Spring break is a time for adventure, relaxation, and fun—but unexpected injuries can quickly turn a dream trip into a nightmare. Whether you're road-tripping across Colorado, flying to a beach destination, or hitting the slopes, accidents can happen. If you or a loved one suffer an injury while traveling, knowing what to do next can make all the difference in protecting your health and legal rights.
Common Spring Break Injuries
From car crashes to slip-and-falls, many types of accidents can occur while traveling. Some of the most common vacation-related injuries include:
- Car Accidents – Whether driving to your destination or using a rental car, unfamiliar roads and distracted drivers can lead to crashes.
- Hotel and Resort Injuries – Slippery pool decks, broken stairs, or negligent security can cause serious harm.
- Recreational Activity Accidents – Injuries from skiing, ATV rentals, parasailing, or jet skiing can be severe.
- Drunk Driving Crashes – Spring break celebrations often lead to increased alcohol consumption, raising the risk of DUI-related accidents.
What to Do If You’re Injured on Vacation
1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Your health comes first. If you are seriously injured, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Even if your injuries seem minor, getting checked out by a doctor is essential for your well-being and any future legal claim.
2. Report the Incident
Depending on where your injury occurred, report it to the appropriate party:
- Car accident? Contact local law enforcement and obtain a police report.
- Hotel or resort injury? Notify management and request a written incident report.
- Business or attraction accident? Speak with the owner or property manager and document the issue.
3. Gather Evidence
The more evidence you collect, the stronger your case will be. Be sure to:
- Take photos of the scene, including hazards that caused your injury.
- Get witness statements and contact information.
- Keep copies of medical records and receipts for any expenses related to the injury.
4. Be Cautious When Speaking to Insurance Companies
If an insurance adjuster contacts you, be careful with what you say. They may try to minimize your claim or get you to accept a quick settlement that doesn't cover all your damages. It’s best to consult a personal injury attorney before making any statements.
What If Your Injury Happens in a Different State or Country?
Injured in Another U.S. State?
If your accident happens outside of Colorado, the laws of that state will apply. This can affect:
- Filing deadlines (statute of limitations): Each state has different time limits for personal injury claims.
- Liability laws: Some states follow comparative negligence, which could impact how much compensation you receive.
- Insurance coverage: If involved in a car accident, you may have to deal with different state minimums and uninsured/underinsured motorist laws.
🚨 What to Do:
- Contact local law enforcement for a police report.
- Seek medical care and keep all records.
- Avoid discussing fault with the other party or their insurance.
- Contact a personal injury lawyer who handles multi-state claims—your home-state attorney can coordinate with legal counsel in the state where the accident occurred.
Injured in a Foreign Country?
Getting hurt in another country can add complications such as:
- Different legal systems: Some countries have stricter liability laws, while others make it harder to sue for damages.
- Medical care access: If you're in a remote area, getting proper medical attention might take longer.
- Travel insurance claims: If you purchased travel insurance, it might cover medical bills, emergency evacuations, and lost wages.
🚨 What to Do:
- Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate for assistance if you're in serious distress.
- Seek medical care and obtain a written report from the provider.
- If injured in a hotel, resort, or excursion, request an incident report from management.
- Review your travel insurance policy (if you have one) and notify your provider.
- Once you return to the U.S., consult a personal injury attorney with experience in international injury cases—some claims can still be pursued in U.S. courts.
Contact Veritas Injury Lawyers for Legal Guidance
No one plans to get injured on spring break, but if it happens—especially in a different state or country—you need an experienced legal team to help navigate the complexities of your claim. At Veritas Injury Lawyers, we help injured travelers understand their rights, deal with insurance companies, and seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
📞 Injured on vacation? Contact us today for a free consultation.
