Get the Compensation You Deserve Contact Our Attorney Today Concerning Your Cruise Ship Injury Case

Cruise Ship Liability in an Accident

Consult with a Miami Cruise Ship Injury Attorney

When a passenger falls ill or becomes injured while on a cruise ship, it may be difficult to discern whether or not there are grounds to take legal action. Determining liability in injury cases is a complex area of law, especially when it comes to cruise ship cases.

For expert legal guidance in your cruise ship injury case, turn to a team with extensive knowledge of admiralty and maritime law. With two Board Certified attorneys on our staff, Michael C. Black, P.A. is here to fight for your rights. Call us today at (305) 964-8792 to schedule a consultation.

Our Miami cruise ship injury lawyer uses extensive research and knowledge of the law in order to determine liability for cruise ship injury cases. With years of experience and proven success, our firm is ready to help with your case.

Understanding Cruise Ship Passenger Rights

When you board a cruise, you are entitled to certain rights as a passenger. These rights are designed to ensure your safety and well-being throughout the voyage. Below are some of the most important rights you have while on a cruise:

  • Right to Safe Travel: Cruise lines must provide safe transportation to their passengers. This includes maintaining the ship, properly training the crew, and following safety protocols.
  • Right to Medical Care: Cruise ships are required to provide medical care on board. This includes access to doctors, nurses, and necessary medical supplies to address emergencies or illness.
  • Right to Protection from Harm: Cruise lines must ensure the safety of passengers by maintaining secure facilities, addressing any hazardous conditions, and preventing accidents.
  • Right to Information: Passengers have the right to be informed about their journey, including safety instructions, emergency procedures, and any risks involved in certain activities.

These rights are protected by maritime law, which is governed by international conventions like the Athens Convention and Maritime Labour Convention. These regulations hold cruise lines accountable for maintaining the safety and well-being of passengers.

Unfortunately, these rights can be violated if a cruise line fails to uphold their duty of care. In cases of accidents, negligence, or improper conduct, passengers may suffer serious injuries, and cruise lines may be held liable for their failure to protect passengers.

What to Do Immediately After a Cruise Ship Injury

If you are injured while on a cruise, it’s important to take action to protect your health and legal rights. Here are some immediate steps to follow:

  • Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don’t feel injured, seek medical help immediately. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, such as concussions or internal injuries.
  • Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any unsafe conditions (like wet floors or faulty equipment). This evidence can strengthen your case.
  • Report the Incident: Report the injury to the cruise ship personnel and ensure an incident report is filed. This provides a documented record of the accident.
  • Gather Witness Statements: If there were any witnesses to the incident, ask for their contact information and statements. Witness testimony can help support your claim.

Common Causes of Cruise Ship Injuries

Injuries can occur on cruise ships due to various factors. Some of the most common causes of accidents include:

  • Wet Floors: Slip and fall accidents are frequent due to wet or slippery surfaces on decks, hallways, or pools.
  • Faulty Equipment: Broken or poorly maintained equipment, such as gym machinery, pool railings, or balconies, can lead to serious injuries.
  • Inadequate Security: Insufficient security measures can lead to assault or theft, particularly in crowded or unsecured areas.
  • Poor Maintenance: Unaddressed hazards like damaged stairs, uneven floors, or obstructed pathways can cause accidents and injuries.

There have been cases of passengers suffering serious injuries due to these factors, often resulting from the cruise line’s negligence in maintaining safe conditions. For example, a passenger could slip on a wet floor near the pool or fall overboard due to poorly maintained railings. In such cases, the cruise line may be held accountable for their failure to maintain a safe environment.

By understanding these common causes and knowing your rights, you can better protect yourself and take the necessary steps to seek compensation if you are injured on a cruise.

Expert Maritime Legal Representation in Miami

Accidents can happen for any number of reasons on cruise ships. By law, cruise ships are held to higher standards of care, and thus are obligated to give their passengers safe transport. That is why it becomes a serious legal issue if a cruise ship fails to provide the correct level of safety. When you call our legal team, we can carefully review your incident to determine where liability rests and work with you to craft a claim.

Types of Cruise Ship Injury Cases We Handle:

When you talk to Michael C. Black, P.A., you can rest assured knowing your case is in reliable hands. Our job is to research the laws involved in your case and identify the cruise line's liability in your accident. We go above and beyond in this, ensuring our clients have the strongest claims possible. You have every right to seek compensation for your injuries, so let our trusted Miami cruise ship injury attorneys handle your case for you.

FAQ: Cruise Ship Injury Claims

  • What should I do if I get injured on a cruise? 
    If you are injured on a cruise, your first priority should be seeking immediate medical attention. Even if the injury seems minor, it is important to get checked by medical staff. Afterward, document the scene by taking photos of your injuries and any hazardous conditions. Report the incident to the cruise line and gather witness statements to support your claim.
  • Can I sue a cruise line for an injury I sustained onboard? 
    Yes, you can file a lawsuit against a cruise line if the injury was caused by the cruise line’s negligence or failure to maintain a safe environment. Common claims involve slip and fall accidents, food poisoning, or inadequate medical care. An experienced attorney can help you understand if you have a valid claim and guide you through the legal process.
  • How long do I have to file a lawsuit for a cruise ship injury? 
    The statute of limitations for cruise ship injury claims varies depending on the specifics of the case and where the cruise line is registered. In general, you must file your claim within one to three years of the injury. It's important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you meet the necessary deadlines.
  • Can I be compensated for emotional distress after a cruise injury? 
    Yes, emotional distress is a type of non-economic damage that can be included in a claim. If your injury resulted in emotional suffering such as anxiety, depression, or trauma, you may be entitled to compensation for these damages in addition to physical injuries.
  • What kind of injuries are most common on cruise ships? 
    Common injuries on cruise ships include slip and falls (especially on wet or slippery decks), food poisoning, swimming pool accidents, assaults, and injuries caused by faulty equipment or poor ship maintenance. Each type of injury requires a different approach to proving liability.
  • Can I pursue a wrongful death claim if a loved one dies on a cruise? 
    Yes, if your loved one dies on a cruise due to negligence or wrongdoing by the cruise line, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim. This can include accidents caused by inadequate safety measures, medical negligence, or dangerous ship conditions. Consulting with a wrongful death attorney is essential to understand your legal options.
  • What if the cruise ship is registered in a foreign country? 
    Cruise ships that operate internationally are typically registered in foreign countries. However, this does not prevent you from filing a lawsuit. Many cruise lines have specific legal jurisdictions where claims can be filed, and an experienced cruise ship injury attorney can help navigate these complex legalities.

Injured on a cruise? Let our Board Certified attorneys help you get the compensation you deserve. Call Michael C. Black, P.A. now at (305) 964-8792 for a free consultation.

Why We are Qualified to Take on Your Case

  • Over 25 Years of Experience
  • Board-certified in Maritime & Admiralty Law
  • Free Phone Consultations Available
  • Attentive & Communicative with Every Client