If you are unfortunate enough to be injured on holiday or suffer a holiday illness and require treatment it could prove costly. Medical treatment abroad can be very expensive if you do not have protection against the costs in the form of Travel Insurance or the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
The European Health Insurance Card allows travelers in the European Economic Area (European Union countries plus Iceland, Norway and Lichtenstein and Switzerland) access to public healthcare facilities and treatment for injuries suffered in an accident on holiday or a holiday illness, and for pre-existing conditions. Whether the treatment is completely free or provided at a percentage discount is entirely dependant on the policy of the country you are holidaying in.
Travel Insurance is absolutely vital if you are travelling outside an EU country but it is advisable to have it even if you are having a holiday in an EU country as, although the EHIC covers you for treatment it will not cover the cost of returning you to the UK should it be necessary. Having travel insurance as well as the EHIC when you go on holiday will also entitle you to treatment in private clinics, surgeries and hospitals if you do have a holiday illness or have a holiday accident. If you have any pre-existing medical condition such as diabetes or asthma you should declare it and be prepared to have to complete a medical form detailing your condition so that costs can be calculated for the appropriate cover.
If you intend to participate in any high risk sport or activity make sure your policy covers you for the additional risk. Most policies are standard and therefore all the same, so if you are participating in some activity like skiing, surfing or hiking while on holiday you will need an upgraded version to include cover you for an injury on holiday.
Travel insurance when going abroad gives you financial protection if something goes wrong and should cover medical expenses, cancellation of the holiday, loss of baggage and theft. Hopefully, it will not be needed but don’t be tempted to save money by doing without it as the cost of the insurance is minimal when compared to the cost of any treatment you need for your injury on holiday or holiday illness.
If you have suffered an injury on holiday or a holiday illness that was caused by someone else’s recklessness or negligence you should seek advice from a specialist solicitor in the UK as soon as you return. Macks Solicitors can give you the assistance you need to make a claim for compensation for your holiday accident or holiday illness from the company who is responsible. Simply complete the Online form and a solicitor will contact you as quickly as possible or if you prefer call on Freephone 01642 252 828 and you will be able to speak with a specialist solicitor about your holiday accident or holiday illness straight away.