How do I proceed if I had an accident abroad and incurred medical expenses?
March 19, 2024 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Alwin Hohenwarter
Dear lawyer specializing in travel law,
I hope you can help me with my current issue. My name is Bernhard Hagedorn and I recently had an accident abroad, specifically in Spain. I incurred medical expenses amounting to 2,000 euros as I had to be treated in a hospital. My attempt to claim the costs through my travel insurance was unsuccessful, as they did not consider the accident to be covered.
I am now unsure of how to deal with this financial burden. The costs are not easy for me to handle as a private individual, and I am wondering what options I have to cover the incurred medical expenses. Is it possible for me to claim the costs back from the party responsible for the accident, or are there other legal steps I should consider?
It would be very helpful if you could suggest possible solutions to resolve my issue. I would like to know what legal steps I can take and what chances there are of recovering the medical costs. Additionally, I am interested in how I can better protect myself in the future to avoid such financial difficulties in case of an accident abroad.
I thank you in advance for your support and look forward to your professional advice.
Yours sincerely,
Bernhard Hagedorn
Dear Mr. Hagedorn,
Thank you for your inquiry and for trusting in my expertise in the field of travel law. I am sorry to hear that you had an accident abroad and are faced with medical costs amounting to 2,000 euros. Indeed, it can be very stressful to deal with financial challenges in such situations.
First and foremost, it is important to clarify why your travel insurance did not cover the costs. It is possible that the accident does not fall under the insurance terms or that certain exclusions apply. It would be advisable to carefully review the insurance terms and, if necessary, contact your insurance company to clarify the reasons for the denial of reimbursement. If the explanation does not seem plausible to you, you could also file a complaint with the insurance company or seek legal advice.
Regarding the possibility of reimbursement of costs, it may be difficult in your case to compel the person responsible for the accident to pay for the medical expenses. This largely depends on the circumstances of the accident, especially on whether the person responsible can be held liable and whether they have liability insurance. It may be advisable to consult with a local attorney to assess the legal options in Spain and, if necessary, pursue compensation claims.
To better protect yourself in the future and avoid financial difficulties in case of an accident abroad, I strongly recommend that you take out comprehensive travel insurance that also covers accidents and medical treatments abroad. Make sure that the insurance also includes emergency repatriation and possible rehabilitation measures. Familiarize yourself with the applicable insurance terms and consider taking out additional insurance to expand your protection.
For a more detailed consultation and assistance in resolving your case, I am at your disposal. Feel free to contact me for a personal consultation and to discuss further steps.
Best regards,
Alwin Hohenwarter
Travel Law Attorney
