cruise ship accidents

The Role of Expert Witnesses in Cruise Accident Cases

Published on: February 14, 2025 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

Cruise ship accidents can result in serious injuries, leaving victims with considerable losses. It’s a relief to know that you have options under Florida law, and your success with a claim comes down to evidence. One crucial factor that can significantly impact the outcome of a cruise accident lawsuit is the use of expert witnesses. The details on the role of experts in your case depend upon where you file, but the law in Florida allows experts for designated purposes.

Your Miami cruise ship accident lawyer may work with different types of experts, so some background is useful.

Definition of Expert Witness in Cruise Accident Cases

How Do I File a Cruise Ship Accident Claim in Miami?

Published on: November 29, 2024 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

Cruise bookings remain high in Miami, where dozens of cruise lines operate vessels in and out of Port of Miami throughout the year. Depending on your interests and preferences, you can hop on a cruise any month and expect ideal weather. The peak season for cruises in Miami runs from December to April, while you could avoid some crowds by planning your vacation in September or October.

One thing you cannot plan is cruise ship accidents, which can derail your trip and cause significant physical, financial, and emotional losses. It is important to discuss your situation with a Miami cruise ship accident lawyer as soon as possible, but you can also use some background information.

Common Cruise Ship Accidental Injuries

How Responsible Cruise Operators Protect Passengers

Published on: July 12, 2024 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

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

Civil Lawsuits Filed After Sexual Assault on Miami Cruise Ship

Published on: January 5, 2024 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

Cruise vacations deliver memories for a lifetime, but once in a while, stories hit the headlines regarding onboard incidents that are truly shocking. In a recent news report, two women have filed lawsuits alleging sexual assault by a Margaritaville at Sea cruise ship bartender who had been serving them. The crew member stole one victim’s room key that she had used to charge drinks. Later, he entered the cabin after the two victims were asleep, raping both of them. One of the women became pregnant because of the encounter.

The crew member pled guilty to criminal charges following the incident, while the recently filed civil lawsuits seek damages against the Margaritaville cruise line. A Miami cruise ship accident lawyer can provide details on passengers’ rights, as this horrific incident raises questions about liability for the cruise line in light of criminal activity.

Criminal Charges for Sexual Assault

Should I Settle a Miami Cruise Accident Claim?

Published on: November 17, 2023 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

When the unthinkable happens, and you are injured on a Miami cruise vacation, the consequences for your trip are just the beginning. In the aftermath, you could suffer significant physical, emotional, and financial losses due to your injuries. The good news is that you have legal remedies, including filing an injury claim and suing in court. As part of the process, you may have the opportunity to settle your claim without litigation. A look at the latest statistics on personal injury claims reveals that this is a common outcome. Up to 95% of all accident cases are resolved via settlement rather than a trial.

Cruise ship accidents are a unique type of personal injury claim, but the principles of settlement still apply. The benefits are significant, so it is smart to carefully consider working out your case by agreement. You can count on a Miami cruise ship accident attorney to guide you in negotiations, and some information on the advantages will be helpful.

Benefits of Settling Cruise Ship Accident Claims