When you're on vacation, one of the last things you might be prepared for is a serious personal injury. However, when personal injuries strike, even on vacation, having the right legal team in your corner can ensure that you receive the resources you need to recover.

Here are a few steps to take when you suffer a personal injury on vacation. 

Safety First

The first step(s) you should take when you or a family member suffers a personal injury on vacation is to seek the help you need. When help arrives, be sure to start gathering the information your personal injury lawyer will need.

• Documentation: if a paramedic treats you or a loved one at the scene of an accident, be sure that you begin the process of gathering documentation. This might include gathering pictures or videos that can add context to the accident when beginning the litigation or settlement process later. Paramedics and licensed first responders like police or firefighters can also generate reports and provide first-hand accounts that can be crucial for your personal injury legal team. Be sure to get names, business cards, names, identification verification (Badge ID #'s), and/or other department representation information (unit, health system provider, etc.). Your personal injury attorney will need this information when they begin building your legal case. Because you're on vacation, you might not be able to obtain this information as easily at a later.

Insurers

Most personal injury cases are settled long before they end up in a courtroom. If you're on vacation, the logistics of dealing with insurers in a different state or area can provide additional complications.

• Insurers: insurance companies can begin processing personal injuries immediately after they are reported. Because most insurers want to avoid costly litigation, they can push personal injury victims to begin settling for specific levels of treatment and recovery. It's important to always consult with a personal injury lawyer before you begin working with insurers.

Go Local

Personal injury statutes, insurance regulations, and other legal aspects of your case may differ depending on location. For vacationers, this might mean having to choose a legal expert they don't know.

• Go Local: when in doubt, choosing a local personal injury firm can increase your odds of receiving prompt attention and immediate resources. However, when working with a local personal injury firm, it's critical to build a relationship with your attorney. This attorney should have a license to practice law in the state where the accident occurred.

Reach out to a personal injury law firm like Craig P. Kenny & Associates to learn more.