What To Do If Your Summer Trip Takes A Turn
Summer vacation is supposed to be a time for relaxing, recharging, and making memories. But sometimes, things don’t go as planned—and an unexpected injury can change everything. Whether you were hurt in a car accident on a road trip, slipped by the hotel pool, or got injured during an excursion, it’s important to understand that being away from home doesn’t mean you’re out of options. A car accident lawyer can give you legal advice and guidance on what to do next.
Below we’ve teamed up with Mickey Keenan P.A. for them to walk you through essential steps to protect your health and your legal rights.
Common Vacation-Related Injuries
Even if you’re cautious, injuries during travel can happen in a variety of ways. Some of the most common include:
- Car accidents (especially in unfamiliar areas or with rental vehicles)
- Slips and fall at resorts, restaurants, or tourist attractions
- Boating or water sports injuries
- Theme park or amusement ride incidents
- Food poisoning or illness from unsafe conditions
- Injuries during excursions like ziplining, parasailing, or hiking
These injuries can range from minor sprains to serious trauma, especially when safety standards are overlooked by businesses or tour operators.
Step 1: Prioritize Your Health And Get Medical Attention
No matter where you are, the first step is always the same: get medical help. If your injury is serious, call emergency services or go to the nearest hospital.
If it’s less urgent:
- Visit a local urgent care center
- Document your symptoms in a journal
- Follow all medical advice and instructions
Even if you’re hoping the pain will go away on its own, a medical visit creates a record that may be crucial later if you file a claim.
Step 2: Report The Incident
If your injury happened at a business (like a hotel or restaurant) or during a guided activity, notify staff right away and ask to file an incident report. Get a copy of the report if possible.
If it was a car accident, contact the local police to file a report and request a copy for your records.
Step 3: Collect Evidence At The Scene
Photos and details are easier to gather at the time of the incident than weeks later. Be sure to document:
- The location and any hazards involved (wet floors, broken steps, etc.)
- Visible injuries
- Any safety warnings (or lack thereof)
- Contact info for witnesses
- Receipts or documentation related to the activity or booking
These details may help your attorney prove liability down the road.
Step 4: Avoid Quick Settlements From Resorts Or Insurers
It’s not uncommon for businesses to offer freebies, discounts, or even ask you to sign something after an incident—especially if they want to avoid legal issues.
Be cautious. Accepting perks or signing a waiver may jeopardize your ability to pursue a personal injury claim later.
If an insurance adjuster calls you during your trip and pressures you for a recorded statement or quick settlement, politely decline until you’ve spoken with a lawyer.
Step 5: Talk To An Attorney Who Handles Vacation Injuries
Dealing with an injury claim while you’re away from home can feel extra complicated. You may be unsure:
- Which state’s laws apply
- Whether you can sue a company in another state
- If you can still pursue compensation once you’re back home
That’s where experienced legal teams like Mickey Keenan, P.A. can help. Even if your injury didn’t happen in their home state, they often work with a trusted network of attorneys across the U.S. and can guide you toward the next right step—without pressuring you into immediate legal action.
Can You Still File A Claim After You Return Home?
Yes, in most cases you can. While jurisdiction may vary depending on where the incident occurred, many claims can still be pursued after you’re back—especially if you documented your injury and reported it properly.
Time limits (called statutes of limitations) still apply, so don’t wait too long to speak with a lawyer.
Here’s a helpful guide on how long a personal injury claim can take.
What You May Be Able To Recover
Compensation after a vacation injury isn’t limited to just your medical bills. A personal injury claim may include:
- Emergency care and treatment
- Transportation or lodging expenses due to the injury
- Lost vacation days or work time
- Ongoing treatment or rehab
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress or anxiety
When To Call An Attorney
You don’t need to be ready to sue to speak with a lawyer. If any of the following are true, it’s worth getting advice:
- You’re unsure who was at fault
- You’re dealing with unresponsive insurance or resort staff
- You missed work due to the injury
- Your medical bills are piling up
- You just want peace of mind moving forward
Even if your injury happened out of state, firms like Mickey Keenan, P.A. can help you understand your rights and connect you with local resources as needed.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let An Injury Derail Everything
No one expects to get hurt on vacation. But if you do, staying calm, gathering information, and getting the right legal guidance can help you protect yourself—both medically and financially.
The good news? You don’t have to figure it out alone. There are legal teams that have experience helping injured travelers navigate the legal aftermath of unexpected accidents. They understand the challenges of handling cases across state lines and are always ready to connect you with the right help—so you can focus on getting back on your feet.
