Travel Injury: What To Do If You Are Hurt While Traveling
Whether you are planning a month-long backpacking trip in Europe or a weekend getaway in a nearby town, accidents can happen at any point during a vacation. Traveling can put you in various risky situations, from overexposure to the elements to more strenuous activities such as ziplining or diving. While it may seem like a buzzkill to think about unexpected mishaps while organizing a trip, it doesn’t hurt to have a plan in case of injury. Here are a few ways you can prepare for and respond to such unfortunate circumstances.
Venturing outside of the country typically means temporarily leaving your health insurance network. Read your existing medical policy thoroughly and talk to your insurance agent to find out what coverage you have outside of the United States. If you are not protected, consider investing in medical travel insurance, which provides coverage for any emergency medical treatment you might receive in another country. Travel insurance can offer peace of mind and financial savings in case the unthinkable happens.
If your trip involves hiking, swimming or other outdoor activities, consider packing protective gear such as sunscreen, insect repellent, life jackets, goggles, safety gloves and helmets. Don’t forget a first-aid kit and medical-grade tools to treat any minor injuries. Before your vacation, research local hospitals and nearby medical facilities, since you likely won’t have time to do so in the event of a serious health or safety crisis.
Seek immediate medical attention for injuries related to car accidents, sexual assault, animal bites or scratches and fevers of 103 degrees Fahrenheit or above. If you have travel insurance, contact the provider to advise them of the situation and seek guidance as to where you should go to receive the appropriate care. Notify the relevant authorities of the incident, whether it be the local police or the establishment where you sustained the injury.
Upon your return home, consult with a medical professional and tell him or her of any wounds and subsequent treatments. This will help your doctor monitor your progress and continue care if needed.
Doing your due diligence and developing a safety plan before traveling domestically or internationally can increase the likelihood that you receive the best care possible in the event of an accident. To learn more about what to do if you are injured while traveling, check out the accompanying infographic.
Author bio: Donald J. Nolan is a nationally acclaimed lawyer and founder of Nolan Law Group, which has become one of the nation’s most prestigious and well-recognized plaintiff firms. In the area of aviation law, Nolan has represented the rights of victims and families in air disasters around the world. His work has led to the redesign of several safety systems and defective components of major commercial and general aviation aircraft.
Provided by Nolan Law Group a Chicago brain injury law firm
