Looks like a fair bit of scaremongering going on here.
Firstly, from my memory the majority of incidents where folks have been killed/injured have involved jeeps/trucks that have had neither seat belts nor securely fitted roll bars. They have also been overcrowded and in at least one case the driver was pretty much amongst the passengers using large water pistols. I also believe the local authorities have clamped down, to the best of their abilities, on many of the rogue operators.
If you fancy one of these trips, have a look at what you'll be going out in - if its a manky old Landrover with no seat belts then give it a body swerve. If however it's a purpose built "road safari" truck like posted above then you may be missing out on a good fun filled day. Its a judgement call where you use your common sense.
Secondly, insurance. Contrary to what some on here have been claiming, with many companies you are covered for this type of activity as standard - its simple, check your policy. I'm with Virgin Travel Insurance and I'm covered - in fact not only am I covered for this as standard, I'm also covered for banana boating, abseiling, parascending over water, river tubing, mud buggying, go-karting and sleigh riding. Lapland here I come!
The one caveat I was told when I enquired (I was curious) was that it must be with a properly licensed operator - in the case of Turkey I would look for them to be registered with TURSAB. I had a look at a few other insurers (yeah, yeah, its a quiet day but I do fancy the sleigh riding
) and they're not that dissimilar to Virgin.
Incidentally, Hazardous Sports Insurance is exactly that - rock climbing, sky diving, micro light flying etc, etc. Not what is required for a properly organised and operated fun day out.
JF
EDIT: Not all insurers use the same criteria so if in doubt, check with your insurer yourself - as I've often said, never believe the old bollox you read on forums
