Founder and Managing Partner
How can you protect your rights after a cruise ship accident?
Taking a cruise often makes for an enjoyable vacation. Most excursions take passengers to exotic and beautiful locations, and give the opportunity to have fun while meeting a variety of people from around the world.
However, serious injuries on cruise ships do occur. In late January, a 20-year-old crewmember on the Legend of the Seas was flown by helicopter to a hospital after suffering a lower back fracture. The ship was traveling to Brisbane, Australia via the Cook Strait, and was around 32 kilometers from land when the helicopter arrived.
Suffering an accident on a cruise ship, especially if you are enjoying a vacation, can often be a traumatic and stressful experience. You could be injured in a slip and fall accident, suffer food poisoning or an allergic reaction, or get hurt by an unsecured item on the ship.
It is important to remember that you may be eligible for compensation from the cruise ship company, and there are several things you can do in order to build your case.
What Are The Steps?
- Seek medical attention. Most cruise ships have medical equipment and personnel who are trained to render aid if you do suffer an injury. Ensure any injuries you do suffer are properly treated and taken care of. It is also important you officially report the accident and any injuries to someone on the crew in a position of authority, and ensure any and all of your injuries and treatment is documented.
- Contact an experienced cruise ship attorney. A lawyer who has experience in cruise ship injury cases is often an invaluable resource as you navigate the aftermath of your accident. The right attorney will guide you through the steps you need to take and work with you to ensure your rights are upheld.
- Document everything. It is important to get as much information as you can regarding the circumstances of the accident. Take photographs or video of the area where the accident occurred, take measurements, and write down as many details as you can remember.This information will often be requested by the cruise ship company and will be a valuable asset to an attorney. If you did fall or slip, make sure to seal and hold on to the shoes you were wearing, as they can be useful evidence in a case.
- Gather Witness Testimonies. Do not be afraid to get the phone numbers and addresses of any witnesses who you think may be able to comment on the accident, or who would be able to provide any other contact or background information. Testimonials from others can be a great way to build a defense. Cruise ship employees will sometimes have you fill out documentation or sign statements about the accident. Make sure you ask for copies of any paperwork that comes your way.
Have You Been Injured in a Cruise Ship Accident?
If you or someone you love has been injured on a cruise ship, it is helpful to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible. The law firm of J&Y represents personal injury victims in Los Angeles, San Diego, and throughout the State of California. Contact us today for a free consultation at 888.806.6722.