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A recent article in the Sun newspaper has identified the 10 worst places to drive. At number 1 is Mumbai in India. Having been there a couple of years ago and having been lucky enough to visit 8 out of the 10 on the list, I can agree. I wouldn't even think about driving there! However, it is a fantastic place and part of the attraction is the very bustling nature and sheer number of people. The other places on the list are
Johannesburg, Toyko, Paris, Rome, Toronto, Reykjavik, Bangkok, London and LA. Whilst I don't want to stray into the realms of the travel agent, the obvious thing to do unless you are confident in driving abroad, is to avoid it. There are always alternatives, for example you could see what public transport has to offer, or arrange a driver. These options tend to cost less than you may think and they give you the chance to concentrate on exploring the country and really taking it in.
Despite taking precautions and even if you do avoid driving yourself, sometimes you can still be really unfortunate and be involved in an accident. If you are unlucky enough to be hurt, or a fellow traveller is hurt, then try not to panic. I know it's easy for me to say, but do your best to stay calm. If it's not your fault, you might want to consider making a holiday compensation claim. It can be a complex area, so make sure you take legal advice as early as possible, but always take these steps where you can:
1. Take photos of the scene if you are able to. Get as much detail as possible, including the location, position and registration of vehicles (if an RTA).
2. Report the matter to the police and get a crime reference number. In some countries, you can't do anything without this.
3. If you are on holiday with a tour operator, make sure you tell your rep and complete an incident form.
4. Don't sign any documents you are not clear about. In Europe after an RTA, you will often get presented with an agreed statement of facts form. Only sign it if you understand and agree the contents.
5. Attend hospital or a doctor if you were injured. It is important to get early treatment and have it recorded.
If you follow these 5 steps, you will be in a much better position to make a holiday compensation claim following your accident abroad, if your unfortunate enough to need to.
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