Types Of Cruise Ship Accidents
Victims of
cruise ship accidents may be unaware that the cruise line and other parties can be held legally responsible for their injuries. When you step on a cruise ship, you are entering an environment that is every bit as complex and potentially hazardous as a hotel, your own home, and even the larger confines of your town or city.
Not every accident on a cruise ship means that the cruise line is to blame. Passengers who know their rights, however, will be able to recognize when the cruise line is liable for accidental or intentional ship-related injuries.
Falling Objects
If you are struck by a falling object onboard your cruise ship or while docked in a port, the company may or may not be liable. It depends on the incident and how responsible you are for the falling object.
For instance, if the ship lists suddenly and items fly out of stateroom cabinets, you may be responsible if you didn’t secure the doors as directed. On the other hand, faulty recreational gear such as an errant golf ball can be placed in the cruise line’s court of liability.
Falls can happen anywhere on a ship, and adequate handholds and guardrails are the responsibility of the cruise maintenance staff. Standing water on floor tiles can also cause a dangerous slip near pools or areas being cleaned. If you sustain broken bones or other injuries due to slip and fall accidents, no matter how minor, document and report them as you may decide to file a claim later.
Intentional Assault on Cruise Ships
As in most places where large numbers of strangers are brought together, physical assault and cases of rape do occur on cruise ships. The likelihood grows when there is a lot of alcohol consumed and a party atmosphere is on the ship. Among cruise ship patrons, an “anything goes” attitude increases the chances of personal clashes, many of them sexual in nature.
Don’t rule out a lawsuit just because you feel guilty or ashamed of being violated on a cruise ship. If you have been assaulted by a crew member or another passenger, the cruise line may bear some of the legal liability.
A
maritime attorney can help you understand your rights and determine liability after a cruise ship accident. Most states have a statute of limitations that may prohibit you from filing a lawsuit if too much time has passed.
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