Family holidays are meant to be a time of rest, fun, and togetherness. Whether it’s a short break in the Highlands or a summer abroad, accidents are the last thing anyone expects. But if someone in your family gets injured while away, knowing what steps to take next is vital. Keep reading to discover all there is to know about how to handle injury claims after a family holiday.
Prioritise medical attention first
No matter how minor the injury may seem, medical help should always come first. Make sure the injured person is seen by a medical professional. This creates a formal record of the injury, which will be essential if you decide to make a claim later.
If the accident happens abroad, request a copy of the medical report in English or have it translated as soon as possible. Retain all receipts, discharge forms, and prescriptions, these documents support the seriousness of the situation.
Document what happened
Once immediate care is handled, take time to record the details of the accident. This includes:
- Date, time, and exact location
- What caused the injury
- Names and contact details of any witnesses
- Photographs of the scene and injury
The more thorough your documentation, the better. Having a clear timeline will support your case, especially if you need to pursue a legal route.
Understand your rights to claim
Many people are unsure whether they can claim for an injury that occurred outside the UK. In most cases, you might still be eligible to claim compensation, particularly if the holiday was booked through a UK-based travel agent or tour operator.
Under Package Travel Regulations, tour companies have a duty of care to keep you safe during your stay. If their negligence led to the injury, you could make a claim when you return. If the accident happened in Scotland, England, or Wales during a staycation, then standard personal injury laws apply.
This is where Jones Whyte can offer essential guidance. As one of Scotland’s leading law firms, their personal injury team provides clear, straightforward legal advice and can support you through the full claims process.
Know the Time Limits
In most cases, personal injury claims must be made within three years from the date of the accident. If the injured person is under 16, the countdown begins from their 16th birthday. That said, it’s always best to seek legal advice sooner rather than later, as evidence becomes harder to collect with time.
Consider the Impact on Family Life
An injury on holiday doesn’t just affect the person hurt, it can throw the whole household into disarray. Missed work, additional care needs, emotional strain, and financial stress often follow. These factors can all form part of the claim if they have directly resulted from the injury.
Solicitors look at loss of earnings, medical bills, travel costs, and ongoing care to assess how much compensation you may be entitled to. They may also consider emotional distress and the disruption to family life.
Closing Remarks
Nobody wants to remember their holiday for the wrong reasons. But if things do go wrong, taking clear steps early can protect your family’s future and help you recover both financially and emotionally. Injury claims may feel complex, but the right legal support makes a real difference.
Disclosure: This is a featured post.