What should I do if I have slipped around a pool whilst on holiday?

An estimated 25.6 million Brits will head abroad on holiday this summer, according to figures provided by YouGov. During the summer holiday surge, holidaymakers may also find themselves worrying about what could go wrong during their travels.

One of the most frequently reported accidents that can happen abroad are slips, trips and falls around a swimming pool. From slippery tiles, to defective tiling and grating, or even walkway blockages, these can often be the primary culprits for causing injuries.

So, if someone has slipped around a swimming pool, what should they do?

Here, Stephen Goodman, travel injury lawyer, provides his legal guidance for what to do if you have sustained poolside injuries.

“If hotels do not have effective health and safety measures in place, accidents around a pool can easily occur.”

“These can cause serious issues such as fractures, head injuries or deep wounds; therefore, by taking the time to learn what you should do during such instances, it can enable you take the right steps towards claiming compensation,” Stephen says.

First and foremost, Stephen recommends always seeking medical attention, and reporting your accident to your travel insurer, if you’re involved in an accident and have sustained injuries. He explains further: “Once you have sought medical assistance you should consider what, if any, evidence you can obtain regarding your accident.”

“If you have booked a package holiday, you should report your accident to your holiday representative and to the hotel”.

The hotel and/or representative should formally record the incident on an accident report form, an accident logbook, or you should request for it to be put in writing.

“When this has been done, you should ask for a copy, or take a photo, which can be used towards a claim,” adds Stephen.

Alongside reporting the accident, collecting evidence is equally as important. Stephen advises injured guests to record any evidence of how the accident happened, such as photographs or videos of wet poolside flooring, defective grids, or highlighting lack of signage. He explains further: “It is crucial that you obtain as much evidence as possible to demonstrate the cause of your accident”.

As Stephen states, poolside accidents can easily result in a serious injury, often requiring medical attention. At the same time as seeking medical treatment, and where possible, Stephen advises travellers to speak to their travel insurer if they have cover.

He explains further: “The travel insurance provider can check what your insurance covers, ensuring you avoid any out-of-pocket expenses. Whilst you are abroad, sometimes emergency response prioritises private medical treatment – which can cost thousands of pounds depending on the severity of the injury.”

However, holiday-goers can apply for a free Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) if they are visiting a European location, and selected worldwide destinations. As Stephen adds “The GHIC can be valid for up to five years and will enable travellers, and their family, to use their destination country’s public healthcare system. It can cover medically necessary healthcare, emergency treatment or routine medical care for those with pre-existing health conditions.”

He adds: “If you require medical treatment abroad, you may otherwise be treated as a private patient and face significant charges. The GHIC, alongside suitable insurance, can help reduce financial risk.”

“Therefore, it's imperative to ensure you have travel insurance when travelling abroad.” Stephen adds.

Slater and Gordon urge holidaymakers over the next few months to be informed, stay vigilant and prepared, when such vital information can make a significant difference to how accident claims are managed.