Claim for an accident abroad

When can a claim for an accident abroad be brought?

Travel and foreign claims encompasses a wide variety of accident and personal injury claims. Some examples where we have been able to help include;

• car accidents abroad;
• overseas ‘hit and run’ accidents;
• overseas cycling accidents;
• brain injuries caused by a foreign driver;
• slips, trips and falls at a hotel abroad;
• accidents on-board an aircraft or at an airport;
• accidents on-board a cruise ship or passenger ferry;
• accidents whilst working abroad;
• accidents against a tour operator;
• accidents in the UK whilst on holiday.

Get in touch with our specialist solicitors to find out whether you can make a claim for an accident that took place overseas. It is possible to claim for accidents that occurred both within Europe, and internationally; across the United States, Asia, South America, the Middle East and Australia.

Within Europe, European law provides additional protection for claims against foreign motor vehicle insurers and this is expected to continue even if the UK leaves the European Union.

International personal injury claims can be brought when you return home, often in England & Wales. However, in some cases it may be appropriate to bring your claim overseas and we can advise you at the outset and ensure you are aware of your rights.

We will explain how and where you can bring your claim and advise you on the differences between claims brought at home and abroad.

How much compensation might I receive for a claim for an accident abroad?

The amount of compensation you might be able to claim will depend on what type of accident you had, where it happened, and whether you were travelling independently or with a tour operator. The nature and extent of the injuries you suffered also, of course, has a bearing on your claim.

In addition factors such as any loss of earnings, any medical expenses or care and support needs will affect the overall damages.

Where you have an accident while on holiday it may be possible to recover some, if not all, of the cost of the trip and travel, as well as the loss of enjoyment you and your family experienced.

How can I pay for my claim?

We can assess your claim on a ‘no win, no fee’ basis and review any insurance policies you may have which could assist with your legal expenses.

If you do not have any insurance and we believe you have a good claim, we can offer a ‘no win, no fee’ agreement, which we will explain to you clearly. We do not ask for any money up front and you will only have to pay if you are successful.

Further details on funding a claim can be found here.

What is the process of bringing a claim for an accident abroad, and how long might it take?

Firstly we will investigate the circumstances of your accident abroad and determine who is responsible. We will then consider the extent of your injuries and assess your rehabilitation needs.

We will always try to help you obtain interim payments where appropriate, to ensure you can pay for treatment, equipment and other items you may need to help your recovery while the claim is ongoing.

The overall length of a claim will depend on whether the responsible party accept they are at fault for the accident and the complexity of your injuries; however we will keep you informed throughout the process.

How long do I have to bring my claim for an accident abroad?

Depending on where you had the accident and the circumstances involved there are different time limits that apply. One of the first steps we take with you is to establish all of the accident circumstances and advise which jurisdiction, local laws and procedure will apply.

Time limits, also known as limitation periods, can vary a great deal between different countries and sometimes even between different states within a country. It is important that you get in touch as soon as possible, to find out more and ensure you remain entitled to claim compensation.

Find out more about the process of making a claim here.

What else might I need to consider when bringing a claim for an accident abroad?

Our specialist Personal Injury team has the necessary experience and connections with overseas lawyers, experts and translators to help guide you through the process. We also have foreign language speakers within the team and specialise in dealing with very serious and complex accidents, so you can be certain that your claim will be handled professionally and with sensitivity.

We have been very happy with the service provided and would have no hesitation in recommending your company to friends/family

Edna Hulford

If you booked your claim through a tour operator or a package holiday provider you can often bring a claim against them directly; whether you had the accident at a hotel, onboard an aircraft, during an airport transfer, or whilst on an excursion booked as part of the holiday. We can investigate the responsible party and determine whether the tour operator can be held responsible for the actions of those who supply services, even if they are third parties or local agents and companies.

The country you were visiting will doubtless have different laws and procedures to the UK, however this does not prevent you from making a claim. We have helped many clients bring successful claims in the past so are able to explain what is involved, whilst dealing with the legal complexities on your behalf.

What if I did not take out travel insurance, can I still claim compensation?

Taking out travel insurance is not a requirement to bringing a compensation claim for an accident overseas. We often help those injured abroad where they do not have a travel insurance policy and can offer ‘no win no fee’ agreements to individuals where appropriate.

If you do have travel insurance, you may have encountered difficulties bringing a claim through your insurance policy, for example you may not have the correct level of cover, or may be unhappy with the service from your travel insurer’s recommended solicitors. We will be happy to discuss your options with you, without any obligation for you to proceed in instructing us.