Going on holiday should be a time of rest, adventure, and fun. Yet accidents abroad can and do happen, and when they do, they can quickly turn your break into a stressful experience. An injury abroad claim is a type of personal injury claim that allows you to pursue compensation if you were hurt while travelling outside the UK, whether it was on a package holiday, a flight, or during an excursion.
For Preston residents, the situation can feel even more overwhelming when you return home and are unsure of your rights. With Preston being a city where many families regularly travel from Manchester Airport or Liverpool John Lennon Airport, the risk of dealing with accidents abroad is not uncommon. Understanding how injury abroad claims work, and knowing where to turn for legal help, can make all the difference in protecting your health and finances.
What is an injury abroad claim?
An injury abroad claim allows UK holidaymakers to seek compensation if they suffer accidents that were not their fault while travelling. These claims are often made under UK package travel regulations, meaning your tour operator or holiday company may be liable if they failed to ensure safe conditions.
Common scenarios include:
- Slips, trips, and falls at hotels or resorts
- Food poisoning at restaurants or all-inclusive venues
- Road traffic accidents abroad
- Excursion accidents, such as water sports or adventure activities
- Illnesses caused by poor hygiene standards
In Preston, many holidaymakers return to Royal Preston Hospital, Fulwood Hall Hospital, or local GP surgeries for follow-up care after accidents abroad. This reinforces why it is important to seek medical attention both at the time of the accident and once you are back in the UK.
Can I claim compensation for an accident abroad in Preston?
Yes, you can often pursue compensation for an accident abroad if the incident was caused by negligence. The process will depend on whether you booked a package holiday or arranged the trip independently. Marley Solicitors frequently helps Preston residents establish liability and guides them through the claims process.
If you booked your trip as a package holiday, you can file a claim in the UK against the travel company. If your trip was independent, the process may be more complex but still possible with the right legal support.
Steps to take if you are injured abroad
If you sustain an injury while on vacation, you should take the following practical steps to safeguard your right to compensation:
- Please promptly seek medical attention at a local hospital or clinic.
- Report the incident to the hotel, tour operator, or local authorities.
- Collect evidence, including photographs, medical reports, and witness details.
- Keep receipts of any costs, such as taxis to hospital or medication.
- Contact a solicitor experienced in injury abroad claims as soon as possible after returning to Preston.
Why local knowledge matters for Preston residents
In Preston, residents often rely on Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust for continuing treatment once they return from abroad. Having a solicitor who understands both the international claims process and the local healthcare landscape is crucial.
For example:
- Students from UCLan who travel abroad on study programmes may need support after medical issues overseas.
- Families travelling from Preston on budget airlines are often affected by hotel or transfer accidents.
- Commuters from Preston to Manchester Airport frequently book package deals through major UK operators.
Marley Solicitors has supported clients in Preston with a wide range of personal injury cases, including holiday accidents, and ensures claims are managed with both legal expertise and local sensitivity.
Why choose Marley Solicitors for Preston injury abroad claims?
Choosing the right solicitor is key to achieving a positive outcome. Marley Solicitors is trusted across the North West because we:
- Have years of experience handling holiday accident and personal injury cases
- Provide clear, practical advice that avoids legal jargon
- Work with medical experts across Preston to strengthen your claim
- Aim to secure the maximum possible compensation for your situation
- Offer support on a no win no fee basis, so you do not face financial risk when making a claim
Our team combines national-level expertise with a strong understanding of Preston’s local community needs.
How much compensation could I receive for an accident abroad?
The amount of compensation depends on several factors:
- The severity of your injury
- The impact on your daily life and work
- The cost of medical treatment abroad and in Preston
- Any financial losses, such as lost earnings or cancelled plans
Our solicitors provide realistic estimates during your consultation, so you understand what you might expect before moving forward.
Common types of holiday accident claims
To give Preston residents a clearer idea of what qualifies, here are some common examples:
- Hotel accidents: poorly maintained facilities, wet floors, or unsafe balconies
- Food poisoning: undercooked meals or unsanitary kitchen practices at resorts
- Excursion injuries: accidents during diving, skiing, or hiking trips
- Transport accidents: collisions involving coaches, taxis, or hired vehicles
- Illness claims: infections linked to poor hygiene or contaminated water
Each type of claim requires evidence and a solicitor who can connect the incident to legal responsibility under UK or international law.
FAQs
Can I claim if I was partly at fault for the accident?
Yes, you may still be able to claim compensation even if you share some responsibility. The amount you receive could be reduced to reflect your contribution, but it is still worth exploring your options.
Do I need to start the claim while I am still abroad?
No, you can begin the claim once you are back in Preston. However, the sooner you start, the easier it is to gather evidence and build a strong case.
What should I do if my child is injured on holiday abroad?
You should seek immediate medical care, report the incident, and keep all records. As a parent or guardian, you can bring a claim on their behalf once you return to Preston.
Can I claim for food poisoning on a package holiday?
Yes, if poor hygiene or contaminated food caused your illness, you may be entitled to compensation through your tour operator.
How long do I have to make an injury abroad claim in Preston?
The general time limit is three years from the date of the accident, although exceptions apply for children or where injuries only become apparent later. Acting quickly helps build a stronger case.
Contact Marley Solicitors today
If you live in Preston and have suffered an accident abroad, you do not need to deal with the consequences alone. Marley Solicitors provides free initial consultations to help you understand your rights and options. Our team has extensive experience in personal injury and holiday accident claims, and we are committed to securing the best possible outcome for our clients.
Contact Marley Solicitors today for clear, professional advice tailored to your situation.
