Cowen Edwards Trial Lawyers helps people in Florida when they’re injured on a cruise ship. While it’s pretty unique, an injury while you’re on a cruise still raises a lot of different questions–many of which which revolve around responsibility. Our experienced team can help you figure out if the cruise ship company is responsible, or if it’s someone else. Then, we’ll guide you through the claims process. Contact us today for a free consultation to get started.
Is a Cruise Ship Company Responsible If I Get Hurt?
No matter what cruise ship or company you decide to join for a voyage, there’s certain protections and expectations you have. But in terms of responsibility, where your injury happens matters:
- If you’re hurt while the ship is still docked in Florida, Florida state law likely applies. But once the ship enters international waters or docks in another country, different laws may come into play.
Most cruise ship cases fall under maritime law, which works differently than Florida’s state laws. That said, if your injury was caused by something like a crew member’s carelessness or another passenger’s actions, then the case is treated similarly to a premises liability claim, just like if you slipped and fell at a store on land.
Cruise ships are considered “common carriers” under the law, which means the crew and cruise line have a higher duty to keep passengers safe. If they fail to do so and you or someone else gets hurt, you can file an injury claim and recover damages.
But liability doesn’t always fall on just the cruise ship itself. Others who could share responsibility include:
- The cruise line’s parent company
- Crew members
- Terminal operators and authorities
- Vendors in the terminal (shops, bars, restaurants)
- Equipment manufacturers
- Onboard security
- Other passengers
As you can see, cruise injury cases can be complex. While the cruise ship’s company is ultimately responsible for what happens on board one of their ships, it all comes down to what happened. It’s also important for you to take certain steps after the accident itself.
What Should I Do After My Accident on a Cruise Ship?
Cruises are supposed to be fun and relaxing, but accidents can still happen. While the responsibility for your injuries and accident is ultimately going to come down to what actually happened, there’s a few things you’ll need to do after the accident to set up your potential claim:
- Report the accident – Let the crew or ship management know about the accident right away and ask for an official report. Also make sure they provide you with a checkup from onboard medical staff.
- Document what happened – Take pictures or videos of where the accident happened, especially if there were obvious hazards.
- Talk to witnesses – Get statements from anyone who saw the accident–including people outside your travel group.
- Watch your statements – When speaking about the accident, don’t admit fault and generally be careful about what you say. Misstatements might be used against you later.
- Keep evidence – Hang on to anything damaged in the accident (clothing, gear, etc.). Don’t throw anything away or try to fix it just yet.
- Keep all documentation and records – Save every communication–emails, letters, phone calls–with the cruise line, insurance companies, and lawyers.
Accidents at sea can lead to a wide range of injuries, from slip-and-falls to drownings. The reality is that even minor injuries can ruin your trip. But if the cruise line or others were at fault, you generally have a right to file a claim and recover financial support for your losses, which usually includes things like:
- Medical expenses and ongoing care needs
- Lost income or loss of earning potential
- Repair/replacement costs for damaged property, like your phone, clothing, luggage, or anything else.
- Costs for your physical pain and suffering
- Costs for your emotional distress
- Costs relating to any reduced quality of life you go through because of your injuries
- Funeral or burial expenses and other damages if your accident is fatal
Obviously, the quicker you act, the easier it will be to get the information and evidence you’re going to need for your claim. Also remember, if the accident happens in Florida, you only have two years from the date of the accident to file.
How Can Cowen Edwards Help You After a Cruise Ship Accident?
Not every cruise accident needs a lawyer. If your injury is minor, you might resolve everything with help from the ship’s crew. But if the injury is serious or the experience was traumatic, you may want to take legal action. Our team can help you by:
- Investigating the accident
- Figuring out who’s responsible
- Collecting key evidence and evaluating your damages
- Handling your insurance claim or lawsuit
- Making the legal process less overwhelming
Whether your cruise departed from Florida or another port, and no matter which cruise line you were on, you have rights. Let us help you protect them. Contact us today for a free consultation.
