Holiday payback
Question
I've just returned home from a nightmare holiday. I was mugged, suffering a broken elbow as a result, and want to know if I can claim compensation.
Answer
An organisation exists in the UK called the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). They oversee financial compensation for people who have been injured in criminal action. Unfortunately, because the mugging took place outside the UK, your case won't qualify.
It's possible that there may be a similar scheme in the country where the attack happened. One suggestion might be to contact the UK embassy in the country you were in when the mugging took place, and find out if they have a similar scheme.
Your experience also underlines the importance of taking out travel insurance. If you did so before going on holiday, you should find you're covered for the cost of any hospital care. It might also recompense you for other financial losses that occurred.
Updated: 09/06/2008
Question answered by CAB
