When we jet off on our holidays, we’re expecting an enjoyable time with our loved ones. However, occasionally, we can be involved in an accident during our stay, which is sometimes difficult to navigate. 

For those who have never sustained an injury abroad, you may be wondering what the process is for handling the incident. Fortunately, it isn’t super difficult, so you should be able to cope with what follows the accident. 

So, if you’re one of the one in three Brits heading abroad in 2024 but feel slightly apprehensive about a potential accident during your stay, we hope our guide can put your mind at ease. 

We’ll show you what the common accidents to be wary of are and the process you should follow if you suffer an injury overseas. 

What are the most common accidents abroad?

Every destination brings its own dangers. However, the most common accidents that Brits sustain abroad include: 

• Road traffic accidents 
• Slips, trips and falls in public places 
• Sports and outdoor activity incidents 
• Food or alcohol-related illnesses
• Animal bites or stings

What should I do if I have an accident abroad? 

There’s a lot to be wary of while travelling the world. If you’re involved in an accident, follow this process to navigate the aftermath with ease.

Seek medical attention

If you’re seriously injured as a result of the accident, you must speak to a medical professional. They can diagnose any issues and get you the medical treatment and medicines required to ease the pain. 

Before your holiday begins, we recommend reading the NHS’s guidance on healthcare abroad, so you know what to expect.

Contact your insurance provider

Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible as they can tell you how to report the accident abroad. They may be able to help with ongoing medical costs, recommend medical care and translate documents for you.

Exchange information 

If there’s someone else involved in the incident, you must exchange contact and insurance information. This will be essential if you need to make an insurance claim to pay for damages or medical expenses. 

Gather evidence 

You must document the accident as your insurance provider and solicitor may need it to support your claims. The best evidence you can collect includes: 

• Photos of the scene, your injury and damaged items 
• Witness information and statements 
• Medical reports 
• Lost wages 
• Medical bills 
• Other expenses 

Speak to personal injury solicitors 

If the accident abroad wasn’t your fault, you could be owed compensation to cover the many costs that have accrued as a result of the incident. Use a claims calculator to see what you may be entitled to and contact the solicitors for further advice. 

They should let you know if you have a good chance of winning the claim and how much it’ll cost.