Tips to Avoid Injuries While Vacationing in the U.S. Virgin Islands

 Posted on October 17, 2019 in Personal Injury

A vacation is supposed to provide a person with a stress-free environment, relaxation, and an overall fun experience. Getting to see new places, try new foods and activities, and create long-lasting memories is why many people travel. However, a trip can take a turn for the worse if you or a loved one suffer an injury. Most commonly, a tourist-related injury can result from negligence, personal altercations, societal differences, car accidents, slip and fall accidents, or defective products. When an injury occurs far away from home, speaking to a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible may provide clarification on the steps that should be followed. Before going on a vacation, it may be beneficial to consider the following safety tips:

Understand Where You Are Going

Traveling can be one of the riskiest activities a person can do. Unfamiliarity with the location, laws, and customs could leave a tourist in an unsafe situation. When planning a trip, researching the areas you want to visit ahead of time may be a good idea. Although the U.S. Virgin Islands are considered American soil, there are differences between the Islands and the mainland. For example, unlike the United States, motorists in the Virgin Islands drive on the left side of the road. 

Another area of concern for tourists today is giving off the “tourist illusion.” Anywhere you go, people may be looking to take advantage of unsuspecting visitors. While on a vacation, keeping the following tips in mind may prevent a dangerous situation from escalating:

• Avoid getting into any altercations.

• Keep your travel plans and personal information to yourself.

• Do not hitchhike or share taxis with others.

• Try to avoid going out at night when you are alone.

• Ask the hotel concierge or manager about safe and unsafe locations.

• Keep your passport and other important documents in a secure location.

Realize the Risk of Your Activities

The U.S. Virgin Islands are home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. While many visitors come here to participate in beach and water escapades, they might not be aware of the potential liabilities that can arise. Boating accidents, for example, can be very prevalent due to negligence, intoxication, improper training, or watercraft malfunctions. Furthermore, activities such as snorkeling and scuba diving can lead to the possibility of drowning because of inadequate supervision or broken equipment. Participating in these activities may be a once-in-a-lifetime activity that should be cherished forever, not ruined by a significant injury.  

Contact a U.S. Virgin Islands Personal Injury Attorney

Injuries that have been sustained due to another person’s actions or negligence can range from minor to serious. If you or your loved one is hurt while visiting the U.S. Virgin Islands, you may be able to seek compensation for medical bills or lost wages. Throughout the past 50 years, the attorneys of Colianni & Colianni, LLC have been able to help our clients dealing with difficult situations. If you or a loved one have suffered a personal injury while on vacation, please contact one of our experienced St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John tourist accident lawyers at 340-719-1766 for a free consultation.

Sources:

https://www.vinow.com/blog/about/driving-in-the-usvi/

https://www.travmed.com/pages/health-guide-chapter-1-overview-of-travelers-health