Cruise Ship Injuries and Assaults
Every year millions of passengers board cruise ships with the expectations of enjoying a vacation, visiting new destinations and taking a break from the stresses of everyday life. Yet, all too often, the carefree vacation turns into a dangerous voyage where passengers’ health and safety are put at risk.
If you have been hurt, or a loved one has been killed, because of conduct occurring on a cruise ship, then it is important to seek the assistance of experienced cruise ship attorneys to help you seek justice. The attorneys of Munley, Munley & Cartwright are committed to helping you and your family. We can help you obtain the compensation you need to recover from your injuries and get on with your life. Contact us online today for a free consultation or call us toll free at 877-421-9173.
Common Types of Cruise Ship Injuries
Cruise ships are a common place for injuries because of the close and constant proximity of passengers and the nature of the vehicle. Yet, the types of injuries that can occur on cruise ships are diverse and include:
- Food Poisoning. Cruise ships are well-known for their abundant dining options and buffets. While passengers relish in the constant treats, there is a risk that food will not be properly handled and that food-borne illnesses will result. Since much of the food comes from the same sources, food poisoning can seriously affect many people onboard a cruise ship.
- Assaults. Physical assaults remain a problem on cruise ships for several reasons. First, cruise ships do not typically have police officers on-board. That means that any reliable investigation of the alleged assault often must wait until the ship docks. That time lag can be significant and impede the proper investigation of the assault, making it advantageous to the perpetrator of the crime. Second, alcoholic consumption is a large part of most cruises, which may make assaults of a sexual nature more likely. Third, security on guest staterooms is often lacking, making it easier for assaults to occur. The Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act of 2008 was introduced in the United States Senate in 2008 to deal with this problem but has not yet been voted into law as of December 2009. An assault victim suffers the same serious damages whether the crime occurs on a cruise ship or on land. Cruise ship attorneys can help cruise ship assault victims bring civil actions against their assaulter and the cruise ship, if appropriate, so that the victim can recover fair and equitable damages.
- Contagious Diseases. Contagious diseases, particularly gastrointestinal diseases, spread quickly in well-populated areas such as cruise ships. Gastrointestinal diseases are not only unpleasant and inconvenient but also dangerous. They can result in dehydration and serious medical complications. Accordingly, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has established a Vessel Sanitation Program that is designed to help cruise ships avoid the spread of contagious gastrointestinal diseases and inform the public about cruise ship compliance with food-related regulations. When cruise ships fail to follow these guidelines, they may be held liable for the illnesses that result.
- Slip and Fall Accidents. Wet and slippery decks and flooring can cause a cruise passenger to slip and fall. Serious medical problems such as brain and spinal injuries, broken bones and internal injuries can result.
How a Cruise Ship Accident Attorney Can Help You
A cruise ship attorney from the law firm of Munley, Munley & Cartwright can help you recover damages from the cruise line. Cruises are big business and will be well-represented by legal counsel if you file a lawsuit. You deserve the same advantage and our attorneys are ready to provide you with the understanding counsel and experienced legal representation that you need if you have been injured in a cruise ship accident.
At Munley, Munley & Cartwright, we understand the complexity of personal injury laws and the challenge of proving negligence in cruise ship cases. We conduct our own detailed investigations and we know how to prepare a successful case when dealing with large corporations such as cruise ship owners. Please contact us today via our online contact form or at 877-421-9173 for additional information.
