From slip and falls, food poisoning incidents, outbreaks, and shore excursion accidents, you are probably aware of the various ways people get hurt on cruises. However, you may not give much thought to the risks and hazards that cause injuries even before you set foot on the ship. In an average year, almost 5.6 million passengers depart Port Miami. The embarkation process can keep them in the terminal for a couple of hours as guests present cruise documents, show passports, and make arrangements for luggage. Negligence in maintaining port facilities, platforms, docks, and other public spaces can lead to injury-causing accidents.
It is still possible to recover compensation under Florida cruise accident laws when someone is hurt in the port, and these claims contain fewer legal hurdles as compared to being at sea. Retaining a Miami cruise ship accident lawyer is still essential to level the playing field, since you will be going up against a multinational company with a large budget for defending claims. Keeping this important task in mind, there are additional To-Dos if you were hurt in a cruise terminal or port facilities.
Seek Medical Care
Your health is always your first priority, so seek medical treatment appropriate for your injuries. The terminal may have a first aid station, but it may be necessary to head to the ER or an urgent care center for:
- Excessive bleeding;
- Head injuries, especially if you lost consciousness;
- Stitches; and,
- Broken bones.
Notify Cruise Operator
Some accidents may prevent you from embarking, while other injuries might have a serious impact on how well you can enjoy your cruise vacation. Either way, it is imperative that you alert cruise company officials before boarding. Your goal is to make a record detailing how you were hurt while still on shore.
Gather Evidence at the Scene
Collecting proof is critical, but keep in mind how information for supporting your claim is fleeting. The best evidence will only be available for a short time before other travelers interfere with the scene, and you might be heading out to sea shortly after an accident at the terminal.
Do NOT Delay in Reaching Out to an Attorney
The statute of limitations for personal injury cases is four years, but application of the law depends upon where you are in proximity to land. Under certain circumstances, you may be required to file a claim within a shorter time – potentially within 60 to 120 days. Failure to take prompt action might prevent you from recovering compensation.
Contact a Cruise Line Accidents Attorney ASAP
These To-Dos are critical for ensuring you receive fair compensation for your losses after a cruise port accident, but you are not alone in completing them when you have experienced legal representation. Our team at Gerson & Schwartz, PA has a specific focus on cruise accidents, so we are prepared to assist with all essential tasks. Please contact our offices in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or West Palm Beach, FL today to set up a free consultation and help with your claim.