Holiday Claims

Every year, thousands of people suffer accidents overseas — turning a long-awaited break into a distressing, and sometimes life-changing, experience.

At Aston Knight Solicitors, our expert team helps clients secure compensation following accidents and injuries abroad, whether the incident occurred during a package holiday, on a cruise, or as part of independent travel.

If the accident was not your fault, you may be entitled to bring a holiday accident claim against the responsible party — such as the tour operator, cruise company, hotel, or excursion organiser.

What Is a Package Holiday?

A package holiday can be a ready-made deal from a tour operator or a tailor-made trip that combines different travel services to suit your needs. It can include anything from a city break or beach holiday to a skiing trip or world cruise.

If your booking was made after 1st July 2018, it is covered by the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018. These apply whether you booked online or through a travel agency.A holiday is defined as a package if it includes at least two of the following, sold together for an inclusive price and lasting at least 24 hours or including overnight accommodation:

• Transport – flights, coaches, trains (not local transfers)
• Accommodation – hotel, apartment, or villa
• Car hire
• Tourist services – such as a guided tour, activity, or safari that forms a significant part of the holiday
• Cruises are also considered package holidays

If your accident occurred during a package holiday, you can usually bring your claim directly against the UK tour operator, rather than dealing with a foreign hotel or insurer.

What If You Booked Independently?

You may be eligible to make a CICA claim if:

• You were the victim of a violent crime in England, Scotland, or Wales
• You suffered a physical or psychological injury as a direct result
• You reported the crime to the police as soon as reasonably possible
• The incident occurred within the last two years (though there are exceptions in certain cases)

If you arranged your own travel and accommodation, you can still make a claim.
In these cases, your claim is brought directly against the foreign hotel, venue, or insurance company.

However, independent travel claims can involve complex legal and jurisdictional issues, and time limits vary between countries. For that reason, it’s essential to seek specialist legal advice as soon as possible.

Types of Accidents Abroad

Accidents abroad can happen in many ways. Common examples include:

• Slips, trips, and falls – wet floors, broken tiles, or uneven paths in hotels or restaurants
• Swimming pool accidents – defective surfaces, missing pump caps, or sharp tiles
• Skiing or sporting injuries – caused by faulty equipment or inadequate instruction
• Accidents in hotels or resorts – unsafe furniture, poor lighting, or lack of maintenance
• Road traffic accidents abroad – collisions involving cars, taxis, or rental vehicles
• Excursion injuries – accidents during organised trips, tours, or water sports
• Accidents on cruise ships or flights – falls, contamination, or injury during turbulence

Types of Holiday Injuries

Holiday accident injuries can range from minor cuts or bruises to serious and life-changing conditions, including:

• Soft tissue injuries
• Lacerations and burns
• Fractures and broken bones
• Head, brain, or spinal injuries
• Psychological trauma
• Fatal accidents

What to Do After an Accident Abroad

If you’ve been injured while on holiday, it’s crucial to gather as much evidence as possible:

1. Seek medical attention immediately and keep all records.
2. Report the incident to hotel management, tour representative, or local authorities.
3. Ensure the accident is recorded in an accident book — and request a copy.
4. Take photographs/videos of your injuries and the accident location or hazard.
5. Obtain witness details and any police or doctor’s reports.
6. Keep all receipts and documents, including medical expenses, transport costs, and accommodation invoices.
7. Check for CCTV footage and request a copy if available.
8. Do not accept any settlement offers before speaking to a solicitor.
9. Notify your travel insurer to comply with your policy requirements.

How Long Do You Have to Claim?

Time limits for bringing a claim depend on the type of holiday and where the accident occurred:

• Package holidays (UK-based tour operators): 3 years from the date of the accident
• Cruise ship or flight accidents: 2 years from the date of the incident
• Independent bookings: Varies according to local law — some countries allow as little as 1 year

Because these rules are complex, it’s important to seek advice from specialist solicitors experienced in international injury claims as soon as possible.

Why Choose Aston Knight Solicitors for Holiday Accident Claims?

• Experts in Package Travel and Accidents Abroad Law
• Proven success in complex international claims
• No win, no fee funding available
• Access to leading foreign law experts and medical specialists
• Dedicated, client-focused service ensuring clear advice throughout your claim

Start Your Holiday Accident Claim Today

If you’ve suffered an injury while abroad or during a package holiday, Aston Knight Solicitors can help you secure the compensation you deserve.

Call 0161 399 1231 or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation with one of our specialist holiday claim solicitors.

Related Pages

• Accidents in Public Places
• Serious Injury Claims
• Cycling Accident Claims