Accidents on holiday
A study carried out by the Post Office in 2015 showed that a staggering 4.4 million people sustained injuries on trips abroad over a 3 year period.
Suffering an accident or being taken ill while on holiday is the last thing that anyone wants or expects. Whether you were supposed to be sightseeing, skiing or relaxing by the pool, an accident or illness could really throw a spanner in the works when it comes to enjoying your getaway.
Not only could getting injured or sick ruin a well-earned break, it could also result in financial loss. You may have spent money on accommodation, entertainment, food and drink and excursions you’re no longer able to enjoy due to injury or illness. You may also have to fork out to pay for expensive medical bills while abroad. And when you return home, you might have to continue to pay for medical treatment and you could be unable to work for a period of time due to your accident or illness. In some cases, being involved in an accident abroad could have life-changing and long-term consequences.
If you’ve been injured or become sick through no fault of your own while on holiday, you may be entitled to make a compensation claim. Contact us today to find holiday accidents claims solicitors you can trust to get the compensation you deserve.
Examples of holiday accidents and illnesses
Holiday accidents and illnesses can take many forms. Here are some of the most common types:
- Slips, trips and falls – these can happen as a result of badly maintained accommodation flooring, slippery staircases or defective footpaths, for example.
- Road traffic accidents – whether the accident was caused by the driver of another vehicle, the driver of a taxi, coach or bus you were travelling in, a faulty vehicle or a poorly maintained traffic or road signal, you could have a claim. You may even have a right to compensation if you were partially at fault.
- Cycling accidents – you may experience an accident because the equipment you hired was faulty or you may be involved in a collision with another road user. Whatever the reason, if you are not at fault, you may have a right to compensation.
- Activity or excursion injuries – whether you’ve been boating, quad biking or taking an organised sightseeing tour, you may have a claim if you sustain an injury through no fault of your own while taking part in an organised activity or excursion.
- Swimming pool accidents – injuries and illnesses can be caused by malfunctioning drainage systems, faulty water filtration systems, broken or loose tiles, poor pool depth signage and excessive chemicals in the water.
- Skiing injuries – you may have a skiing accident if you haven’t received sufficient or proper training from a trained instructor, the equipment you hired was faulty or machinery such as ski lifts were not operated properly or were faulty.
- Food poisoning – this can occur at hotels and restaurants when food is undercooked or hygiene standards are not adhered to. It can also happen as a result of food being left out in a buffet for too long in warm weather.
- Cruise ship illnesses – unfortunately, cruise ships are often associated with food poisoning and viral outbreaks. You may be able to make a claim if you’ve suffered illnesses such as salmonella, norovirus, e-coli and campylobacter, among others.
- Assault – whether you’re at home or abroad, you have a right to personal safety. If you have been the victim of an attack such as a mugging, stabbing or shooting or if you have been raped or sexually assaulted, you may be entitled to compensation.
Am I entitled to make a claim for an accident on holiday?
If you’ve had an accident or suffered an illness that’s not your fault while on holiday, you may be able to make a personal injury claim. However, it’s important that you act fast as there may be limitations on how much time you have to make a claim. In many cases, adults have three years from the date of the accident to make a claim. However, this can vary so it’s best to seek professional advice at the earliest opportunity.
You should also ensure you see a doctor and gather as much evidence and information as possible after the accident takes place in order to strengthen your case.
How much compensation will I be awarded?
The compensation for holiday accident claims varies depending on the type of accident or illness involved, the severity of the accident or illness and how much financial loss you’ve suffered as a result. Other factors, such as the mental and emotional repercussions, will also be taken into account.
Find and compare holiday accident compensation claims solicitors
Suffering an accident or illness while on holiday can be upsetting and, in some cases, devastating. But with a specialist personal injury lawyer by your side, you are in the best position possible to claim the maximum amount of compensation you’re entitled to. Compare accident on holiday claims solicitors and find the right one for you today.