Traveling abroad is one of the greatest thrills in life. You have the opportunity to explore new cultures, learn about new things, and see amazing sights. While traveling to a foreign country can be fun, it can also be dangerous. The risk of injury or death doesn’t disappear just because you leave the United States.

It is important to understand how you can minimize the risk of injuries while traveling abroad. As experienced personal injury attorneys, we know what increases the risk of an accident.  Following tips will not only keep you safe, but help you to avoid the headache of trying to recover compensation for injuries sustained during a foreign accident.

Avoid the Roads and Take Public Transportation
Did you know that most other countries prefer to drive vehicles with a manual transmission? Unless you’re comfortable driving a stick, it’s best to take advantage of public transportation offered by your travel destination. Taking public transportation allows you to experience your destination without having to figure out how to navigate from one place to another. It also allows you to avoid much of the traffic that can result in a tragic accident.

Follow Safety Guidelines and Suggestions
Public transportation is not without its risks. Make sure you review suggested safety information provided by the transportation authority and follow those guidelines closely. They are created with tourists and visitors in mind and designed to keep you safe. Ignoring these important tips can increase the chances of an accident.

Learn the Rules of the Road
If you do decide to drive, it’s important to be very familiar with local rules and customs. Don’t assume that you can drive the same way you do back home. You must drive defensively when you are not accustomed to your surroundings. Every foreign city or country will have its own unique driving customs. Learn these to stay safe.

You may also know that road signs can be very different in other countries. Make sure that you learn what different road signs mean and when they apply to you. Be sure to identify signs for “hospital” and “police” so that you can get help quickly if you do happen to get into an accident.

Don’t Get Distracted
Whether you’re driving or walking around, it is important to remain aware and alert at all times. In Los Angeles, an increasing number of pedestrians are involved in accidents because they aren’t paying attention to their surroundings. If you are walking around a foreign country with your nose in a map or eyes glued to a cell phone, you also increase the risk of an accident. If you are responsible for your accident, you may not be able to recover compensation for your injuries.

Be Extremely Cautious Around Water
Are you excited about experiencing a beautiful foreign body of water? The view may be breathtaking, but it is important to be very cautious. Drowning is a leading cause of death for Atravellingitizens traveling abroad. In fact, in 2016, one out of every five American deaths abroad was the result of drowning.

How can you reduce your chances of suffering an injury when you want to enjoy the picturesque water on your vacation? Keep these safety tips in mind:
● Only swim during daylight hours
● Swim in areas that are patrolled by certified lifeguards
● Do not allow children to enter water without an adult
● Read up on weather and water patterns that may pose a threat of danger
● Always swim with at least one other person, and
● Ask locals about the safest places to enjoy the water.

It is always better to be safe than sorry when traveling abroad. Study up on local customs, remain alert, and use caution to make your trip an enjoyable one.