Most people are familiar with the standard insurance policies — homeowners, auto, umbrella, life, and health insurance. You may not realize that there are insurance policies available for some off-the-wall risks. Alien abduction insurance, anyone?
From celebrities to the just plain bizarre, here are some of the most unusual insurance policies globally. You’re always welcome to contact our office for your more “typical” insurance needs.
Alien Abduction Insurance
Believe it or not, a London based firm has sold more than 30,000 alien abduction insurance policies throughout Europe. Of course, you’ll need to provide proof of the occurrence to file a claim. A little green could save you from the little green men if you’re a believer.
Don’t Forget Werewolfs, Vampires, and Ghosts.
Are you a little too into the TV series True Blood? No problem. There’s an insurance policy for you, too. For example, the Royal Falcon Hotel in Lowestoft, England, insured its staff and customers against death and disability caused by ghosts, poltergeists, and other abnormal phenomena.
Ransom Reimbursement
Multinational corporations have been known to secure policies for kidnapping, just in case their executives are abducted in another country while on a business trip. But individuals can also purchase this insurance if they so desire. How does it work? The insurance company will deploy a team of negotiators and reimburse the ransom price up to your policy limits.
Food Truck Insurance
Here’s one that’s relatively unknown but necessary if you’re a part of the growing mobile food vendor industry. With up to 10,000 food trucks in Los Angeles County alone, you want to be sure your rolling veggie burrito business is insured. Auto accidents, fire, and food-borne illness are just some of the risks they face.
Celebrities And Other Irreplaceable Talents
The list of over-the-top celebrity insurance policies is long, often with significant payouts from rock stars to athletes. Just about any body part you can think of has been insured, and here are just a few.
A Dutch Winemaker’s Nose
After hearing about a man who lost his sense of smell in a car accident, winemaker Ilja Gort took out an $8 million policy on his nose. Under the terms of the policy, he is barred from riding a motorcycle or working as a knife thrower’s assistant or fire-breather, among other things.
Gene Simmons
You don’t always have to insure the entire body. Gene Simmons, the legendary bassist for the 70’s rock band Kiss, allegedly insured his tongue for $1 million when the band was in its prime.
Troy Polamalu’s Hair Endorsement
Policies on athletes don’t have to be about performance. For example, while he was still playing, Proctor & Gamble wanted to protect their endorsement deal. As the star of their shampoo commercial, they insured his famous hair for $1 million.