Compensation for Personal Injury in Turkey: How to Claim Damages After an Accident (Case Study – Parachute Incident in Ölüdeniz)

Chukavin Pavel · 2026-07-28

Compensation for Personal Injury in Turkey: How to Claim Damages After an Accident

Turkey remains one of the most popular holiday destinations for European travellers. With the growth in tourism, the number of accidents, particularly in adventure and extreme sports, has also increased.

Real case

The client was on holiday in Ölüdeniz. During a tandem paragliding flight, the instructor collided with her. The client did not hear the warning signal. The police attended the scene and prepared an official report. Initially, no serious injuries were identified. However, several days later, a CT scan revealed fractures of three ribs.

What compensation can be claimed?

Under Turkish law, an injured party may claim:

• compensation for non-pecuniary (moral) damage;
• reimbursement of medical expenses;
• loss of earnings;
• additional expenses, including rehabilitation, travel and accompanying persons;
• in certain cases, compensation for permanent disability.

Essential steps immediately after the incident

Step 1. Call the police

Ensure an official report is prepared. Without a police report, proving the circumstances of the incident becomes significantly more difficult.

Step 2. Collect all medical documentation

Keep all medical records, particularly CT or MRI results, specialist reports and hospital discharge documents.

Step 3. Retain the service agreement

Keep the paragliding contract, booking confirmation and any payment receipts.

Step 4. Document the scene

Take photographs and videos of the accident scene, equipment and any visible injuries.

Step 5. Do not sign liability waivers

Do not sign any documents waiving your rights or settling claims without obtaining legal advice.

Who may be held liable?

Depending on the circumstances, liability may rest with:

• the instructor;
• the company organising the activity;
• the operator of the site;
• the insurance company, where insurance cover applies.

Limitation period

Claims for personal injury in Turkey are generally subject to a two-year limitation period running from the date the injured party became aware, or ought reasonably to have become aware, of both the damage and the identity of the liable party.

Key evidential points

Successful claims typically require:

• an official police report;
• medical documentation confirming the diagnosis;
• evidence establishing a causal link between the incident and the injury;
• proof of expenses incurred.

Conclusion

Even where injuries initially appear minor, it is unwise to waive potential claims. Delayed diagnosis, as in the case of rib fractures discovered several days after the accident, is relatively common.