The family of a British man who fell from a three-story balcony while on a stag do in Portugal is worried that his travel insurance might not cover his increasing medical expenses due to his alcohol consumption.
Jakob Davies, 25, is currently hospitalized in Faro after sustaining severe injuries from the fall at a hotel in Albufeira earlier this month. His relatives are anxiously awaiting a decision from his insurer following tests that revealed alcohol in his system.
Hailing from Scarborough, North Yorkshire, the factory worker had joined approximately 30 colleagues on a stag weekend in the Portuguese party destination on June 4.
His mother, Claire Gerrard, is concerned about potentially significant costs as doctors have indicated that Jakob may require urgent surgery to walk again.
Despite having travel insurance, the presence of alcohol in his system raises doubts about the coverage. Claire disclosed, “The insurer has been provided with all the necessary reports, including blood tests confirming alcohol levels, which may affect the claim outcome.”
While Jakob opted to stay back at the accommodation for a game of football on June 5, his friends returning later that day were alarmed by emergency vehicles rushing to the hotel.
Describing the scene, Claire explained that Jakob was found unconscious with severe head injuries and broken bones after reportedly falling from the balcony.
Following the incident, Jakob was first treated at a local hospital before being transferred to a larger facility in Faro, where doctors diagnosed him with a serious head injury, fractures in his feet and ankles, and spinal fractures.
As Jakob continues his recovery abroad, a GoFundMe campaign has been initiated by family and friends to assist with medical costs and repatriation to the UK.
Experts caution that certain travel insurance policies may exclude coverage related to alcohol or drug use, emphasizing the importance of reviewing policy details, especially for travelers planning to consume alcohol while overseas.
To contribute to the GoFundMe initiative, visit the provided link.
