Every now and then, problems can arise while you’re travelling. Getting ill or injured while travelling can impact your travel experience, your well being, and your wallet. According to the Center for Disease Control, between 43 and 79 percent of travellers experience a travel-related illness while on their trips, while many others end up getting injured while travelling across the USA. If that situation ever arises, you need to be aware of your options – and know the steps to take to protect yourself.
Document Your Illness Or Injury And Trip Details
If you get sick while travelling in the US, your first instinct should be to locate a health centre or health professional for treatment. Using a healthcare locator like The Institute of Functional Practitioner’s Search Tool or the Medline Plus directory can help you locate a healthcare centre near your location. Documenting your illness helps you acquire evidence for your insurance claims, and in some cases, your legal case. Start with keeping any injury/illness related purchase receipts, medical appointments or notes. This will show that you sought treatment and the nature of your medical condition. Lastly, you want to inform the relevant authorities to ensure your case is on file – whether that is your insurance company, local authorities, or your local embassy. They can give you advice on the right steps to take next.
Speak To Your Travel Insurer To Find Out Your Coverage
A shockingly small percentage of travellers take the time to secure travellers’ medical insurance before heading off on their trips. According to a recent United States Travel Insurance Association survey, only 6 percent of travellers between 2016 and 2018 chose to do so. Meanwhile, 94 percent of all coverage purchased is done so specifically for trip cancellations or delays, leaving travellers woefully vulnerable if they get sick or injured while travelling in the USA.
If you do have travel medical insurance, the cost of seeking out your initial treatment in the USA should be covered. In this case, one of the first things you should do is notify your travel insurer and file a claim. However, if you choose not to purchase travel medical insurance or end up getting treated in a treatment centre that is not covered under your insurance plan, you may be responsible for the steep costs of getting injured while travelling. For instance, the cost of treating a broken leg can average $17,000 if you are uninsured, while smaller diagnostic treatments like a leg X-ray costs around $210. More serious medical conditions may require repatriation to your home country for treatment, increasing the medical bill exponentially.
Get Advice On Your Legal Rights
Lastly, if you are injured due to negligence or malpractice, it may be a good idea to speak to a lawyer to find out your legal options. This may also apply if you’re having a difficult time reclaiming from your travel insurer. To find your closest personal injury legal representation options, check the state’s local legal network website. No fault injuries can be dealt with by local lawyers whether that’s a personal injury firm in Austin or road accident specialists in Orlando. Local companies will have the best knowledge of specific state law and provide relevant help and guidance
You will also need to determine what kind of lawyer you will need. If your injury has resulted in a disability or life-changing injury, then it may be time to seek out a specialist lawyer. However, if you have been involved in a motor vehicle accident, your best bet is a personal injury lawyer that specialises in motor vehicle accidents.
While it is never fun to think about, you must be prepared for any eventualities when travelling. From knowing where to go if you get injured while travelling in the USA to having protection against the potential financial impacts, taking these steps before you embark on your trip can make all the difference.
