Cruise Ship Accident Lawyer Blog

Five Steps to Protect Your Injury Claim After a Cruise Ship Injury

October 2, 2026 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

Cruise vacations continue to draw crowds, with 2026 expected to be the fourth consecutive year of record-setting passenger volume. AAA projects that 21.7 million Americans will take ocean cruises in 2026, a 4.5% increase over 2025. More guests means higher potential for cruise ship accidents, so extra caution can help you stay safe.

However, injuries still happen, putting your rights and your health at stake. Trust a Miami cruise ship accident attorney to guide you through the legal process, but there are steps you can take to protect your injury claim.

Report Your Cruise Ship Injury Immediately

Cruise Ship Injury Claims: Why You Cannot Wait to Act

September 25, 2026 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

When you suffer injuries in a cruise ship accident, it is understandable that you just want to focus on recovery and getting your life back. However, there are important reasons that you must act right away. Fortunately, you can protect your rights with some basic steps, starting with contacting a Miami cruise ship accident lawyer. In addition, keep in mind a few details about why it is a mistake to wait.

How Long Do You Have to File a Cruise Ship Injury Claim?

US maritime law gives injured passengers up to three years after the injury to file a lawsuit. However, a separate section of the statute allows cruise lines to require litigation within one year. Many tickets also set shorter deadlines for written notice, as described below. Miss either deadline, and a court may dismiss your case. These limits vary by cruise line, so read your ticket contract promptly to protect your rights.

The Hidden Dangers of Cruise Ship Medical Care

September 18, 2026 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

You hope to never need medical care while enjoying a cruise vacation, but it is a comfort to know that there are facilities available. Federal law requires cruise ships to always have a licensed physician present and available to treat passengers during an emergency.

However, beyond the legal requirement, there can still be concerns about the quality of medical care on board. Mistakes happen, and it is critical to discuss your rights with a Miami cruise ship accident lawyer if you suffer harm. Some information about the hidden dangers is also helpful.

What is the Medical Standard of Care At Sea?

Injured on a Cruise? Here’s How to Legally Hold the Cruise Line Accountable

September 11, 2026 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

Though cruise ships are subject to minimum safety standards, you might be surprised to learn that accountability is lacking. The SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) treaty establishes rules for ship construction, equipment, and emergencies, but violations do not automatically equal liability. As an injured passenger, you must be proactive to protect your rights.

While you can count on your Miami cruise ship accident attorney to handle the details, here are the basic steps for legally holding a cruise line accountable for your injuries.

Report the Accident to the Cruise Line

Who Can Be Held Liable When a Drunk Cruise Passenger Assaults a Child?

September 4, 2026 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

In a shocking video obtained by the media, an intoxicated passenger is seen doing the unthinkable by attacking two children during a recent Caribbean cruise. According to reports and surveillance footage, the man chased and punched the kids as they were playing in a hallway. He faces criminal charges, which could include fines and jail time.

However, victims’ families may also have legal remedies after a criminal attack. A Miami cruise ship accident attorney can explain how liability works when a drunk passenger attacks and why it is important to act quickly.

Can a Cruise Line Be Liable for a Drunk Passenger?

What to Expect at a Deposition in Your Cruise Ship Injury Case

August 28, 2026 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

When an injury happens on a cruise ship, victims have many of the same rights they would have under the personal injury laws of their home state in the US. A key difference is that federal maritime laws apply, which sets deadlines and the location of the courtroom. In addition, the Federal Rules of Evidence cover these cases as the parties explore the facts.

The rules require that parties appear for a deposition if requested, so it is possible that you will be called if you were injured onboard a cruise. You can rely on your Miami cruise ship accident lawyer for support, but here are a few things victims should know before they testify.

What is a Deposition in a Personal Injury Lawsuit?

From Onboard Tech to AI: Digital Evidence Cruise Lines Don’t Want You to Know About

August 21, 2026 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

Love it or hate it, technology is a part of everyday life. We use it for personal and professional reasons, so it is not a surprise to learn that tech works its way to cruise vacations. From the wearable devices that are now standard on cruises to artificial intelligence that enhances safety, modern ships are stocked with the latest features.

While their focus is convenience and guest experience, onboard technology also collects a plethora of information. Your Miami cruise ship accident attorney can tell you how digital evidence may play a role in an injury claim, and a summary is helpful.

Onboard Surveillance Cameras and Cruise Ship Accidents

Cruise Ship Injury Waivers: Are They Actually Legally Binding?

August 14, 2026 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

As you are reviewing the documentation that accompanies your cruise ticket, you are probably paying more attention to the fun you will have than the legal impact. A closer look at the language of your contract probably reveals liability waivers that attempt to limit the cruise line’s fault. Federal maritime laws govern these clauses, and they are permitted for certain purposes.

Still, when cruise lines go too far with waivers, they may not be enforceable. You may still have legal options if you signed one, and a Miami cruise ship accident lawyer can assess your paperwork. It is also helpful to review some basics about how waivers work.

Common Waiver Clauses in Cruise Contracts

Is the Cruise Line Liable for Injuries Caused by Construction Defects?

August 7, 2026 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

You appreciate that there is some risk when you take part in the thrilling adventures and fun activities on a cruise, but you probably do not expect the ship itself to cause injuries. According to travel industry reports, there have been two recent incidents involving falling ceiling panels, causing harm to passengers.

These accidents raise the question of whether the cruise line can be liable for construction defects, and whether there may be additional parties victims can pursue for negligence. A Miami cruise ship accident attorney can explain how maritime law works, and some background is helpful.

What Counts as a Construction Defect on a Cruise Ship?

Cruise Ship Theft Crimes: What Passengers Need to Know About Their Legal Rights

July 31, 2026 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

Crime can happen anywhere, so it is comforting to know that federal maritime law allows US officials to intervene when crimes occur on cruise ships sailing out of our nation’s ports. The Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act allows the FBI to pursue criminal charges for theft and other offenses, giving victims of crime closure when the perpetrator is justly convicted.

However, US maritime laws also allow you to pursue a civil case if you were injured in a theft crime on a cruise. A Miami cruise ship accident attorney can advise you on the legal process to recover medical costs, pain and suffering, and other compensation. An overview will help you understand your legal rights as a victim.

What Counts as Theft on a Cruise Ship?