How to Handle Injuries on Vacation

Updated on March 30, 2020

Travel doesn’t always go as planned. While some changes are exciting, such as deciding to spend a few extra days sightseeing, other unanticipated events are stressful. If you get injured while out of state, for example, you may be unsure about what to expect, which can be tough when all you want to do is go home. Use the guide below to help plan for the trip back.

Get Medical Attention

If an ambulance was called for you, listen to the emergency workers who are there to help you. Follow their directions, as well as answering any questions from police officers who come to the scene.

If no ambulance came, make sure you see a doctor regardless. Do so before going home, as you may not be fit to travel.

Finding a medical provider may be an uncomfortable experience given that you are not in your home city. Thus, it is a good idea to research healthcare options before leaving for a trip so that you can react quickly to any physical injury.

Once given the okay from the hospital to travel home, book support for emergency flights so that you have proper medical care, such as a travel escort, during the journey home.

Reach Out to Family


Contact your family before leaving home so that they know what happened and are up to date on your travel plans. They can also help you plan if you’re not able to live on your own for a while because the injury limits your mobility.

Seeking the help of loved ones is not a sign of weakness but instead one of strength. The support of family and friends, as well as healthcare specialists, can help you recover more smoothly than if you are trying to do it all alone.

Seek Legal Representation

If you are injured on vacation, it’s important to protect your rights and do so as quickly as possible. Get competent legal help to have your injuries assessed properly.

If you pursue a personal injury lawsuit, the process can be complex because the parties live in different states. In special cases, though, you may be able to sue within the state where you live, so it’s essential to check with a lawyer to know how to proceed.

See the Doctor at Home

Once back in your home state, see your doctor. Explain the situation and find out what is the best recovery plan for your unique situation and given your medical history.

Return to your doctor at regular intervals to update them on how you are healing, as well as your progress if you are physiotherapy. If given medications, take them exactly as prescribed.

When Vacations Go Wrong

Injuries while on a trip do happen, so rest assured that that you are not alone. Knowing the steps to take if injury should happen to you can help reduce worries and anxiety, as well as get you the proper medical and legal assistance as soon as possible.

The Editorial Team at Healthcare Business Today is made up of skilled healthcare writers and experts, led by our managing editor, Daniel Casciato, who has over 25 years of experience in healthcare writing. Since 1998, we have produced compelling and informative content for numerous publications, establishing ourselves as a trusted resource for health and wellness information. We offer readers access to fresh health, medicine, science, and technology developments and the latest in patient news, emphasizing how these developments affect our lives.