The last thing you want ruining your cruise vacation is an injury of any kind, but data indicates that the risks of head trauma could follow you on board. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are more than 223,000 hospitalizations for traumatic brain injury (TBI) every year. Plus, more than 60,600 people are killed because of serious head injuries annually, at a rate of around 165 per day. When you consider the fact that up to 9 million people board cruises out of Florida yearly, you can see that you are not entirely safe even while on vacation.
If you or a loved one sustained TBI or other head injuries in a cruise, you may be eligible for compensation due to negligence by the operator. A Miami cruise ship accident lawyer can assist with your remedies, but there are a few unique concerns to note.
TBI Risks and Cruise Activities
There is an enormous array of excursions, adventures, and activities available during a cruise vacation, both onboard and onshore. Thrill-seekers enjoy the rock-climbing wall, ziplining, hiking, tandem skydiving, and many other escapades. Guests of all ages can ride go-karts, roller coasters, bumper cars, and ropes courses. Despite safety features, there is the potential for injury-causing accidents.
Water Features Aboard Cruise Ships
Among the most attractive highlights of a cruise vacation are the water-based activities and amenities. The CDC reports that the number one cause of TBI is falls and, where there is water, there will be slick surfaces. Areas around pools, fountains, hot tubs, and stairs can be treacherous. Plus, many water activities and adventures are the source of head injuries, such as:
- Flowrider and wave pools, which simulate surfing;
- Water slides and parks;
- Parasailing, water skiing, and riding wave runners;
- Sailing dinghies and Hobie cats; and,
- Many more.
Cruise Ships Lack Medical Resources for TBI
Regardless of the risks involved with certain cruise activities, these vessels are also ill-equipped to handle a moderate to severe TBI. They lack some of the imaging equipment that health care providers rely on for diagnosing serious head injuries, and the onboard physicians typically focus on primary care. The closest neurologist or neurosurgeon may be an airlift away.
Some TBI Symptoms are Delayed
The effects of head injuries may not appear for several hours or even days after the trauma. Unfortunately, most passengers will not slow down their vacation to allow their brain to rest, and many will reinjure or worsen a TBI. It is critical to seek medical treatment if you experience:
- Headaches;
- Memory loss;
- Nausea and/or vomiting;
- Dizziness; or,
- Mood swings.
Our Miami Cruise Ship Accidents Attorneys are Ready to Provide Legal Support
TBIs vary in severity, but these injuries can be life-threatening or lead to long-term medical consequences. As such, it is crucial to seek all available remedies and get the compensation you deserve for your losses. For additional details, please contact Gerson & Schwartz, PA to schedule a free consultation at our offices in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or West Palm Beach, FL.