Know your rights after being injured on vacation
Vacations are supposed to be full of fun, relaxation and occasionally, some adventure. Unfortunately, not all vacations end well, especially when an accident or injury occurs while on vacation.
There are several types of vacations that are commonly associated with a higher risk of being injured. These types of vacations usually involve more travelling or adventurous activities like hiking, skiing, surfing and other activities that involve adventurous excursions.
Reports show that more adventurous vacations have risks and that accidents usually happen more frequently. The National Ski Areas Association reported that 54 skiers and snowboarders died in accidents on the slopes last year alone. Parasailing, another common activity for vacationers in Florida and California contributed to 70 deaths in the last 30 years in the U.S.
While riskier activities on vacation can put travelers at a higher risk for being injured, the most common type of accident for people on vacation is being in a car accident. Government reports said that roughly 36,200 people were killed in car accidents last year, making driving one of the most dangerous activities for people on vacation.
Many vacations are interrupted by minor injuries or accidents. Most of the time, families are able to continue having fun on vacation after someone suffers a minor injury. However, when someone is seriously injured or hurt in an accident on vacation, it can be very difficult to know what next steps to take.
What can someone do who has been injured in accident while on vacation? People injured in an accident during vacation in another state should know their rights. Even if the vacation is over and you are back home, it is still beneficial to consult a personal injury attorney to discuss your specific case and see if the accident was caused by someone else's negligence. If so, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and other damages.
Source: Huffington Post, "Adventure travel grows despite occasional disaster," Beth J. Harpaz, Feb. 26, 2013
Our law firm represents victims injured while on vacation. To learn more about our law firm and how we can help, please visit our personal injury page.