A holiday abroad should be a time to relax, unwind, and enjoy new experiences. However, accidents can and do happen overseas, and when they do, they can quickly turn your dream getaway into a stressful ordeal. If you live in Egham and have been injured while travelling abroad, you may be entitled to compensation under UK law.
In this guide, we explore your rights when it comes to accidents abroad, the process of making a holiday injury claim, and how Marley Solicitors can help you secure the compensation you deserve.
Understanding holiday injury claims
Holiday injury claims arise when a person is injured during a trip abroad due to the negligence or fault of another party. These claims often fall under personal injury law but may involve additional complexities due to jurisdictional differences, travel agreements, and international regulations.
Common causes of holiday injuries
Holiday-related accidents can happen in a wide variety of situations. Some of the most common scenarios include:
- Slips, trips or falls in hotels or resorts
- Swimming pool accidents
- Road traffic accidents while using local transport or hire cars
- Injuries during excursions or sporting activities
- Food poisoning or other illnesses caused by poor hygiene
- Accidents on cruise ships or ferries
- Injuries at airports or during flights
Whether your injury occurred while staying in a package holiday hotel, using transport arranged by a tour operator, or participating in a booked activity, it is vital to understand your legal rights.
Can I make a claim from the UK?
Yes, in many cases, UK residents can make a claim for an injury sustained abroad, especially if the holiday was booked as part of a package holiday under The Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018.
If you booked your trip through a UK-based travel company or tour operator, they may be held responsible for the negligence of overseas providers. This allows you to pursue your claim under UK law, which simplifies the process significantly.
However, if you independently arranged or directly booked your holiday with foreign providers, you may need to pursue a claim in the local jurisdiction. This can be more complex and may require expert legal support.
How long do I have to make a claim?
Three years from the date of the accident is often the time restriction for filing a personal injury claim, also referred to as the limitation period. However, depending on the nation where the incident happened, there may be different time limits for injuries sustained overseas.
Some countries have shorter timeframes, such as two years or even less. It is essential to seek legal advice as soon as possible after your accident to avoid missing critical deadlines.
What should I do if I am injured on holiday?
If you suffer an injury while on holiday, your immediate focus should be on seeking medical attention. However, taking the right steps early on can significantly strengthen your future compensation claim:
- Report the incident to the hotel, travel representative or local authorities
- Take photographs of the scene, your injuries and any contributing hazards
- Get witness details in case statements are needed later
- Keep medical records and receipts for treatment or related expenses
- Contact your travel insurer to report the injury
- Seek legal advice upon your return to the UK
Even if you are unsure whether your accident qualifies for a claim, it is worth discussing your situation with a solicitor who specialises in holiday injury claims.
How much compensation could I receive?
The amount of compensation awarded for a holiday injury claim depends on several factors, including:
- The severity of your injury
- The impact on your daily life and ability to work
- Pain and suffering endured
- Medical expenses and ongoing treatment costs
- Out-of-pocket expenses, including travel and accommodation
- Loss of enjoyment of the holiday
Compensation is typically split into general damages (for pain, suffering and loss of amenity) and special damages (for financial losses). At Marley Solicitors, we will provide an honest, tailored estimate based on your unique circumstances.
Why choose Marley Solicitors if you live in Egham?
As a local firm with experience in handling personal injury cases, Marley Solicitors is proud to represent clients in Egham and the surrounding areas. We understand the challenges involved in bringing a claim for an accident abroad and can guide you through the entire process with empathy and professionalism.
Here’s how we can help:
- No win, no fee agreements available for eligible cases
- Experienced in international personal injury law
- Tailored advice based on your travel arrangements
- Local accessibility for Egham residents via in-person meetings or remote consultations
- Efficient claims handling to minimise stress and maximise results
We believe in clear communication, realistic expectations, and putting your needs first at every step of your legal journey.
Do I need travel insurance to make a claim?
While having travel insurance is recommended and can support your recovery and medical costs abroad, it is not essential to make a personal injury claim in the UK. Compensation through legal proceedings can often cover costs not paid by insurers or fill in gaps where insurers refuse to pay.
That said, your insurance provider may require you to report the injury promptly, and a copy of your policy can be useful evidence when making your claim.
Will I have to go to court?
Most holiday injury claims are resolved through negotiation and do not require a court appearance. However, if the other party disputes liability or offers an inadequate settlement, your case may proceed to court.
At Marley Solicitors, we aim to resolve matters as efficiently as possible while securing the full amount you are entitled to. If your claim does go to court, we will prepare thoroughly and support you throughout the process.
Get started with your holiday injury claim today
If you are based in Egham and have suffered an accident while travelling abroad, don’t suffer in silence. Marley Solicitors is here to provide trusted legal advice and help you claim the compensation you are entitled to.
The sooner you take action, the better your chances of building a strong case. Contact our friendly team today for a free consultation.
Marley Solicitors – your trusted personal injury solicitors in Egham
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