If you have had an accident or been injured while on holiday or travelling abroad, you may be entitled to claim compensation, just as you would for an accident in the UK.
However, the process can be more complex due to differences in legal systems, time limits, and insurance policies. This guide explains the basics to help you understand your rights and what steps to take.
What would count as an accident abroad?
An “accident abroad” can include:
- Road traffic accidents while driving or as a passenger
- Slips, trips, or falls in hotels, restaurants, or public places
- Accidents during excursions or sporting activities
- Injuries on cruise ships or during flights
Can you claim compensation?
If the accident was caused by someone else’s negligence / fault, then you may be able to make a claim.
For example if:
- A hotel failed to fix a broken handrail
- A tour operator didn’t follow safety procedures
- Another driver caused a road accident
then you can look to make a claim for compensation of the injuries and financial losses that you may have incurred.
If your trip was booked as a package holiday through a UK-based company, you may be able to claim under UK law, which can simplify the process.
If not, you may need to claim under the laws of the country where the accident occurred.
What should you do after an accident?
1. Seek medical attention and keep all medical records and receipts.
2. Report the incident – inform your travel representative, hotel, or the local authorities.
3. Gather evidence – take photos, collect witness details, and keep receipts for expenses.
4. Contact your travel insurer – notify them as soon as possible.
5. Speak to a solicitor – a specialist in personal injury claims can advise on your rights and next steps.
Time limits for making a claim
Time limits vary depending on where the accident happened.
In the UK, you usually have three years from the date of the injury to start legal proceedings.
However, some countries have much shorter deadlines – sometimes as little as one year – so it is important to act quickly if you wish to make a claim.
How much compensation could you receive?
Compensation can cover:
- Pain and suffering
- Medical expenses
- Loss of earnings
- Travel costs
- Future care needs
The amount depends on the severity of your injury and the impact on your life.
Do you need a Solicitor?
Yes – especially for accidents abroad. A solicitor experienced in international personal injury claims can:
- Assess whether you have a valid claim
- Handle communication with foreign insurers or legal teams
- Ensure your claim is filed within the correct time limit
- Help you access medical experts and translators if needed
Contact us
If you’ve been injured abroad and want to know whether you can make a claim, please contact Louise Plant on 01473 232121 or at lplant@prettys.co.uk to see if we can help.
You can also visit our dedicated Personal injury pages here for more detailed information and support resources.
