Miami Personal Injury Lawyer Blog
In the world of cruise ship accidents, people tend to fixate on all of the different ways the cruise operator went wrong or failed to protect passengers. Therefore, it is also important to focus on the tactics and decisions by cruise lines that enhance safety but often get overlooked. In a recent report, Royal Caribbean announced changes to an upcoming itinerary that had included a stop at a private island port in the northern region of Haiti. Violence in the region had claimed the lives of at least 2,500 victims as of the end of April 2024, and continued unrest would put passengers at risk of serious injuries. The cruise would not be stopping at this particular port.
Had Royal Caribbean not made the changes, any passenger who was harmed by violence during shore excursions might have a claim against the operator for damages. A Miami cruise ship accident attorney can assist with the legal process if you were hurt onboard, and it is helpful to review some information on what cruise operators do to protect passengers.
Other Examples of Cruise Safety Measures
It is wise for cruise operators to decline to stop at a port in which passengers are at risk of violence, as well as other potential hazards. Bad weather, natural disasters, and other events make this a smart decision to protect passengers, even though it means making changes to itineraries. Other examples where cruise companies go to great lengths in terms of safety include:
· Installing railings at proper levels to prevent passengers from going overboard;
· Tying down patio furniture on the sun decks and pool areas when winds whip up;
· Implementing policies that prevent bartenders from overserving passengers;
· Ensuring that lifeguards are on duty at all times during opening hours at pools and water features; and,
· Requiring all passengers to go through muster drills, which educate them on what to do in the event of emergencies.
How Legal Deadlines Work in Cruise Ship Accident Claims
When cruise operators fail in their duty to keep passengers safe, it is possible to file a claim to seek compensation. Still, it is important to note that there are multiple deadlines that require you to act relatively quickly. You might be aware that Florida’s statute of limitations for personal injury actions is two years, and this deadline includes accidents.
However, most cruise ships include clauses in their ticketing documents regarding legal action through a claim or lawsuit. You may be under a different timing restriction, which is usually shorter than the statute of limitations. In some cases, you may have just six months to a year to file a claim with the company.
Consult with a Miami Cruise Ship Accidents Lawyer Today
Cruise operators go to great lengths to make sure passengers stay safe, but they can be liable for failures. To learn more about your rights, please contact Gerson & Schwartz, PA, in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or West Palm Beach, FL. We can schedule a free case review with a knowledgeable Florida cruise ship accident attorney.
