What to Do if You’re Injured on Holiday?

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Simona Jellinek /
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What to Do if You’re Injured on Holiday?

What to Do if You’re Injured on Holiday?

Since all-inclusive vacations don't typically cover exorbitant hospital bills, taking a few precautions before you leave - and keeping a few helpful tips in mind once you arrive - can help protect you and your loved ones from unexpected challenges.

Before You Leave

Unless you're heading off on a spur-of-the-moment getaway, you'll likely have plenty of time between planning your vacation and departure to prepare for the unlikely - but real - possibility that something could go wrong:

• Ensure that all your routine vaccinations are up to date. It is advisable to carry a copy of your immunization record and an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis, if required.

• Plan to bring at least one to two weeks' worth of extra prescription medication

• Pack a first-aid kit

• The Canadian government also advises you to carry a contact card that includes information such as: the name, address and phone number of a family member or friend in Canada; the name and phone number of your health care provider in Canada, and addresses and phone numbers of your accommodations at your destination(s), hospitals or clinics at your destination(s), and the Canadian Embassy, Consulate or High Commission office in your destination country/countries.

It is essential to purchase travel insurance if your vacation takes you out of the country.

You can purchase trip interruption and travel health insurance through your or your employer's insurance company, as well as through travel agents, insurance brokers, credit card companies, and banks.

At minimum, the Canadian government advises that your travel health insurance policy should cover medical evacuation (to Canada or the nearest place with appropriate medical care)

Some Canadians injured while traveling abroad without adequate travel health insurance have been shocked to discover that they're personally responsible for all healthcare costs beyond what their provincial health insurance plan or private insurance covers.

During Travel To/From

If you are driving to your destination or while abroad, check with your provider to ensure you have sufficient coverage for motor vehicle accidents.

It's advisable to purchase optional coverage that provides at least $2 million for medical and rehabilitative costs, extends coverage to family members.

Many people travel internationally by plane. In the event that you are injured during your flight-or at any point between boarding and disembarking-you may be entitled to seek compensation under the Montreal Convention.

Although the Convention only applies in signatory countries, passengers can seek compensation if any part of their international travel takes place (or would have occurred) in a country that adopted the treaty.

Injured While Away

If you or a loved one are injured or harmed while abroad, your top priority should always be to seek medical attention.

Once the injured person is medically stabilized and out of immediate danger, consider doing the following if and when possible:

• Take photos or videos of the scene of the accident

• Make notes about everything you remember as soon as you are able.

• Collect the names and contact information of any witnesses to the accident.

• Never admit your own potential liability to anyone at the site of an accident. If police are involved, only make factual statements.

• Obtain as much documentation as possible before returning to Canada.

• Do not sign anything that you do not understand or cannot understand due to a language barrier.

Once You Are Home

If an insurer disputes aspects of your coverage, an experienced personal injury lawyer can help negotiate a fair resolution or, if necessary, pursue the matter in court.

If you are injured abroad, you will generally be expected to pursue a civil tort claim in the country where the injury occurred.

Cross-border personal injury cases are often legally complex. It's crucial to choose an accident lawyer or firm with the knowledge and experience to handle these matters effectively.