When you think about traveling, you probably picture sandy beaches or beautiful views. While preparing your travel itinerary, safety is something that rarely comes to mind, much less a personal injury lawyer. In response to the latest London terrorist attack, here are eight tips to ensure you are safe throughout your travels.
Ensure Safe Ground Transportation
In research conducted by the World Health Organization, car accident is the largest cause of death among travelers. Before traveling, research the safest ways to commute. If you are harmed in an auto accident while inside the U.S., contacting a lawyer immediately is strongly recommended.
Check With the US State Department
The US State Department can provide extremely valuable information such as passport validity, currency restrictions entering and exiting the country, visa requirements, vaccination requirements and contact information for the local U.S. Embassy.
Enroll With STEP
The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, or STEP, is a free service provided by the State Department for U.S. citizens to enroll their trip with the local embassy. When you enroll your trip, you will receive important information about safety conditions in the country. If an emergency happens in the country you are in, the Embassy will have your information and will be able to contact you.
Save Emergency Numbers
Unfortunately for Americans, 911 is not a universal number. To ensure your safety, save the emergency numbers in your phone of the country you are in.
Separate Your Valuables
Crime is prevalent in tourist areas as many locals know to target those who may not know their surroundings. Do not keep all your money in one place if your wallet is stolen. Take pictures of all ID’s and passports and store the photos on your phone. Keep printed copies of all ID’s and passports in your hotel room.
Steer Clear of Animals
Many countries have animals freely roaming the streets. It may be a cute picture in the moment, but a dog bite or animal attack can leave you in a bad situation and wanting your lawyer, especially when traveling in third world countries.
If you are traveling domestically and experience a dog bite, consider getting a lawyer to ensure you are compensated for your injuries.
Get Travel Insurance
As travel is becoming increasingly popular, so is travel insurance. Travel insurance can cover events such as travel delays, trip cancellation, lost luggage and medical emergencies. If you do experience a personal injury, consider contacting a lawyer to see if you are able to be compensated for your injuries.
Check Your Health Insurance for Travel
The last thing you want to happen during your vacation is for you to get sick, and ensuring you will be covered is extremely important. About eight percent of travelers becoming ill enough to seek medical attention while traveling or shortly after returning. If your current carrier does not cover you in traveling, there are supplemental coverages you can purchase online that will assist in any medical costs.
Traveling domestically or internationally can be the greatest experience of your life. Unfortunately, there are dangers and hazards of going into different countries/states that you are unfamiliar with.
As with anything, doing your homework can save you from having an awful experience or costing you thousands of dollars unexpectedly. Keep your personal injury lawyer on speed dial.