An accident or illness abroad is something we could all do without. If the worst does happen while you are away then you may be entitled to make a claim for compensation. Thousands have the misfortune to be injured every year while abroad on holiday or working. Specialist advice should be taken from a Qualitysolicitors’ lawyer as soon as possible.

Can I make a claim?

If you sustain injury or suffer illness while abroad there are laws which are there to protect you. There are many different situations which may give rise to a claim. If in doubt seek advice. Some common examples are listed below:

Holidays:

If you are on holiday and suffer an injury which is the fault of another then you may be able to claim. This would cover situations such as food poisoning in the hotel or a badly maintained or dangerous swimming pool. The Package Travel, Package Tours and Package Holidays Regulations 1992 may apply which give distinct rights to victims of accidents abroad and may enable a claim to be brought in the UK. If your holiday was not part of a package deal under the regulations then a claim may still be possible against the hotel or excursion provider.

Road Accidents:

If you are injured in a road traffic collision whilst abroad and the accident was the fault of another then you may be able to make a claim. This could be whilst driving a hire car or as a passenger on a coach or in a taxi. It may well be possible to bring the claim in the UK even though the accident happened abroad. The best thing to do is to ensure the police are informed at the time of the accident and to keep relevant paperwork. You should then seek legal advice to protect your position in relation to time limits which vary between countries.

Serious & Catastrophic Injuries:

Our lawyers have expertise in dealing with serious and catastrophic injuries. Such injuries could include brain and spinal cord injuries. These claims require the very best specialist advice. Victims in such situations often sustain large financial losses and require specialist care and rehabilitation for specific medical needs.

The best advice if you have been injured abroad is to speak to a lawyer as soon as possible. The only way to ensure your rights are protected is to seek specialist legal advice.

What should I do?

Depending on the type and location of the accident it should be reported as soon as possible to your employer or the travel representative or to the appropriate authority. Witness details should be obtained and all relevant paperwork should be retained. Photographs should be taken if appropriate. Paperwork and receipts in relation to any medical treatment and expenses should be retained also. If in doubt keep everything.

How much compensation will I receive?

We aim to maximise the amount of compensation you will receive. A number of factors will be taken into account including the pain and suffering caused by the condition, financial losses (such as loss of earnings and travelling expenses) and costs of care and assistance. The aim is to put you back in the position you would have been had you not suffered the injury in the first place. Nobody wants to suffer injury while abroad. The law seeks to remedy this with financial compensation.

When must I claim?

Personal injury claims are subject to strict time limits. By law, you must submit your claim to the UK Court within 3 years of your injury. If the claim is to be brought in a foreign country then these time limits do vary and can be as little as 12 months. Any delay may mean that you lose your right to make a claim. The best advice is to speak to a lawyer as soon as possible.