Injured on Vacation in Florida: Can Tourists Sue?
Florida is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the United States, with Tampa offering beautiful beaches, exciting attractions, and vibrant nightlife. But what happens when a dream vacation takes an unexpected turn?
Whether it’s a car crash, slip and fall, or boating accident, tourists who suffer injuries while visiting Florida often wonder if they can take legal action even if they’re not Florida residents. The answer is yes: under Florida law, injured tourists do have the right to sue for damages, just like residents.
Can a Tourist File a Personal Injury Claim in Florida?
Yes. Tourists injured due to someone else’s negligence in Florida have the same legal rights as residents. Whether you’re from another state or another country, if you’re hurt because of another party’s careless actions, you can file a personal injury claim in Florida courts.
Common tourist-related injury claims may include:
- Car accidents involving rental cars or rideshare services
- Slips and falls at hotels, restaurants, or amusement parks
- Boating or watercraft accidents
- Theme park injuries at places like Busch Gardens
- Negligent security leading to assault or theft injuries
In each of these cases, liability depends on proving that the other party owed a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused your injuries.
Where Do You File the Claim?
Even if you’re visiting from out of state, the appropriate place to file your injury lawsuit is typically where the accident occurred; in this case, in Florida. Florida courts have jurisdiction over incidents that happen within the state, and the law that applies is Florida’s personal injury law, not the law of the tourist’s home state.
This is why it’s crucial to work with a Tampa personal injury lawyer who is licensed to practice in Florida and is familiar with local laws, court procedures, and insurance practices.
What Compensation Can Injured Tourists Recover?
Just like residents, tourists may be eligible to recover compensation for:
- Medical bills, including emergency care and ongoing treatment
- Lost wages, especially if the injury affects your ability to work after returning home
- Pain and suffering, including emotional trauma
- Travel-related expenses, such as canceled flights or extended stays due to injury
In more severe cases, where permanent disability or long-term care is involved, compensation may also cover future medical needs and loss of earning capacity.
What Should You Do If You’re Injured While Visiting Tampa?
Taking the right steps after an injury on vacation can protect your health and your right to compensation:
- Seek immediate medical attention: Always prioritize your health.
- Document the incident: Take photos, save receipts, and gather witness contact info.
- Report the injury: Notify property owners, managers, or relevant authorities.
- Avoid discussing fault: Don’t admit blame or make assumptions about liability.
- Contact a local attorney: A Tampa personal injury lawyer can guide you on what to do next.
Acting quickly is important, especially since Florida has a statute of limitations that limits the time you have to file a claim, which is currently two years from the date of injury.
Get Legal Help from Fulgencio Law
Being injured on vacation is stressful and confusing, especially when you’re far from home. You may not know where to turn or how to navigate Florida’s legal system on your own. That’s where a trained and efficient Tampa personal injury lawyer can help. With local knowledge and a client-focused approach, your attorney can investigate the incident, gather evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve while you focus on recovery.
At Fulgencio Law, we represent injured tourists just like you. Whether your accident happened in a hotel, on the road, or at a popular attraction, we’re here to help you take legal action with confidence. Call us today at (813) 463-0123 to schedule a free consultation and find out how we can assist with your Florida injury claim.
