Vacation is a time to get away and relax with your family or friends, but do you know what to do if you’re injured while abroad? If you’re hurt when shopping or doing an activity in your hometown, you probably know what to do and who to call. Depending on the extent of the injury, you might seek medical attention by calling 9-1-1.
If you’re in an unfamiliar place on vacation, would you know what to do?
How Injuries Occur on Vacation
When we’re away from our home in places we don’t visit often, we have a tendency to get injured easier. This can happen because you’re in an unfamiliar environment and while you’re trying to “take it all in”, you fall and get hurt. When you’re on vacation, you may also try to do things you wouldn’t otherwise do at home such as; riding a scooter, doing an extreme sport, or visiting unknown areas.
There may be other risks associated with your destination as well. Other common travel injuries could include:
- Traffic Accidents: Accidents happen in every country, but when you travel the risks may be greater due to relaxed traffic laws or being unfamiliar with traffic patterns. Roads may not be as well-maintained as you’re used to and there may be more reckless drivers. The risk of an accident is even higher if you’re the one behind the wheel on unfamiliar roads. Traffic accidents can also be applied to pedestrian crossings and other forms of transportation such as buses, taxis and scooters. Always be aware of your surroundings and move at a slower pace than you would at home.
- Crime: In countries that attract a lot of tourists, petty crime can cause injury. Unfortunately, tourists can be targeted due to them being naive and oblivious to their surroundings.
To help reduce the risk of injuries while traveling, always book activities and accommodations with reputable companies by checking reviews and credentials.
Insurance
There can be many risks associated with traveling so you should always make sure you have the proper insurance before embarking on your vacation. Private insurance companies may not cover an injury sustained while abroad so you’ll need to do your research and check with the company that insures you and your employer to determine if you’ll be adequately covered in the event an injury is sustained.
Travel insurance can be a good idea especially if you’re visiting a foreign country. This can help cover things such as emergency care and transport back to the United States. Travel insurance may also be available for purchase on the specific activity you’re planning on participating in. If travel insurance is purchased with emergency care coverage, reimbursement of accrued costs may be available. This could include doctor visits, hospital charges and medical transportation services.
While they’re oftentimes used interchangeably, trip insurance and travel insurance are not the same things.
Trip insurance refers to things that are considered a financial loss, such as lost baggage or canceled flights.
Travel insurance is a type of health insurance policy that works while in another country.
Can You Be Compensated For Injuries?
While in the United States, if you sustain an injury, you may be eligible for compensation. However, this may not be the case in another country.
There are a few factors that decide if you can produce an injury claim while in another country. The biggest factor that decides whether or not you can file a claim for an injury in another country is their legal system. Speaking with a lawyer will help you figure out the best steps to take.
If you’re injured in another country, make sure you have all the proper medical documents with you and document everything you can. Once you arrive back in the United States, speak with a lawyer to help you decide what to do legally.
Friedman Law Offices is here to help you. Give us a call today for a FREE case consultation and let us help you get the compensation you deserve.
402.476.1093