subject: Is A Cruise Accident Lawsuit Really Necessary? [print this page] Accidents that occur on cruises are no picnic; especially since cruises are supposed be relaxing vacations. What makes it worse is that cruise lines have special parameters in place that exist to make it more difficult for you to file a lawsuit against them. For example, you can only file a lawsuit against a cruise line within a year after the accident occurred. Some cruises can only be sued in the city their company is based out of. Contacting a cruise line injury lawyer is the best way to navigate the difficult process of filing a lawsuit against a cruise line.
Cruise Line Accidents can Occur Anywhere - Even on Dry Land
Many cruise line accidents occur during excursions to foreign ports. Some accidents even occur in the cruises port of origin. These can involve bus tour accidents, parasailing accidents, jet skiing accidents and accidents that take place on hikes and foot tours. Sometimes, cruise lines will lead you to believe that you are attending a cruise-sponsored event, when in reality you are attending an event that is hosted by an entirely separate company. If you were injured during an excursion that took place while you were on a cruise, it is important to contact a cruise line injury lawyer so that you can make sure that all your rights are protected.
Sexual Assaults
Unfortunately, sexual assaults take place far too frequently on cruises. Alcoholic beverages and entertainment are offered 24/7 on cruise ships, which can lead to dangerous environments and behaviors. Sexual assault can occur on cruise ships because of the excess of alcohol and the assumption of anonymity in such a large group of people. However, cruise lines can be held responsible for the actions taken by their crew members, and it is important that you know about your ability to seek reimbursement for the emotional trauma of a sexual assault through a cruise line lawsuit.
Missing Persons
Sometimes people forget to get back on the boat, and sometimes the boat chooses to leave port without them. This can occur during excursions to foreign ports, and it can be devastating and traumatizing to those involved. Cruise ships also offer alcohol and entertainment at all times, which can lead to an environment where it is hard to keep track of your companions. Missing person situations can be dangerous, especially when they involve children that may wander into restricted areas such as lifeboats or engine rooms. Cruise lines can be held responsible for losing a passenger whether on the ship or off.
What Cruise Line Lawyers Do
Whether its a simple slip and fall case or a case of catastrophic injury, cruise line lawyers will help you navigate through the troubled and traumatic "waters" of filing a cruise line lawsuit. A cruise line lawyer will make sure a thorough investigation is done regarding the incident, and will make sure that the cruise understands what they did wrong. Contacting a cruise line lawyer is important due to the statute of limitations on cruise line lawsuits. Contacting a lawyer immediately after the accident occurs helps raise your chances of winning a lawsuit filed against a cruise line.
