Different Assistance Contracts

Principle and Coverage

Principle

Assistance kicks in as soon as you call upon it, deploying various human, technical, and occasionally financial resources. It steps in during travel whenever the insured finds themselves in an accident or incident. It’s estimated that around a third of people in France take out an assistance contract when travelling.

Coverage

Three types of coverage are typically included in assistance contracts: medical assistance, vehicle assistance, and legal aid.

Medical Assistance

This is the main coverage and the one most subscribers look for. The assistance provider handles on-the-spot medical expenses for the insured following an accident or medical issue.

Exclusions

Be aware that coverage only applies to emergency medical expenses and only if the insured was in good health before departure. Additionally, some providers refuse to cover individuals over a certain age (often 65/70) unless an extra fee is paid. Similarly, some countries or regions deemed high-risk are also excluded.

As for certain activities considered high-risk by insurers (diving, aerial sports, etc.), these are either excluded from the contract, subject to an additional fee, or require a specific policy.

Coverage Limits

Logically, ensure the contract’s coverage limits match the realities of the country you’re visiting. In some places (particularly the USA), healthcare costs are extremely high, so providers typically increase their coverage limits accordingly (usually without issue).

Also, double-check the coverage caps for expenses like a relative’s visit or search-and-rescue costs if you’re engaging in certain activities.

Intervention

For assistance to work fully, no expenses should be incurred without prior approval from the contract provider.

In practice, if a problem arises, contact the provider immediately using the number on your contract (which is why you should always carry it). This number is available 24/7, year-round. After your call, the assistance provider decides on the intervention, covering costs directly (watch the limits) and/or reimbursing expenses if it was impossible to do otherwise (keep receipts).

Covered Services

Most providers cover the following:

• Sending a doctor if needed,

• Repatriation only if justified (otherwise, treatment is provided locally),

• Medical expenses excluding pre-existing conditions before the trip,

• Hospital fee advances,

• Relatives’ visit costs,

• Ancillary costs if someone assists you (transport, accommodation, etc.),

• Search-and-rescue costs if necessary,

• Repatriation of remains in case of death.

The Social Security Option

Even without medical assistance, you may still be covered depending on your destination. Within the European Union (excluding the UK), French Social Security reimburses medical expenses according to the rates in the visited country. To benefit, carry the European Health Insurance Card. It replaced the E111 form in 2004 and can be requested from your CPAM.

Outside the EU, conditions vary widely, depending on existing agreements between countries. For details (including for studies or work abroad), consult your Health Insurance Fund.

Vehicle and Legal Assistance

Vehicle Assistance

This coverage handles towing costs, spare parts delivery, or the repatriation of the vehicle and passengers. It often supplements or replaces the insurance you have when travelling with your own vehicle or a rental.

Legal Aid

Legal assistance comes into play in disputes with authorities abroad. It provides access to a lawyer, advances for legal bail, or any other support needed in such situations.

Who Offers These Services?

Assistance is most commonly offered automatically by the agency selling the travel service. However, you may already be covered through your credit card or mutual insurance. It’s worth checking what you already have and the terms (limits, excess, etc.). If needed, you can also contact specialised providers offering these contracts.