accidents abroad - what to do
We all look forward to our holiday and nobody wants to think
about something going wrong. We hate to be the harbingers of doom,
but the reality is things can go wrong and the consequences can
ruin more than a holiday. It is important to know what to do after
an accident, to be able to lessen the impact. Firstly, before you
go, make sure that you have adequate insurance.
The process of making a claim abroad is often more convoluted,
difficult and less rewarding than making a claim in the UK. If you
are unlucky enough to be involved in any type of incident abroad,
it is imperative to seek the correct medical advice as early as
possible. This may require you notifying your own insurers of the
incident to ensure the medical expenses are covered. At the same
time, it is also important to get as much information and evidence,
as early as possible, as time is of the essence. Crucial evidence
can literally disappear and with it the ability to recover anything
for the losses that you have suffered.
It will not always be practical, or possible, to get all of the
following, but the more information you are able to gather will
enhance your chances of bringing a successful action.
some key tips
- Obtain as much information as possible about the person who you
feel is at fault for the incident. This should include their full
name, address and insurance company and any registration number if
the matter is a road traffic accident.
- Report the matter to the holiday representative and any
necessary authority. In some cases this could be the police.
- Photographic evidence of the accident scene and/or cause of the
injuries is always helpful and often crucial.
- If you have medical treatment, ask for a copy of the notes
confirming the treatment received.
- Get the details of any witnesses and anyone else injured. They
do not need to give you a full written statement at the time and
contact details will suffice. It is virtually impossible to confirm
their details after you have returned home.
- Keep original receipts of all expenses incurred.
- Keep your travel documents.
For further information or advice, please contact Julie
Remmington in our Travel team on 023 8085 7318 or email
julie.remmington@bllaw.co.uk.
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