Heading to the USA for the 2026 World Cup? Make sure you are protected

It is an exciting opportunity to travel, experience world‑class football and create lasting memories. Understandably, no one wants to think about injuries or accidents when planning such a trip. However, if something does go wrong, the reality is that bringing a claim in the United States is very different from doing so at home.

From a client perspective, one of the biggest challenges is simply how unfamiliar the US legal system can feel. In Scotland, there is a relatively consistent framework for personal injury claims. In the US, the rules change depending on where the incident happens. Each state has its own laws, its own time limits and its own approach to compensation. This means that something as simple as waiting too long to seek legal advice could have serious consequences, with some claims requiring action within a much shorter timeframe than you might expect. 

There is also a level of procedural formality which can catch people out. For example, if an accident involves a public authority, there may be a requirement to provide formal notice of a claim within months of the incident. Missing that step can prevent a claim from proceeding altogether, regardless of its merits. For someone recovering from an injury abroad, that can feel both overwhelming and unfair, particularly when they are unaware that these rules even exist. 

Another difficulty is that liability is not always assessed in the same way as it would be in Scotland. In the US, there is often a greater focus on the injured person’s own actions. Depending on the state, any fault attributed to the claimant may reduce the compensation they receive or, in some cases, prevent recovery entirely. There are also concepts such as “assumption of risk”, which can arise in situations involving leisure activities. During a major event like the World Cup, where fans are often attending crowded venues, travelling widely and participating in activities, these issues can become particularly relevant.

There are also practical considerations which are not always immediately obvious. For example, the availability of insurance or funding behind a claim can be an important factor in how matters progress. In addition, the process itself may involve steps such as gathering detailed evidence, engaging with local procedures and, in some cases, participating in hearings or other formalities within the United States.  This can affect not only the outcome but also the decision whether a claim is worth pursuing at all. 

It is also worth noting that compensation in the United States is often assessed differently. We often hear that awards in the US are higher, particularly where juries are involved. While this can be the case, it also introduces a great deal of uncertainty. There are no fixed guidelines for certain types of damages, and outcomes can vary widely depending on where the case is heard and how it is presented. For clients, this can make the process feel unpredictable and, at times, stressful. 

What is perhaps most important to understand is that the US system places a strong emphasis on early evaluation. Lawyers will often need to consider, at an early stage, whether the claim is viable, what evidence is available and whether it is financially realistic to proceed. Unlike Scotland, there is no widely available system of legal aid for these claims, and cases are commonly funded through contingency fee arrangements. This means that careful assessment at the outset is essential. 

Legal Support

For Scottish clients, this is where the value of having the right support becomes clear. Dealing with a foreign legal system while recovering from an injury can feel daunting. Having a Scottish solicitor who can guide you, explain the process in clear terms and work alongside trusted US attorneys can make a significant difference. It allows clients to feel supported and informed, rather than navigating unfamiliar rules alone.

People travelling to the World Cup do not expect to need legal advice. However, taking simple steps such as ensuring you have appropriate travel insurance and knowing where to turn if something does happen can provide reassurance. If an incident does occur, seeking advice early is crucial. It helps to protect your position, preserve evidence and ensure that your options are properly understood from the outset. 

The key message is a simple one. While the focus of any trip should be on enjoyment, it is always worth being prepared. When it comes to injuries abroad, particularly in a complex system such as that of the United States, having the right legal representation in place is not just helpful, it can be essential!