What To Do If You Are Injured During Your North Carolina Beach Vacation?

Tourism is a vital part of North Carolina’s economy, accounting for $8.13 billion in revenue just in hotel rental revenue in 2023. With pristine beaches at Wrightsville Beach and scenic beauty at Oak Island, North Carolina’s beaches are a popular destination for visitors and locals alike. However, accidents can happen anywhere, and it is important to know what to do if you are injured during your North Carolina beach vacation.

Get Medical Help Immediately

If you suffer an injury while enjoying Carolina Beach or its neighboring shorelines, seeking medical attention should be a top priority. For serious or potentially serious injuries, head to Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center, which is a top hospital in Brunswick County.

Even if you think you can wait it out until you get back to your home city, you could be at risk of developing a complication. Beyond protecting your health, a prompt visit to the hospital immediately after your injury can help you create a paper trail that can supplement your request for compensation later on.

Report the Incident

Depending on where your injury occurred, different authorities may need to be notified. Car accidents should be reported to the local police department. Don’t forget to pick up a copy of the police report afterward. If you were hurt on a property or development, let the management company know about the incident.

It is ideal to communicate in writing, whether in a written note or email, so there is a record of the communication. Reporting the incident also provides the business or property owner with the option of fixing the hazard so no one else is hurt.

Gather Evidence at the Scene

Preserving evidence is a crucial step as you prepare to pursue compensation. Photographs of the hazard that caused your injury are important. The property owner may try to cover up the true cause of the injury later. If you were involved in a jet ski accident near Bald Head Island or elsewhere, collect contact information from witnesses and hold on to any accident reports.

Medical bills, receipts, and other records can also help document the financial impact of your injuries. Tourism is a vital part of North Carolina’s economy. It generated $35.6 billion in local business revenue in 2023. By addressing potential dangers at tourist destinations, you can help make the state both welcoming and safe for visitors.

Contact a North Carolina Personal Injury Attorney

Many businesses make huge profits from the tourism industry. The state earns about $2.6 billion a year in tax revenue from tourism alone. When someone is hurt while visiting a tourist destination, it is important that the individual or business responsible for causing the injury pay for the harm they caused.

Navigating the personal injury claims process, especially when you are visiting from out of town, can be incredibly complicated. A local personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights and options. If securing compensation requires negotiating with an insurance carrier, your lawyer can handle the paperwork. Some claims need to go to court at Brunswick County Courthouse or the New Hanover County Courthouse, depending on where the injury occurred.

Lawyers are more than litigators. They can help you understand how the claims process works so you are well-informed about your legal options. During a difficult time, it can be encouraging to know that someone who has helped people in your same situation is also standing by your side and providing a path toward justice and compensation.

FAQs

Q: What Happens if You Get Hurt on Vacation?

A: If you are injured while vacationing in North Carolina, seek medical attention immediately and document the incident. Report the injury to the property owner, resort, or relevant authority. If negligence played a role, you may be able to file a claim. Consulting a local attorney can help determine your legal options for recovering medical costs and other damages.

Q: Can You File a Claim for a Vacation Rental Injury?

A: Yes, if you are injured at a vacation rental due to hazardous conditions, you may be able to file a claim against the property owner or management company. Common claims involve unsafe stairways, faulty furniture, or neglected maintenance. North Carolina premises liability laws require property owners to keep rentals safe for guests. An attorney can help determine liability and seek compensation for medical bills and other losses.

Q: What Is North Carolina’s Law on Pain and Suffering?

A: North Carolina allows injured parties to seek compensation for pain and suffering in personal injury claims. This includes emotional distress and trauma, physical pain, and a loss or reduction of your enjoyment of life. However, the state follows a contributory negligence rule, meaning you may be barred from recovering damages if you’re found even partially at fault for the accident.

Q: How Important Is Medical Documentation After a Beach Accident?

A: Medical documentation is essential after a beach accident, as it serves as evidence of your injuries and treatment. Detailed records from doctors, hospitals, and therapists can strengthen your claim by proving the severity of your condition. Without medical records, insurers or opposing parties may dispute your injuries or downplay your need for compensation.

Q: Can Workers’ Comp Pay for Injuries on Vacation Time?

A: Workers’ compensation benefits typically do not apply to injuries that occur while on personal vacation. However, if you were traveling for work or injured during a company-sponsored event, you may be eligible for workers’ comp benefits. If unsure, speaking with an attorney can help clarify whether your situation qualifies for compensation.

Schedule Your North Carolina Beach Vacation Injury Consultation Today

A beach vacation should be relaxing, but an unexpected injury can turn your trip into a stressful experience. At Christina Rivenbark & Associates, we help visitors injured due to hazardous conditions, negligent property owners, or reckless drivers pursue compensation for their losses.

Whether you were hurt on the sand, at a resort, or on the road, our legal team is here to assist. Contact our team of vacation injury lawyers today to schedule a consultation and discuss your options.