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Tourist Injuries in Miami: What to Do If You’re Hurt While on Vacation

Miami is a top destination for travelers looking to enjoy world-famous beaches, vibrant nightlife, art, and culture. From South Beach and Little Havana to Wynwoodand Downtown, the Magic City has something for everyone. But when an accident happens during your vacation—whether on the road, at a hotel, or during an excursion—it can quickly turn your trip into a painful and confusing experience.

If you're a visitor who’s been injured in Miami, you may be wondering: Can I file a claim? Who is responsible? What if I live out of state? A Miami personal injury lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and recover the compensation you deserve—even if you live outside Florida.

Common Tourist Injuries in Miami

With so many attractions, busy roadways, and hospitality venues, Miami sees thousands of tourist injuries each year. Some of the most common types include:

Car Accidents

Whether you're renting a car, using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft, or simply crossing the street as a pedestrian, traffic accidents are a leading cause of tourist injuries in Miami. High-traffic roads like I-95, Biscayne Boulevard, and the MacArthur Causeway are particularly dangerous.

Slip and Falls

Hotels, restaurants, nightclubs, and tourist attractions have a duty to keep their premises safe. Wet floors, uneven pavement, and poor lighting can lead to serious falls. These injuries often occur at:

  • Hotel lobbies or stairwells
  • Pool decks and spas
  • Sidewalks and parking lots
  • Museums, malls, and amusement parks
Bicycle and Scooter Accidents

Miami’s popularity with rental scooters and bikes has led to a rise in injuries involving tourists unfamiliar with local traffic rules or bike lanes. In some cases, the vehicles themselves are poorly maintained or defective.

Water and Boating Accidents

Jet ski crashes, parasailing mishaps, snorkeling injuries, and other boating accidents are common in coastal areas like Biscayne Bay and Miami Beach.

Assaults and Inadequate Security

If a hotel, club, or event venue fails to provide adequate security and you’re assaulted or robbed, you may have grounds for a negligent security claim.

What to Do if You're Injured on Vacation in Miami

Accidents can be disorienting—especially when you're far from home. Taking the right steps after your injury can protect your health and strengthen your legal case.

Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Do not wait until you return home. Visit a local hospital, urgent care, or clinic as soon as possible. Early treatment ensures your safety and creates documentation that supports your injury claim.

Report the Incident
  • For car accidents: Call the police and file an official report.
  • At a hotel or business: Notify management and ask for a written incident report.
  • For criminal activity: Report assaults or thefts to local law enforcement.
Document the Scene

Take clear photos and videos of the hazard, accident location, and any visible injuries. Capture unsafe conditions like broken flooring, wet areas, or lack of signage.

Get Witness Contact Information

If others saw what happened, collect their names and phone numbers. Their statements could provide valuable support for your claim.

Save All Evidence and Expenses

Keep your medical records, travel receipts, prescriptions, damaged clothing, and anything else related to your injury or disrupted plans.

Contact a Miami Personal Injury Lawyer

An attorney can help you navigate the claims process in Florida while you return home. They’ll also handle all communication with insurance companies on your behalf.

Can You File a Claim if You Don’t Live in Florida?

Yes. Florida law allows out-of-state and international tourists to file personal injury claims for accidents that occur while visiting the state. You don’t need to remain in Florida during the case. A local attorney can represent your interests remotely.

Compensation Available to Injured Tourists

If someone else's negligence caused your injury, you may be entitled to compensation for:

  • Medical Expenses: Emergency treatment, follow-up care, physical therapy
  • Lost Wages: For missed work during or after your trip
  • Pain and Suffering: For physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life
  • Travel-Related Losses: Trip interruption, rebooking fees, or hotel extensions
  • Property Damage: Damage to phones, luggage, or other personal items
Who May Be Liable for a Tourist Injury?

Determining who is at fault depends on the nature and location of the accident. Liability may rest with:

  • A negligent driver in a car, pedestrian, or scooter accident
  • A hotel, resort, or Airbnb host who failed to maintain a safe environment
  • A tour operator or excursion company that ignored safety protocols
  • A business or restaurant with dangerous property conditions
  • A municipal agency, if the injury occurred on public property

A Miami personal injury attorney will investigate your accident, identify responsible parties, and pursue compensation on your behalf.

How a Miami Personal Injury Lawyer Helps Out-of-State Clients

Handling a claim from another state or country can be complex. At Wolfson & Leon, we make the process as smooth as possible by:

  • Coordinating medical care and obtaining records
  • Handling all legal documents and filings within Florida’s court system
  • Communicating directly with insurance companies
  • Keeping you updated throughout the process, wherever you live
  • Fighting for a fair settlement or taking your case to court if necessary
Don’t Let an Injury Ruin Your Vacation — Know Your Rights

Florida law limits the time you have to file a personal injury claim. Most cases must be filed within two years of the date of the accident. However, it’s best to begin the process as soon as possible while evidence is fresh.

If you were injured while vacationing in Miami, don’t let distance stop you from getting the compensation you deserve. A dedicated Miami tourist injury lawyer can protect your rights and help you focus on recovery.

Since 1963, Jerome Wolfson, Esq. and the team at Wolfson & Leon have proudly served accident victims across Florida:

  • Miami
  • Orlando
  • Tampa
  • Jacksonville
  • Fort Lauderdale
  • West Palm Beach
  • Fort Myers
  • Cape Coral
  • Sarasota
  • Clearwater
  • Tallahassee

Let us help you get back on the road to recovery. Call (305) 285-1115 today, and our team will handle your case with the personal care and attention you deserve.


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