What to Do If You’re in An Accident While on Vacation?
- January 3, 2020
- Sandy
LOS ANGELES — Enjoying a relaxing vacation to get away from the hustle and bustle of life might be just what the doctor ordered. What many don’t plan on is an unexpected accident that leaves them seriously injured and unable to return to work. This nightmare scenario can leave a family financially hurting and enduring lingering suffering for years to come. It doesn’t matter if you live in Los Angeles or you’re visiting from out of town, you deserve fair compensation to help you recover from any injuries suffered due to another’s negligence.
If your vacation has been set back by a personal injury accident, the Los Angeles personal injury attorneys at The Barnes Firm are helpful and driven to get you the best possible result from a claim.
Common Injuries that Happen While Vacationing
Every year, Los Angeles welcomes millions of tourists to its beautiful landscapes and hot spots. Just as in other areas across the U.S., it’s important to exercise caution when visiting California to avoid unexpected traffic hazards or getting hurt due to negligent property management at a hotel or amusement park.
Some of the more common accidents people experience while vacationing in Los Angeles include:
- Traffic accidents
- Injuries related to crime
- Slips, trips, and falls
- Boating Accidents
- Pedestrian Accidents
- Bicycling Accidents
We believe that all accidents are preventable. That means service providers like drivers, businesses and others need to do their part to avoid negligence. For those on vacation who do get hurt, it’s imperative they speak with an experienced Los Angeles personal injury attorney about their case right away to make sure they’re meeting the required deadlines to help get the best result possible.
Who’s Responsible for Injuries While Vacationing?
Throughout the U.S., many states make it a property owner’s responsibility to keep their premises safe and free of potential hazards. The transportation industry is equally responsible, along with entertainment venues and restaurants.
Some of the most common negligent personal injury cases involve some of the following scenarios:
- Poor lighting
- Loose or missing handrails
- Not removing slip and fall hazards like debris or standing water from floors and pathways
- Reckless driving
- Stepping in areas that are in disrepair or damaged
- Not providing proper security to ward against crime
- Not using warning signs for slick or wet areas
- Malfunction of an entertainment device like a roller coaster
These hazards aren’t just liabilities for commercial, governmental, and residential properties, but also businesses and individuals. Any time someone knowingly ignores or causes a dangerous situation, or should reasonably have known about the risk, they could risk a personal injury suit if someone gets hurt.
Steps to Take If You are Hurt While on Vacation
One of the worst parts of getting hurt while vacationing is figuring out how to handle the situation. You’re away from home and your regular doctor, and possibly away from family or friends. What can you do to protect your rights and health?
Notify the People in Charge
It’s important to notify the appropriate people if you get hurt on vacation. Whether you’re at a restaurant in Hollywood or on the Santa Monica Pier, you need to contact an appropriate manager of the business or the police.
Get Documentation
Pictures tell a thousand words and are one of the strongest ways to document the injury, the conditions surrounding it, and the parties involved. If you’re unable to take photos, ask someone with you or who witnessed the incident to do so on your behalf.
See a Doctor
Even if you think it’s possible to walk off your injury, you should always get evaluated by a medical professional after experiencing an accident. Many injuries have delayed onsets like whiplash or muscle strain, and the shock of your experience may not let you fully register the effects on your body right away.
Obtain Contact Information
It’s essential to get the contact information of the parties involved with or who you think is liable for your personal injury. You must remember to get those same details from treating doctors, police, and anyone else that may have witnessed your accident. Witnesses could help prove your claim if you have to go to trial.
Don’t Admit Fault
If you experience an accident situation in a cab or while walking down steps at your hotel, you may have to speak with your insurance company about your injuries. Remember to avoid talking about who was at fault until you have an attorney to represent you.
Consult With a Personal Injury Attorney in Los Angeles
Trust your case to a reputable injury attorney in Los Angeles to advise you on the next best steps for your personal injury claim. If you’re an out-of-towner, it’s wise to speak with a knowledgeable LA personal injury lawyer since laws vary from state to state. Put your trust in established counsel that has a proven track record of success in personal injury claims.
An experienced personal injury attorney will help secure compensation for damages after a vacation accident, including:
- Medical expenses
- Loss of wages and future work
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma
- Quality of life issues
The LA personal injury attorneys with The Barnes Firm have fought tirelessly to secure the deserved compensation victims need to replace damaged property and try to rebuild their lives after injury. The Million Dollar Advocates Forum recognizes The Barnes Firm’s ability to successfully bring personal injury claims to trial and bring clients more than just the average settlement offers. Contact a highly-qualified attorney today to learn more about how their services will benefit your case.
The Barnes Firm (800) 800-0000
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