Cruise Ship Accident Lawyer

Cruises may be a time of relaxation and an often sought after vacation, but these are unfortunately not always as peaceful as one would assume. While leaving the real world behind can be rejuvenating, it can be problematic should an accident or incident occur. Legal issues can become murky for citizens who become victimized while onboard a cruise ship - and should an injury be sustained, it is important to keep in mind that a claim will not be as straightforward as a personal injury claim would unfold on the mainland.

The laws that apply to cruises are referred to as maritime law and are complex; it is not recommended for the average personal injury attorney to attempt to handle these cases. Instead, you need a lawyer that works with these laws on a regular basis and who knows the nuances. For example, it is important to keep in mind that cruise lines will often include statutes on their tickets that will affect the way in which claims can be brought against the cruise liner. For example, they will shorten the time in which you have to file or they will specify the only area in which a case can be brought in a forum selection clause; typically, this is in Miami, FL.

Cruise Ship Accidents: Passenger and Crew Claims

At Arnold & Itkin, we are well-versed in cruise ship injury claims and will do everything that we can to help represent those who have suffered on these boats. In many situations, we are there to help passengers who have sustained serious injuries while board a cruise. From helping protect those who were victimized in a slip and fall, to those who were injured while participating in a shore excursion, we have the legal knowledge that you need to defend your legal rights. Other incidents that we can help passengers file a claim about include:

• Medical malpractice;
• Injuries at spa or salon;
• Physical or sexual assault; and
• Dram shop liability

Should the unthinkable happen and the ship become involved in an accident, we can also take the time to investigate the cause of the wreck and fight for their deserved rights. These are complex cases that could involve life-threatening and even fatal injuries, so it is not recommended that the average attorney take on this type of claim. We know how maritime law will affect the ability to file a claim and know the limited state of limitations (SOL), so do not hesitate to give us a call so that we can protect your rights.

Beyond this, however, we are also able to protect the rights of crew members who were working aboard the cruise. In many cases, these seamen are covered under the Jones Act and deserve to have their legal rights protected in the same way as any other offshore worker. This could be in relation to a claim of unseaworthiness or negligence - it could also involve defective or dangerous equipment.

Costa Concordia: Cruise Accident Caused by Human Error

In January of 2011, the Costa Concordia ran aground after hitting submerged rocks off the coast of the Isola del Giglio; there were over 3,000 passengers and 1,000 crew members at the time of the accident. The incident caused the boat to heavily list which affected not only the passengers' ability to move throughout the boat, but also the crew members' ability to lower the rescue vessels. In fact, many passengers were forced to shimmy down the side of the boat using ropes and many swam ashore in freezing temperatures.

As of January 16, 2011 there were six official deaths and were around a dozen people who had not been accounted for. The captain of the ship was arrested and jailed on suspicion of manslaughter, abandoning ship and causing a shipwreck. Many, including the chairman and CEO of Costa Crociere, have blamed the shipwreck on the "human error" made by the captain who had made an unauthorized detour to take the ship closer to the island's coastline. Early into investigations, many are claiming this could be the largest maritime insurance loss in recordable history.

Talk to a cruise ship accident attorney today!

If you or a loved one have been injured while aboard a cruise, no matter whether you were a passenger or a crew member, then it is highly encouraged that you get the involvement of a maritime attorney from Arnold & Itkin as soon as possible. We have been successful in recovering hundreds of millions of dollars over the years and we are prepared to go the distance in our fight for you. You can be confident knowing that we will stop at nothing as we fight to help our clients seek the maximum recovery that they deserve.

To schedule your initial case evaluation, please contact a cruise ship accident lawyer from our firm!