Holidays are supposed to be a time of enjoyment and relaxation, a chance to reconnect with family and friends and explore the culture of somewhere new. So it can be especially disappointing when holidays are ruined by illness.

If you or a loved one has experienced an illness while on holiday, it’s essential to know that you may be able to claim compensation and put things right. At Switalskis we’re committed to making sure that your holiday illness is compensated for. We’ll guide you through every step of the claims process to seek compensation for the issues you have endured.

A holiday is often a much-anticipated break, a time to relax, explore, and create memories. But what happens when that much-needed getaway is ruined by an unexpected illness? Understanding the gravity and implications of holiday illnesses is the first step towards seeking the compensation and closure you deserve.

Holiday illnesses are more than mere interruptions to your plans. They can range from mild discomforts to severe conditions, leading to extended stays in unfamiliar hospitals or clinics, expensive medical bills, or long recovery periods back home. Beyond the physical effects, the psychological impact of having a cherished holiday turned upside down can't be underestimated.

Various factors can lead to holiday illness. Consuming contaminated food or water, exposure to unhygienic conditions, or even contracting airborne diseases can quickly transform a leisure trip into a health nightmare. In some cases, the negligence of holiday providers, such as hotels or restaurants, plays a part.

The consequences of a holiday illness often don't end with the trip. Many people face challenges once they return, including lingering health issues, loss of income due to extended sick leave from work, and the emotional toll of living through the ordeal. Moreover, family members or travel companions can also be affected, whether they fall ill or face the strain of supporting the affected person.

While many of us associate holiday illnesses with trips abroad, domestic holidays are not exempt. Regardless of the location, travellers have the right to expect certain health and safety standards. When these are compromised, it’s essential to know where to turn.

Empathy, support and guidance are integral during these testing times. At Switalskis, we’re committed to not only providing expert legal advice but we also offer a comforting hand, helping you navigate the aftermath of a holiday illness with care and dedication.

General rule: In most cases, you have three years from the date you became aware (or reasonably should have become aware) that your holiday illness was due to the negligence or oversight of another party. This might not be the day that you fell ill. For instance, it could be when a medical professional diagnosed you and traced your illness back to a specific event or location during your holiday. This is called the ‘date of knowledge’.

However, if you were ill while abroad, the time limits can vary depending on the country where the accident took place. Some countries have much shorter time frames in which you can make a claim. That’s why it’s so important to act quickly.

Exceptions to the rule: while the three-year deadline is common, there are exceptions to this rule: 

• Children: If the person suffering from the holiday illness was under 18 when they were diagnosed, the three-year timeframe doesn't start until their 18th birthday. This means they will have until the age of 21 to lodge a claim.
• Mental capacity: For those who lack the mental capacity to launch a claim, the three-year restriction may be delayed. Once they regain capacity, the three-year limit begins.
• Cruise ships: Shorter time limits apply to illnesses contracted aboard cruise ships or other boats. Please contact us as soon as possible after your cruise to make sure that time limits aren’t missed.
• Flights: Illnesses contracted aboard aircraft or in and around airports are governed by different time limits and have other restrictions that make claims more difficult.

Even taking into account these exceptions, it's wise to start the claim process as soon as possible. This means that memories are more vivid and it’s easier to collect evidence.