Cruise Ship Accident
When you take a cruise, you expect your basic needs and safety to be handled by expert staff. But if the cruise line is neglectful, you may suffer an injury, or worse.
Maritime laws, which combine state law, federal law, and international treaties, depending on the route of the cruise ship, can be hard to navigate. That’s why it’s important to work with an experienced lawyer (and as soon as possible) after sustaining an injury in a cruise ship accident.
Understanding the Complexities of Cruise Ship Laws
Even though both you and the cruise ship may originate in the same country, there’s a chance you’ll have to abide by a different set of laws. For example, if you sustain an injury in international waters, or if you’re on the ship in some other country, you may have to consider the possibility of working in another court system.
Additionally, you should be aware that the statute of limitations for claims on cruise ships may be shorter than other claims. Accordingly, it’s important to start working with a lawyer as soon as possible after the incident.
Choice of Venue
Most, if not all, Cruise Ship companies have provisions in the contracts that require passengers to file any claim in Federal Court. Specifically, in the United States District Court, Southern District of Florida. Moreover, the attorney representing you is required to be admitted to practice in Federal Court.
Cruise Ship Accident Victims
Victims of cruise ship accidents can be either passengers or crew members. Either way, the cruise ship company may be liable for the damages. For example, if a cruise ship capsizes or crashes due to known mechanical issues, both the staff members and passengers may be entitled to compensation.
Reasonable Care on a Cruise Ship
Cruise ships, like most other companies and organizations, are required to exercise “reasonable care” for their customers. When onboard a cruise ship, the cruise ship is responsible for ensuring your safety and minimizing potential harm.
Reasonable care can be breached in a number of different ways, including:
If any of these violations of reasonable care are breached, resulting in death or injury, the cruise ship may be forced to pay the victims.
Complicating Factors for Cruise Ship Accidents
The amount of money paid by the cruise ship may change based on several variables, including:
If you’ve been the victim of a cruise ship accident, or if you sustained harm due to the neglect of a cruise ship company, contact Manny Arce for a free consultation. We’ll work with you to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.