A record 135 million people visited Florida in 2023, with more than 50% of them heading for Orlando’s theme parks. While most vacations to Orlando, the Florida Keys, and other top tourist destinations are filled with fun and excitement, injuries can unfortunately happen. If you suffer an injury while visiting Orlando, it’s important to understand your medical coverage options and next steps.

Assess the Injury

If you experience anything beyond basic first-aid care while on vacation, assess the severity of the injury. Minor injuries like scrapes or bug bites can likely wait until you’re home to see your primary care physician. More serious injuries like broken bones, head trauma, or excessive bleeding should be seen by a local doctor immediately.

If you’re really unlucky, you may even get bitten by an alligator. There were two gator attacks in 2022, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission data shows there have been 450 alligator attacks since 1948, with 30 of them fatal.

Utilize Travel Insurance

One of the best ways to protect yourself financially when traveling is to purchase travel insurance. A comprehensive travel insurance policy will likely cover any medical care you receive for an injury while on vacation. This includes hospital bills, doctor visits, prescriptions, and even travel arrangements if you must extend your stay. Be sure to contact your insurer right away to file a claim.

Turn to Your Health Insurance

For those without travel insurance, your health insurance may provide coverage, but there are caveats. Most PPO and HMO plans only provide emergency coverage while traveling, not routine care. You may also need to pay upfront for treatment and submit claims once you return home. Contact your insurance provider ahead of your trip to understand out-of-state coverage.

Find a Local Urgent Care

If you need non-life-threatening care for an injury, visiting one of Orlando’s many urgent care clinics is likely the most affordable, convenient option. CareSpot and Centra Care are two large chains with clinics throughout Orlando offering walk-in injury treatment and exams. Waiting times are usually shorter than an ER, tests and x-rays are done on-site, and costs are lower.

When to Go to the ER

Injuries that require immediate, emergency medical attention like excessive bleeding, major fractures, head trauma, or difficulty breathing should prompt a 911 call or trip straight to the nearest hospital emergency room. There were around 9 million ER visits in Florida during 2020, and Orlando is home to Level 1 Trauma centers like the Orlando Regional Medical Center that are fully equipped to handle critical injuries and even surgeries when necessary. ER costs are high, so file an insurance claim soon after.

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer

Attorney James D. Payer, co-founder of Payer Personal Injury Lawyers, a law firm in Orlando, FL, recommends considering contacting a personal injury lawyer once you get home. They can help you pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages from missed work, pain and suffering, and other damages. Contingency-fee lawyers mean no payment unless they secure a settlement for you.

Recover Safely

Finally, if you are sidelined from vacation plans due to an injury, focus on safely recovering in your hotel before traveling home. Rest, take all prescribed medications, stay hydrated, and arrange a safe transport home whether via flight, train, or car depending on your situation. Don’t try to push yourself to keep vacationing and risk further injury. Orlando’s attractions and excitement will still be there for your next healthy and happy visit!