Accidents don’t take days off, and the best way to protect yourself while on vacation is to plan ahead. This list will help you make the preparations that could mean the difference between a relaxing vacation and a visit to a doctor – and a personal injury lawyer.
With temperatures dropping below freezing in Alberta, it’s easy to see why so many people escape the cold by taking a vacation someplace warmer. The sand between your toes, clear blue waters, sunshine—what’s not to love?
As personal injury lawyers, we know that injuries and accidents can happen when you least expect it, even on vacation. To reduce your chances of being injured while abroad, here’s our advice for staying safe when you leave the country:
1. Buy travel insurance.
Getting injured in a foreign country can be expensive. When you factor in hospital services, ambulance rides, health care professionals, prescriptions and more, your medical bill could be thousands of dollars. It’s unlikely that Alberta Health will cover even a fraction of your foreign healthcare costs, and it definitely will not pay to get you back home. You will usually pay out of pocket unless you have travel insurance, and the time to purchase is before you leave; talk to your insurance broker or agency for help on choosing a plan that’s right for you. If you are injured in a foreign country, you can submit a claim for reimbursement; instructions are found here.
2. Watch travel advisories.
The Canadian Government provides a comprehensive list of travel advisories for your destination, allowing you to check up on local safety conditions, potential health hazards, dangerous areas, and weather hazards. Being informed about potential dangers will help you avoid risky situations, and can minimize your chances of being injured. You can see the list here.
3. Locate the Canadian Embassy.
Before you arrive at your destination, make sure you know the address and phone number of the Canadian Embassy in that country. In an emergency, the embassy can help you navigate the country’s medical services, laws, and customs, as well as getting in touch with accident injury lawyers. For a complete list of Canadian Embassies and Consulates by country, click here.
4. Leave your documents with someone you trust.
It’s always a good idea to leave a copy of your important documents, along with the names and locations of the places you’re going, with someone you trust at home. This way, someone always knows where you are, and can provide vital information should you get injured or lose the documents. While on your trip, it’s best to keep your passport in a safe and walk around with photocopies of your documents if you need identification.
5. Get your travel vaccinations.
You’ve saved up, planned months in advance, and now it’s finally here: your vacation! But 2 days in, you start to feel ill, and the next thing you know, you’re bedridden for the rest of the trip. Don’t let this happen to you. Many travellers’ illnesses are preventable if you get your vaccinations at least 6 months before you travel. Check this government website for a list of recommended vaccinations by destination.
We’re here for you.
Injuries can happen, even when you’re prepared. If you or someone you love is injured while travelling abroad, it’s important to understand your options. The personal injury lawyers of Litco Law are here for you any time of day—even when you’re not at home. We’ll guide you through this difficult time, so don’t hesitate to contact us. And if you know someone who’s getting ready to travel, please share this list.
