Can You File a Claim if You Were Hurt at a Popular Tourist Attraction in the U.S. Virgin Islands?

 Posted on February 07, 2026 in Personal Injury

You can often file a claim if you were injured at a tourist attraction in the U.S. Virgin Islands. However, your ability to recover compensation depends on who was responsible and whether negligence played a role.

As of 2026, the U.S. Virgin Islands continues to attract record numbers of travelers. In fact, the territory reported a significant increase in airline travelers in recent years, reflecting the growing popularity of destinations like St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John.

With crowded beaches, excursion sites, cruise ports, and historic attractions, accidents can happen when property owners fail to maintain safe conditions. If you were hurt while visiting, our U.S. Virgin Islands personal injury lawyers can help you understand your rights and what steps to take next.

When Can You Sue After Getting Hurt at a Tourist Attraction in the Virgin Islands?

You may be able to file a personal injury claim if someone else’s negligence caused your injury. Tourist attractions owe visitors a duty of care. This means they must take reasonable steps to keep their property safe and warn guests about known dangers.

Common situations that may support a claim include:

• Wet walkways without warning signs
• Broken railings or unsafe viewing areas
• Poorly maintained tour equipment
• Inadequate security in crowded areas
• Transportation accidents during excursions

The key question is whether the injury could have been prevented if proper safety measures were in place.

Who Could Be Held Liable for a Tourist Attraction Injury?

Several parties may be responsible for an injury sustained at a tourist attraction. It depends on where and how the incident occurred.

For example, a resort may be liable for unsafe conditions on its property, while a tour operator could be responsible for injuries during an organized activity. In some cases, a maintenance company or transportation provider may share blame.

The U.S. Virgin Islands generally follow comparative negligence principles. This means more than one party can be assigned fault. If you are partially responsible, your compensation may be reduced based on your share of the blame.

What Laws Affect Personal Injury Claims in the U.S. Virgin Islands?

Under 5 V.I.C. § 31, most injury victims have a limited time to file a lawsuit. This is known as the statute of limitations. Missing the deadline can prevent you from recovering damages entirely.

Property owners also have legal duties under premises liability principles. This area of law holds property owners accountable for unsafe conditions.

If your injury involved a motor vehicle, 20 V.I.C. § 555 places limits on the recovery of non-economic damages in some cases. These are the losses like pain and suffering or emotional distress, which can affect the value of claims involving tour vans, shuttles, or other transportation.

What Compensation Can You Recover After a Tourist Injury in the Virgin Islands?

Compensation, often called damages, is meant to offset the losses caused by an accident. The amount depends on the severity of your injuries and their long-term impact.

You may be able to recover:

• Medical expenses and future treatment costs
• Lost wages if you cannot work
• Reduced earning ability
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress

Prompt medical care is important not only for your health but also for documenting the injury.

When Should You Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer After an Accident?

It is wise to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible after the incident. Evidence can disappear quickly in busy tourist areas, and witness memories may fade.

An attorney can investigate the accident, identify responsible parties, and handle negotiations with insurance companies. This allows you to focus on recovery rather than paperwork and legal stress.

Legal guidance is especially helpful if your injuries require ongoing treatment or if liability is disputed.

Schedule a Free Consultation With Our St. Croix Personal Injury Attorneys

If you were injured at a tourist attraction, understanding your legal options can help you make informed decisions. At Colianni & Leonard LLC, we are prepared to guide you through the claims process and advocate for your interests.

With over 60 years of combined legal experience, our U.S. Virgin Islands personal injury lawyers can help victims recover compensation in a wide variety of cases. We understand how to stand up to insurers and pursue accountability when negligence causes harm. Call 340-719-1766 today to schedule a free consultation and learn how you can protect your rights after an unexpected vacation injury.