Cruise Ship Injuries: Your Rights and What to Do Next
When most people embark on a cruise, their minds switch to relaxation and fun. But, unfortunately, accidents can happen even at sea. In fact, cruise ship injuries are surprisingly more common than you might imagine. And if you’re injured while on a cruise, understanding your rights helps you take appropriate steps afterward.
Aronfeld Trial Lawyers are determined to hold cruise lines responsible for harm caused to their passengers. Plus, their understanding of maritime law gives their clients a powerful legal voice. Thus, their cruise ship injury lawyer can surely help you receive your justified compensation. In fact, all of the clients they’ve represented have successfully recovered damages for cruise-related injuries.
When an injury occurs while on a cruise ship, victims may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages from present and future work, pain and suffering, and other related costs. But what are your rights following an injurious mishap while on a cruise? Let’s explain.
Medical Treatment on Board
Cruise ships are required to provide medical care to injured or ill passengers. They must also comply with health and safety regulations set forth by the United States Coast Guard or vessel country flag registry.
It’s always advisable to seek medical attention, whether you’ve sustained a minor or severe injury. The cruise line may not accept liability without a doctor’s note confirming the injury, so it’s important to document your care and the occurrence.
It’s also your right to disembark a ship, upon request, if you require medical attention unavailable on board. Even so, this shouldn’t undermine other passengers’ safety or security. Hence the ship’s master has the final say on whether you can disembark at a particular port.
Reporting Injuries
After experiencing an injury while on a cruise, you should report the incident promptly. Cruise lines have procedures for reporting accidents, including forms for victims or witnesses to complete. The information collected can be used in further legal proceedings.
Most cruise lines have provisions requiring injured passengers to notify them in writing within a defined period. Some require notice within six months after the injury, while others may set a longer time limit. To that end, ensure you notify the right personnel and follow the correct protocol. If you don’t, it could affect your future legal proceedings. While at it, keep records of everyone you speak to and documents you receive from the cruise line.
Alternatively, if you cannot inform the crew in writing of your situation while on board, send a certified letter after disembarking. Do so within six months of the incident, as some cruise lines have strict time limits on reporting, which can impact the validity of your claim. Also, provide all the details the cruise line requires copies of medical evidence and other documents related to the injury.
Filing A Claim
Cruise lines are required to carry liability insurance covering passenger injuries and other damages incurred during cruises. That said, you can only file a claim if you have proof to support your claim. Besides, proving that the cruise line was negligent is easier said than done.
Therefore, if considering filing a claim, you should seek legal advice from an experienced cruise ship injury lawyer who can help you navigate the intricate process. Also, don’t bide your time, as many countries have statutes of limitations that impact your ability to file a suit against a cruise line. With that in mind, a lawyer can help you prove negligence by doing the following:
- Investigating the incident and gathering evidence of fault
- Determining whether the cruise line breached their duty of care
- Evaluating the value of your claim
- Advising on the best course of action
- Making representations to the cruise line regarding your claim
- Coordinating with witnesses and medical professionals
- Representing you in court
Often, passengers injured balk at the idea of filing a claim against a cruise line. But if you’ve sustained an injury, it’s your right to do so and seek compensation for your medical expenses and other financial losses.
Besides, going up against a large corporation can be intimidating, especially without legal support. A maritime lawyer can help you better understand the claims process and offer legal representation when needed.
Cruise ship injuries can be serious, leading to lifelong complications if not treated properly. Thus, you should take necessary precautions while on board and follow the proper procedure in case of an injury. Also, seek legal advice from an experienced maritime lawyer for a better chance of receiving compensation for your losses.
