Understanding Cruise Ship Liability

Cruises offer the chance to unwind, explore, and experience new adventures, but injuries or accidents can unfortunately happen. And sometimes, these injuries are due to a cruise line’s negligence. Understanding cruise ship liability is essential if you or a loved one has been injured in any type of accident on a cruise ship. The Miami cruise ship injury attorneys at Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada are here to help answer your questions and advocate on your behalf. We have more than 45 years of hands-on experience successfully handling cases against some of the largest cruise lines, and we know what it takes to connect you with the compensation you deserve for your damages.

Cruise ship injury cases involve a unique set of laws, including U.S. federal maritime law, international laws, and sometimes the specific terms on your ticket. Maritime law typically applies to incidents occurring in navigable waters, governing issues of liability, safety standards, and passenger rights. Many cruise lines include specific clauses in their contracts or ticket agreements that restrict where and how claims can be filed, often mandating a particular court location for any disputes. And, in most cases, cruise lines prefer to litigate these cases in Florida, which is why it’s important to have a local Miami cruise ship lawyer who understands these cases and how they proceed through the system.

Cruise lines have a duty to provide reasonably safe conditions on board and during associated excursions. Below are some common scenarios where cruise lines may be held liable for a passenger’s injuries:

• Falls and Slips: Wet decks, poorly marked hazards, and uneven surfaces can lead to serious falls. If a cruise line does not address these risks adequately or even warn of the dangerous condition, they may be liable for injuries that result.
• Medical Malpractice: While cruise lines often provide onboard medical staff, these medical professionals may not meet the same standards as those on land. If you experience inadequate or inappropriate medical care on a cruise ship that worsens your condition, you may have grounds for a claim.
• Excursion Injuries: Cruise lines often partner with excursion companies. If an excursion provider fails to ensure safety and causes injury, both the excursion company and the cruise line could potentially be held liable.
• Negligent Security: Cruise lines are responsible for maintaining security and preventing foreseeable crimes. If you suffer an injury due to insufficient security measures, such as assault by another passenger, this may be grounds for a claim.

Each of these scenarios is unique, and proving a cruise line’s liability requires a thorough understanding of the circumstances involved. A skilled Miami cruise ship injury lawyer at Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada is immediately available to investigate your case and determine how best to show that the cruise line’s actions—or lack of action—contributed to your injury.

Bringing a successful case against a cruise line requires evidence demonstrating the cruise line’s negligence in causing your injury. To build a strong case, it’s essential to follow these steps:

1. Document the Incident: Take photos, videos, and detailed notes of where and how the injury occurred. Gathering evidence immediately helps capture the conditions that led to the accident.
2. Collect Witness Statements: If other passengers witnessed the incident, gather their contact information and ask if they’d be willing to provide statements to support your claim.
3. Seek Medical Attention: Even if the injury seems minor, see a medical professional as soon as possible. Medical records will be crucial for your case, providing documentation of the injuries sustained.
4. Report the Incident to the Cruise Line: Notify the cruise line and obtain a copy of their incident report. This report can be important evidence showing how the cruise line handled the situation.
5. Obtain and Preserve All Relevant Documents: Keep any cruise tickets, excursion details, and medical records related to your injury. These documents are essential when establishing the facts of your case.

Proving a cruise line’s negligence can be challenging, especially when dealing with large cruise line operators and well-funded insurance companies. However, Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada has extensive experience handling cruise ship injuries and can help guide you through the process, from gathering evidence to building a compelling case resulting in compensation for your injury.

Navigating the legalities of cruise ship liability can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada, we’re here to help you understand your rights and explore your options for seeking compensation after a cruise ship injury. Whether your case involves a fall, medical malpractice, or an excursion accident, our Miami cruise ship injury attorneys will work to hold the responsible parties accountable and advocate for the compensation you deserve including for your past and future pain and suffering. To learn more and schedule your free consultation, call us at 305-448-8585 or connect with our staff by completing our secure online contact form.