Miami Personal Injury Lawyer Blog
If you are injured while boarding or disembarking a cruise ship in Miami, various forms of negligence may be to blame. Liability often falls on the cruise line or port operators, and victims may pursue compensation under maritime law. However, certain deadlines apply that tend to be shorter than the two-year statute of limitations in Florida.
Because of the complex nature of maritime law and legal claims, it is wise to retain a Miami cruise ship accident lawyer for assistance. Some background may also be helpful.
Common Causes of Cruise Ship On and Off-Boarding Injuries
Many cruise ship injuries happen not at sea, but while passengers are boarding or leaving the vessel in Miami. Factors that can easily cause falls include:
- Slippery gangways
- Uneven steps
- Broken railings
- Crowded conditions
- Poor lighting or wet surfaces
- Failure to provide proper assistance for elderly or disabled travelers
These hazards can lead to serious injuries, including fractures, head trauma, or sprains, leaving victims with unexpected medical and financial burdens.
Who Is Liable if You are Hurt While Boarding or Leaving a Cruise Ship in Miami?
Determining liability in a cruise ship injury case in Miami can be complex. The cruise line may be responsible if unsafe conditions existed on the gangway, ramp, or dock. Port operators and third-party contractors could also share liability depending on where the accident occurred.
Federal maritime law often applies, meaning strict rules govern injury claims. Victims must prove negligence to recover damages, which typically requires documenting the unsafe condition and showing the responsible party failed to provide reasonable safety measures.
Compensation Available for Cruise Ship Accidents
Passengers injured while boarding or disembarking a cruise ship in Miami may be entitled to several forms of compensation. This can include reimbursement for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages from missed work
- Pain and suffering
In more serious cases, victims may also claim future medical expenses or diminished earning capacity. Note that cruise lines and insurers will often attempt to minimize payouts or point to waivers alleging you released any claims.
How Miami Cruise Ship Injury Lawyers Can Protect Your Rights
Cruise ship injury claims are not straightforward. Maritime law has strict deadlines, and cruise ticket contracts often contain provisions limiting where and how lawsuits can be filed. A Miami cruise ship injury lawyer understands these legal complexities and can ensure victims meet critical deadlines.
Attorneys can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and negotiate with cruise lines on behalf of injured passengers. Having a skilled lawyer not only increases the chances of fair compensation but also relieves stress during an already difficult recovery.
Our Miami Cruise Ship Accidents Attorney Provide Critical Legal Support
Hiring a local lawyer in Miami is often the best choice after a cruise ship injury because local attorneys understand the courts, judges, and legal landscape in South Florida. At Gerson & Schwartz, PA, our team brings decades of experience handling complex cruise ship and maritime accident cases. With offices in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach, we are ready to assist you. Visit us online or call (305) 371-6000 today to schedule your free consultation.
