Life insurers suffer fools gladly

LONDON (Citywire) - If you jump over a waterfall with a jet ski and faulty parachute and do not survive, chances are a life office will still pay out, says research from life and protection specialist LifeSearch.

Protection cover is often criticised for a high level of rejected claims. But after investigating some of the most shocking reasons for deaths, and interviewing staff at Bright Grey, Royal Liver and Scottish Equitable, LifeSearch said claims are usually paid on even the most bizarre fates.

For example, in 1995, Robert Overcracker died attempting to ride a jet ski over the edge of Canada's 180-foot Horseshoe Falls, which are part of Niagara Falls.

According to the research, the claim would be paid unless Overcracker was a stuntman, or if he had planned the stunt when taking out cover. It is possible he would have needed a permit so no payment would have been made if the stunt was illegal.

LifeSearch policy adviser Matt Morris said: "As long as there is no non-disclosure or participation in a criminal act, then our examples would pay out, regardless of the obvious danger or foolishness of the person's behaviour."

(c) Citywire Financial Publishers Ltd 2007.