That first step onto a cruise ship should be full of excitement and anticipation, but for some, it’s the start of an injury they didn’t see coming. Boarding and disembarking can be dangerous if cruise lines fail to provide safe and well-maintained conditions. Slippery walkways, defective ramps, or inattentive staff can leave you injured and struggling to figure out what comes next.
Don’t let the cruise line avoid accountability—reach out to Andrew Winston, a trusted maritime law cruise ship accident lawyer, for a free consultation now.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention (If You Haven’t Already)
Your health should always come first. Even if your injuries seem minor, underlying issues like head trauma or internal injuries may worsen if left untreated. It’s essential to get examined by both the ship’s medical staff and a licensed doctor onshore.
Medical records will be a cornerstone of your claim. They help demonstrate the severity of your injuries and how they directly resulted from the accident. Without these records, proving your case against the cruise line could become significantly more challenging.
Report the Injury and File an Official Report
- Onboard crew: Inform the ship’s staff immediately about the injury. This often includes reporting to guest services or the onboard medical team.
- Port staff: If the injury occurred while disembarking or embarking at a port, notify port authorities or personnel responsible for the embarkation area.
- Other relevant authorities: If applicable, local port authorities or law enforcement may need to be involved, especially for serious injuries.
Gather and Organize All Documentation Related to the Injury
Organize any records and documents related to the incident. These might include:
- Medical reports and bills from both onboard and land-based healthcare providers.
- Communication from the cruise line, such as emails, forms, or any statements from their representatives.
- Receipts for out-of-pocket expenses, including medical supplies, transportation, or changes in travel plans caused by your injury.
Avoid Direct Communication with the Cruise Line’s Representatives
Cruise lines are often prepared to minimize their liability after an injury. Representatives may contact you to gather information, request a statement, or even offer a settlement. While these offers might seem convenient, they’re typically designed to protect the cruise line—not you.
You should never sign any documents or accept compensation without consulting an attorney. Speaking with legal counsel ensures that your interests are prioritized, not the cruise line’s bottom line.
Be Aware of Filing Deadlines for Cruise Ship Injury Claims
Injuries that occur on a cruise ship fall under maritime law, which often imposes shorter deadlines than standard personal injury cases. For many cruise lines, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is just one year from the date of the incident.
Additionally, some cruise tickets require passengers to submit a written notice of their intent to file a claim within six months. These deadlines are strict, and missing them could result in losing your right to seek compensation.
Protect Your Rights with a Cruise Ship Accident Lawyer
Suffering an injury while embarking or disembarking a cruise ship can leave you feeling powerless, especially when dealing with large cruise companies. At The Winston Law Firm, we are committed to leveling the playing field and standing up for injured passengers.
Attorney Andrew Winston has a deep understanding of maritime law and years of experience pursuing claims against cruise lines. He will thoroughly investigate your case, collect evidence, and ensure you’re not pressured into accepting an unfair settlement.
Don’t wait to take action—cruise ship injury cases often have strict filing deadlines. Call The Winston Law Firm at 954-606-6606 or 866-306-9606 for a free consultation, or reach out online to start your path to justice.
