You’re hundreds or even thousands of miles from home enjoying a pleasant vacation, when you suddenly suffer a serious injury. Do you know what to do in this situation? It’s a worst-case scenario for many people, so it’s important to be prepared for unexpected events—including injury-causing accidents when you’re traveling.

At Parrish DeVaughn, we’ve helped people who’ve been through this experience, and we know how stressful and traumatic it can be. It’s common to feel helpless and overwhelmed when you’re injured and away from your support system, your doctor, and your home. Thankfully, knowing what to do in the immediate aftermath of a vacation injury can make a big difference when it comes to protecting your health and your rights to compensation.

The 6 Steps You Should Take When You Get Injured Away from Home

An injury can derail any trip, whether it’s an exotic vacation or a quick weekend getaway. Here’s what to do if you get hurt while you’re traveling:

1. Report the accident—If your injury occurred in a public space, notify the manager on duty or another employee. If you were hurt on private property, notify the property owner. If you were injured in an auto accident, call 911 or alert the police.
2. Photograph the accident scene—Use your smartphone or your camera to take pictures of the accident scene. Photograph your injuries and any factors that may have contributed to the accident.
3. Get contact information—Get the names and telephone numbers of people who witnessed the accident or who oversee the venue where you were injured.
4. See a doctor—Go to the hospital or visit a doctor right away. In addition to creating a medical record of your injuries, you’ll also get treated for injuries that may not be apparent yet.
5. Report your injury to your insurance providers—If you were hurt in an auto accident, you’re required to report the accident to your auto insurer. You should also report any injuries to your travel insurance provider if you purchased coverage before your vacation.
6. Contact a lawyer—Just because your injury occurred away from home doesn’t mean you can’t pursue compensation. Don’t forgo the money you’re owed due to another party’s negligence.

It can be difficult to remember these steps when you’re traveling, let alone after a traumatic and painful injury. Our free downloadable wallet card can help you take the right steps after a vacation injury.

Get a Law Firm That Understands Vacation Injuries

Getting hurt on vacation is the nightmare scenario. Our Oklahoma City personal injury lawyers know that travel-related injuries require considerations that aren’t always applicable to other types of injuries. That’s why it’s important to get a law firm on your side that knows what you’re going through and knows how to build a strong claim that maximizes your chances of getting compensation. Contact us today for a free consultation—we want to help you get the money you deserve.