Matthew Mincone | April 21, 2025 | Personal Injury
Tampa, Florida, is a popular destination for tourists from around the world. With its beautiful beaches, exciting theme parks, and great weather, it’s no surprise that so many people visit each year. But sometimes accidents happen. If you’re a tourist and get injured while visiting Tampa, you may not know what to do next.
This guide will help you understand your legal options, explain the steps you should take, and show you how a personal injury lawyer can help. Even though you’re far from home, you still have rights — and it’s important to protect them.
Understanding Tourist Injuries in Tampa
Tourists can get injured in many different ways while visiting Tampa.
Some of the most common types of accidents include:
- Slip and fall accidents at hotels, restaurants, or shops
- Car, bike, or scooter accidents
- Injuries at amusement parks or tourist attractions
- Boating or water-related accidents
- Injuries from defective products (like rental equipment)
These injuries can range from minor cuts and bruises to serious issues like broken bones or head trauma. No matter how big or small the injury is, it’s important to take it seriously.
Who Might Be Responsible?
When someone is injured due to another person or company’s negligence (carelessness), that person or business might be legally responsible. For example:
- A hotel could be responsible if you slipped on a wet floor with no warning sign.
- A rental car company could be at fault if its vehicle malfunctioned.
- A property owner might be liable if their building wasn’t safe.
Understanding who might be responsible is the first step in pursuing a legal claim.
Steps to Take After an Injury as a Tourist
It is important to take the following steps if you’re injured as a tourist:
Get Medical Help
Your health is the top priority. If you’re hurt, get medical attention right away. Even if the injury seems small, a doctor can make sure there are no serious issues. Also, medical records are important evidence if you decide to file a legal claim.
Report the Incident
Report the injury to the right people. If you’re hurt at a business, tell the manager. If it’s a car crash, call the police. Ask for copies of any reports that are made. These documents can help your case later.
Take Pictures and Gather Information
If you can, take pictures of the scene, your injuries, and anything that may have caused the accident. Also, get the names and contact information of any witnesses. This evidence can be very useful.
Avoid Giving Detailed Statements
Don’t talk too much about the accident to the business owner, insurance companies, or others. Avoid signing anything or accepting money before speaking to a lawyer. You might say something that could hurt your case without realizing it. Every step you take after the injury can affect your ability to get compensation.
Can I File a Lawsuit in Florida if I’m Not from Here?
Yes, you can. Even if you live in another state or country, you still have the right to file a personal injury claim in Florida if the injury happened here. Florida law will apply, and the case will likely be handled in a Florida court. This is why it’s a good idea to work with a personal injury lawyer who is based in Florida and understands the local laws and court system.
What if I Have Already Left Florida?
Don’t worry if you’ve gone back home. Many steps in a personal injury claim can be done remotely. Your lawyer can handle paperwork, collect evidence, and may even represent you in court without you needing to return to Florida in some cases. Technology makes it easy to stay in touch with your attorney through email, phone calls, and video meetings.
Time Limits to File a Claim in Florida
The statute of limitations in Florida sets a time limit for how long you have to file a personal injury lawsuit. In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to seek compensation. That’s why it’s important to talk to a lawyer as soon as possible.
Consult a Tampa Personal Injury Lawyer
If you were injured while visiting Tampa, FL, you do not have to handle the personal injury claims process alone. An experienced Tampa personal injury attorney can help you hold the at-fault party accountable and pursue the compensation you need to begin moving forward.
Note: The closing paragraph includes the Attorney’s bio
Contact the Tampa Personal Injury Lawyers at Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Tampa, FL, contact our skilled personal injury lawyers at Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation.
We proudly serve Hillsborough County and its surrounding areas:
Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers
1925 E 6th Ave Ste 10
Tampa, FL 33605
(813) 800-0810
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Tampa
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 27.9593512,-82.4369179
About The Author
Attorney Matthew Mincone is the founder of Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers. He earned his law degree while attending night programs in New York and is licensed to practice in Florida. With over 15 years of legal experience, Matthew focuses on personal injury cases, including motor vehicle accidents involving cars, commercial trucks, and motorcycles. His commitment to personally handling each case ensures clients receive dedicated representation. Click here to view some of the remarkable case results that Matthew has successfully achieved.
Location: Tampa, FL