I am going on a 6 week tour in the USA this year. I'm in the process of getting travel insurance quotes. I looked at the CTC recommended insurers Citybond Suretravel. The policy wording had a list of activities mentioned including cycling which said any recommended safety equipment including helmets must be used.
So I sent them an e-mail
The policy has a list of allowed activities including cycling preceded by the phrase
"Any involvement is these sports and/or activities is subject to your compliance with local laws and regulations and the use of recommended safety equipment (such as helmet, harness, knee and/or elbow pads). "
While opinions on cycle helmets vary the policy of CyclingUK is that it is a matter of personal choice and unless required by local laws I do not wear one.
Can you confirm that the above paragraph does not mean there is a requirement for touring cyclists to wear a helmet unless required by law?
I've now had a reply. Which does not do anything else other than point to the policy wording. So as I specifically asked whether a touring cyclist was required to wear a helmet and didn't get a reply saying that wasn't the case I'll be going elsewhere for insurance.
The 2017 policy wording states that in addition to complying with local laws and regulations, you must also use any recommended safety equipment as shown below:
Saying that the policy will not be valid in the event "recommended" equipment isn't very helpful. Recommended by who? Would this be an excuse to refuse cover in the event of a claim.
I'm starting to think asking insurers about helmets is just a way to get turned down. Next plan to find an insurer that covers cycling, ensure no mention of helmets in policy docs, then just buy it.