What Happens if I Get Hurt While on Vacation?

Vacations are meant to be relaxing and enjoyable experiences, but sometimes unexpected accidents or injuries can occur. According to recent reports, more than 49 million U.S. citizens travel abroad each year. And, around 18-24% of deaths abroad are due to injuries. If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of getting hurt while on vacation, it’s important to know what steps to take to protect your rights and ensure that you receive the proper medical attention and compensation you deserve. 

A study by Travelex found that the average cost of a medical evacuation from abroad is around $25,000, highlighting the potential financial burden of vacation-related injuries. 

Get Seen by a Medical Professional

The most obvious step is to get seen by a medical professional. Depending on the severity of your situation, you may need to visit a local hospital or urgent care facility. If your injuries are minor, you can also consult with your hotel’s medical staff or a nearby clinic.

Once you’ve received treatment, it’s important to keep detailed records of your medical expenses, including receipts, bills, and any documentation related to your condition and treatment.

Notify the Appropriate Parties

After seeking medical attention, you should notify the relevant parties about your injury. If the accident occurred on a cruise ship or at a resort, report the incident to their management or security team. 10 people are reported to have fallen from cruise liners in 2022, so accidents do happen. There will likely be procedures in place to document the incident and provide you with the necessary paperwork.

Additionally, if your accident was caused by a third party’s negligence, such as a car accident or a slip and fall at a public venue, you’ll want to gather information about the responsible party and report the incident to local authorities.

Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney

Before dealing with insurance companies, you must speak to a personal injury attorney who specializes in vacation-related accidents. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the legal landscape, protect your rights, and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, and any other damages you may have incurred.

Personal injury attorneys like Zehl & Associates handle these cases on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if they can successfully help you recover compensation. They will thoroughly investigate your case, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies or file a lawsuit if necessary.

Gathering Evidence

To build a strong case, it’s essential to gather as much evidence as possible. This includes:

• Photographs of the accident scene and your injuries
• Witness statements and contact information
• Copies of medical records and bills
• Documentation of any lost wages or income due to your injury

Understanding Liability

Determining liability is a crucial aspect of a personal injury case. Your attorney will investigate the circumstances surrounding your accident to determine who or what was responsible for your injuries.

Common examples of liability in vacation-related accidents include:

• Negligence on the part of a hotel, resort, or cruise line
• Defective products or equipment
• Unsafe conditions or hazards on the premises
• Reckless or negligent behavior by a third party

Statute of Limitations

It’s important to be aware of the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim. These laws vary from state to state and can have a significant impact on your ability to seek compensation. Your attorney will ensure that all legal deadlines are met and guide you through the process.

Getting injured while on vacation can be a real source of stress, but knowing the right steps to take can make a significant difference in your recovery and ability to seek compensation. Working with an experienced personal injury attorney from the outset is crucial to protecting your rights and ensuring that you receive the support and resources you need to navigate this challenging situation.