university’s main campus or premises.
- Domestic and International Business Travel: Trips to other cities or locations, whether within the United States or anywhere else in the world, for university business purposes are covered.
It is crucial to note that this travel accident insurance does not cover daily commuting to and from work. The coverage is specifically for travel undertaken for authorized university business activities.
International Travel Support and Assistance
For those traveling internationally, Washington University has partnered with International SOS to provide a comprehensive 24/7 Emergency Travel Assistance Service Plan. While this plan is invaluable for international travelers, it’s important to understand:
- Not Health Insurance: The International SOS plan is not a substitute for health insurance. It provides emergency assistance services, but not comprehensive health coverage.
- Options for International Health Insurance: For individuals seeking health insurance coverage while traveling internationally, options are available through HTC World Wide and GeoBlue.
For more detailed information about the International SOS Emergency Travel Assistance Service Plan and to explore international health insurance options, you can visit the Global Engagement website.
Need Assistance?
For any questions or further clarification regarding business travel accident insurance, please contact:
Lynn Haigler
[email protected]
(314) 935-5547
