In our last post we offered lots of information on what to do if you suffer an injury on holiday. Over the next few posts we’re going to look at each of the below in more detail;
• Trips and Falls Abroad – either at the hotel, bar, restaurant or on excursions.
• Sporting Accidents Abroad – if the organiser has been negligent.
• Holiday Illness – Food poisoning abroad.
You can subscribe to our blog by entering your email address in the "Subscribe" box on the right of this post.
In this post, we'll look at...
What To Do If You Have a Road Traffic Accident Abroad
If you are involved in an RTA (Road Traffic Accident) whilst on holiday, it is important that the police are called and that you get a copy of their report (or at the very least the report number). If you are struggling to understand what’s being said, or to make yourself heard then ask for an interpreter (this is not making a fuss, it’s important that everyone is clear about what has happened).
As you would back home, ensure you:
• Take notes about what happened
• Exchange insurance details
• Take photographs of the accident and the number plates of vehicles involved
• Take the names and address of anyone involved
• Take the names and address of any witnesses
• Do not admit liability or apologise
• Do not sign any documents other than the standard European Accident Statement or "Constat Amiable." (These are documents that insure parties exchange relevant information. Request copies if you are ask to sign them)
Check your insurance is valid abroad before you travel and if you’re going to driving outside the European Union (EU) then you should also apply for a green card (from your insurer) which proves you have the minimum legal requirement of third party liability insurance.
If You Were Driving Your Own Vehicle
Make sure you inform your insurer about the accident as soon as possible, even if you don’t want to make a claim. There is a limit for reporting accidents and if you fail to meet this you may not be covered.
If You Were Driving a Hire Car
Make sure you report even minor accidents to the local police before returning to the UK. Many car hire firms require this and it can be difficult to do once you’ve left the country. Contact the hire car company as soon as possible; they may have an assistance number in the UK so check your contract. Don’t repair a hire car unless the hire company have approved it in writing first.
Had a Car Accident with an Uninsured Driver?
If the accident happened in a European Union country or Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland you may be able to claim compensation from the country’s equivalent to Motor Insurers’ bureau. You can find out more about this from your insurance company or the British Embassy in the country where you’re staying.
Injured in a Car Accident Abroad?
If you were injured as a result of a road traffic accident abroad (including cyclists and pedestrians) then you may be able to make a personal injury claim. If the accident occurred in Europe, the EU 4th and 5th Motor Insurance Directives mean European Insurers must appoint a UK handling agent. This scheme ensures a straightforward means of negotiation, as claims are dealt with in English and in a set timeframe. Even if it’s not possible to take action in this country you may still be entitled to claim but as other countries have different time limitation periods in which to make a claim it is important that you seek legal advice as soon as possible.
We Can Help
If you have suffered an injury abroad then you may be entitled to make a claim for personal injury compensation. Our friendly specialist advisors can talk to you about your situation and see if you have a valid compensation claim. There is no charge for this service and you are under no obligation to claim with us.
If You Have a Genuine Claim, Contact a Genuine Company.
May I Claim, is a trading name of R Costings Limited and our CRM number is 25770
If you’ve had an accident that wasn’t your fault and suffered an injury - you can trust us to handle your claim professionally.
Call us now on 0800 756 7774 and talk to us to find out if you have a claim - or fill in our Quick Claim form (on the right of this page).
http://info.mayiclaim.co.uk/personal_injury_compensation_claim_news/bid/308612/What-To-Do-If-You-Have-a-Car-Accident-on-Holiday
 delicious 