Slater and Gordon Travel Safety Injury Abroad User Guide
- June 1, 2024
- Slater and Gordon
Table of Contents
What to do following an injury abroad in
Italy
Part of the Slater and Gordon Travel Safety series.
Travel Safety Injury Abroad
Going abroad, whether for leisure, travel, or business, is often something
many of us look forward to. Though we all want to enjoy our time overseas,
it’s always best to be prepared for anything that may go wrong.
Our travel litigation experts have put together this useful guide so you can
safeguard yourself and fellow travellers during your trip to Italy.
For specialist advice, call us on 0330 041 5723
Before your trip abroad:
Ensure you have a valid UK European Health Insurance Card (UK
EHIC).
If you don’t have one, you’ll need to apply for a UK Global Health Insurance
Card (UK GHIC) which replaces the old EHIC now we’ve left the EU. You can
apply for the new GHIC up to 6 months before your EHIC expires.
Get travel insurance.
Policies differ significantly, so ensure you take out insurance that covers
your scenario, especially if you intend to participate in high-risk activities
or hire a motorcycle.
Always read the general exclusions and small print. If in doubt, contact your
insurance provider.
Be aware of medical treatment costs.
In Italy, your EHIC/GHIC card entitles you to state-provided medical treatment
on the same terms as Italian nationals.
Private hospitals may charge more.
It’s wise to contact your insurer before agreeing to any treatment fees.
Make sure to keep your passport and personal belongings safe.
If your passport is lost or stolen, you’ll need an emergency travel document
from the nearest British Embassy, High Commission, or consulate.
The easiest way to obtain this is via the Foreign, Commonwealth and
Development Office: www.gov.uk/fco 
If you’re injured while abroad in Italy:
- Assess the injury and seek medical attention if necessary. Call 112 for emergency services in Italy.
- If you’ve been injured due to the fault or negligence of another person, note their contact details and relevant information specific to the incident. For example, a vehicle registration number in a road traffic accident.
- If possible, and if it’s safe to do so, take photos of the incident and your surroundings.
- Identify any witnesses of the accident and get their contact details.
- Go to the nearest hospital if your injuries are serious. If you can wait until you’re home, visit your GP to report any suffering or symptoms. This will ensure the incident is on record. If in doubt, seek help.
- Obtain copies of medical reports and/ or any discharge reports detailing the treatment you’ve received.
- Visit a local police station to obtain a reference number from the Italian police if applicable.
- Contact your insurer, your package holiday provider, and your local representative to make them aware of what has happened.
- Note all your expenses and keep receipts. These costs may be reimbursed as part of your claim.
- Never enter into agreement with any foreign party, whether that be a tour operator or an Italian lawyer.
- Contact travel litigation specialists for legal advice on your accident abroad claim.
In Italy, you generally have a 2-year limitation period to pursue a claim. If
you booked a package holiday through a UK based provider, then UKlimitation
dates apply which is 3 years from the date the accident occurred.
Our travel litigation experts have supported thousands of jetsetters who’ve
been injured abroad, from injuries caused from luggage falling from the
overhead lockers on a plane to serious road traffic collisions.
For specialist advice, call us on 0330 041 5723