Bungee Jump Into Crocodile River: Uninsured Woman Faces Massive Medical Bill

Australian Erin Langworthy went bungee jumping in a Zimbabwe valley on New Year’s Eve 2011 when the cord snapped — plunging her into a crocodile-infested river. She miraculously survived, but with no travel insurance she faced medical bills topping NT$1.5 million (about HK$400,000).

What happened?

Cord snapped, river plunge, miraculous survival. Langworthy’s bungee cord broke over the Zimbabwe gorge, dropping her into waters known for crocodiles. She lived, but with serious injuries and a staggering bill.

Why a living ad for travel insurance?

No insurance meant the massive bill was all hers. The NT$1.5 million-plus in medical costs came entirely out of pocket — Australian authorities seized on her case to urge travellers to take overseas travel insurance seriously.

What’s the lesson?

Never travel without travel insurance. Overseas medical bills can be astronomical — enough to ruin you without cover; and check whether hazardous activities are covered before trying them. Australia’s foreign ministry reminds travellers that insurance is vital protection if disaster strikes abroad.