Cruise Ship Injury FAQ
Cruise ship injury claims follow different rules than most injury cases. Many of those rules are found in the fine print of your passenger ticket.
Are there special deadlines for cruise injury claims?
Usually. Federal law allows cruise lines to shorten the time to give notice of a claim and to file suit, and most passenger tickets do. Common terms require written notice within months and a lawsuit within one year of the injury. Review your ticket contract and speak with a lawyer quickly.
Where do I have to file a lawsuit?
Most cruise tickets contain a forum selection clause requiring suit in a specific court, often a federal court in Florida. Filing in the wrong court can jeopardize a claim. Our firm has an office in Fort Lauderdale and represents passengers in these cases.
What kinds of injuries lead to claims?
Common claims involve slip-and-fall injuries, inadequate medical care on board, assaults, injuries during shore excursions, tender and gangway accidents, and unsafe conditions on the ship.
What should I do after an injury on board?
Report the incident to the ship and request a copy of the report, photograph the scene, collect witness names, keep your ticket and receipts, and get medical care. Be cautious about signing anything the cruise line provides.
Can I bring a claim for a shore excursion injury?
Possibly. Whether the cruise line is responsible depends on how the excursion was sold and operated and on the terms of the ticket. These claims are fact-specific.
Call Muggeo & Associates at (978) 741-1177 or send us a message to discuss your situation.
This page provides general information only and is not legal advice. Laws and deadlines vary by jurisdiction and change over time. Contacting the firm does not create an attorney-client relationship. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.