Summary
An Acadia Parish couple, Pierre and Bertha Besse, is suing their travel insurers for reimbursement after facing significant expenses while escaping Israel during the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023. The couple claims they incurred costs for delays, missed flights, and a $15,000 armored car rental while trying to return home safely.
The Besses were in Israel for an educational trip when the attacks occurred, leading to canceled flights and a dire need for evacuation. They had purchased a travel insurance policy from AIG Travel Guard, which was supposed to cover incidents related to terrorism. Despite the U.S. Department of State classifying the attacks as terrorism, AIG denied their claims for reimbursement after they returned to the U.S., prompting the couple to file a lawsuit in 15th Judicial District Court. Their legal action highlights the complexities and challenges travelers may face when dealing with insurance claims during international crises.
Background of the Incident
- Trip Details: The Besses planned a trip from September 26 to October 9, 2023, coinciding with the Jewish Feast of Tabernacles.
- Attacks and Immediate Response: During the attacks, they experienced missiles overhead and had to navigate canceled flights, ultimately relying on an armored car service to escape to Jordan.
Legal Claims
- Insurance Policy: The couple’s lawsuit alleges that AIG Travel Guard’s policy explicitly covered terrorist incidents, as defined by the U.S. Department of State.
- Financial and Emotional Impact: The lawsuit details the significant mental and physical distress endured by the couple, alongside the financial hardships caused by the insurer’s refusal to honor their claim.
Defendants in the Lawsuit
The lawsuit names multiple defendants, including AIG, Travel Guard Group, and the travel agencies involved in booking their trip. The Besses seek compensation for their losses and the emotional toll of their ordeal during the crisis.
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Oct. 10 / Forexlive / Highlights the legal complexities faced by the Besses, offering detailed insights into their ordeal and the insurance policy's terms. The narrative is compelling, emphasizing the emotional and financial toll of the crisis. “ Markets: It was a lively session feature some notable data and central bank speak. The market was uneven throughout, particularly in FX where the dollar...
Acadia Parish couple caught in Israel during Oct. 7, 2023, attacks sues travel insurers
Oct. 10 / The Advocate / Presents a comprehensive account of the Besses' experience, detailing their trip's timeline and the challenges they faced. It effectively captures the urgency of their situation, though it could benefit from tighter editing. “ Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Copy article link Save An Acadia Parish couple is suing travel insurers that refused to reimburse them for delays,...