For the majority of people, an annual trip overseas is a relaxing or rejuvenating occasion filled with happy memories. However, unfortunately, for some holidaymakers, taking a vacation can result in an injury or illness whilst abroad. There are a number of scenarios in which accident commonly occur on holiday. One of the most common is an injury associated with a sporting activity such as skiing, water sports or swimming. Other common issues include food poisoning or slips and trips whilst in a hotel complex.
Since January 2006, all Britons have been entitled to free medical treatment in European Union countries plus Norway, Liechtenstein, Switzerland and Iceland by obtaining a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) – a replacement for the E111 document.
With the EHIC, holidaymakers have access to public healthcare facilities and treatment is either free or discounted, depending on the country in which you suffer the injury or illness. Many people choose to supplement this free provision with travel insurance, to cover them in the event of a medical issue, particularly if they are travelling outside Europe to a country where the EHIC is invalid. This often gives vacationers access to private medical care as well as public facilities.
If the accident you have suffered whilst on holiday is through the fault of another party, you are entitled to make injury claims against the person or organisation responsible. For instance, if you slipped on a wet floor in the hotel or you weren’t given a full safety briefing before undertaking a water sports activity.
