What to Do When You Get Injured in a Foreign Country Because of Someone’s Negligence

Perhaps you were looking forward to enjoying the duration abroad as you sample different cultures, cuisines, and relations as you exchange the social-cultural heritage difference. Unfortunately, you sustain an injury during your stay. Getting an injury is a life-changing moment, no matter its severity. It may seem overwhelming, especially when you are in a foreign country.

Nevertheless, here is the good news. Whether you sustain a personal injury or one resulting from a car accident, you have that legal means to address it. Negligence can result in several forms of misfortune. It may be a car crash, slip, or even a fall that results in injuries.

• When it Becomes Negligence

When you sustain injuries following an accident, it may occur due to no one’s fault. However, when another party’s actions or lack of it results in the accident, it becomes negligence. It stems from the fact that everyone has to safeguard the well-being and environment of those around them. If the person breaches that duty, it becomes negligence.

Irrespective of the type of accident, there are primary steps you should follow to help you resume normalcy, even when abroad.

• Medical Care

The first step following an accident should always be getting professional medical care. Timely medical intervention will alleviate any pain and physical condition you may sustain following the injury. Additionally, it will help prevent any damage from becoming worse, limiting the possibilities of your health deteriorating. After medical attention, it is vital to keep a copy of all the tests and procedures you have undergone during the treatment process.

It may include any record of the inpatient and outpatient care during your treatment.

• Take Photographs of the Scene

Keeping a record of the happenings resulting in the injury is instrumental in building a strong case. It may include photos of the scene, vehicles if it is an auto accident, and the location. Furthermore, you can also take a picture of your injuries after their accident. The photos will prove that the negligence resulted from the plaintiff’s actions, causing the accident, which led to your injuries.

Ideally, the objective is taking photographs of the scene, which can recreate the happenings when seeking compensation. For instance, if you, unfortunately, have a fall, you can take photos of the place and the scenario that would show the negligence of another party, like a slippery or poorly constructed floor, which there was no warning about.

• Document Everything 

After such an incident, getting witnesses who can corroborate your story is ideal. Therefore, it is advisable to document everything on their names and contact address to reach them should the need arise promptly. You can also include the vehicle registration numbers and even insurance registration details for the other party in the case of an auto accident.

• Get in Touch with Your Attorney

When you are abroad, getting a professional personal injury lawyer who understands the different laws in foreign countries plays an instrumental role in determining your case’s outcome.

Remember, it is in a different legal jurisdiction where countries may have other law considerations when determining a personal injury case. As the expert legal blog www.phoenixlawteam.com highlights, getting compensation for any pain and suffering following the injury is a priority after getting medical attention. Your attorney will help you prove negligence on the plaintiff’s part when seeking compensation following your injuries.

Additionally, the jurisdiction will determine the outcome of your case. Only a seasoned lawyer understands the intricacies of such cases in building a robust legal claim.

• Make an Official Report

Just like reporting an accident in your home country is procedural, it will also apply when you are abroad. Irrespective of the accident’s location, it is advisable to always make an official report to the legal authorities in filing your case.

However, remember that your case’s determination has a significant inclination with the foreign country’s model of the legal system. If you have trouble communicating, you can access a professional translator who can communicate efficiently between you and the relevant parties.

• Contact Your Insurance Provider

The insurance provider you may contact may be under health, auto, or even travel insurance. An insurance cover will help you gain compensation for any losses and expenses you may incur following the injury.

The fundamental principle in such a scenario stems from two significant aspects. First, it results from the burden of proof of negligence. Secondly, the laws of the location where the accident occurred take precedence. A qualified attorney will help you overcome any hurdles you may encounter in the above. Nevertheless, always remember your safety and wellness comes first.