Cruise Ship Accidents/Incidents

What to Do (and NOT Do) if You are Injured on a Miami Cruise

February 27, 2026 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

The potential for accidents exists even in paradise on a cruise vacation, and the statistics reveal the risk to passengers. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 12 to 18 percent of all visits to onboard medical facilities are due to slips, trips, falls, and related injuries.

Fortunately, you have rights as an injured passenger, and your Miami cruise ship accident attorney will guide you through the process. However, some tips about what to do are useful.

Immediate Steps to Take at the Scene

Why Cruise Lines Deny Injury Claims After a Miami Cruise Accident

February 20, 2026 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

When your trip of a lifetime suddenly turns tragic because of a cruise ship accident, you at least gain some comfort knowing you have legal remedies. Unfortunately, injured victims typically encounter significant pushback when they attempt to enforce their rights. Miami cruise operators fall back on a variety of defenses to deny claims and protect their own bottom line.

Miami cruise ship accident lawyers are familiar with these tactics, so they develop solid strategies to challenge denials and get fair compensation for passengers. Some background is important.

Common Reasons Why Cruise Lines Deny Injury Claims

Can You Sue a Cruise Line for Shore Excursion Accidents in the Bahamas or Caribbean?

February 13, 2026 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

While modern cruises feature a wealth of fabulous amenities, many passengers are just as eager to get off the ship for exciting adventures on shore. According to Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), around 68 percent of passengers will book a shore excursion to round out their trip.

Unfortunately, accidents can happen on these tours, leading many injured passengers to wonder about their rights. A Miami cruise ship accident attorney can provide specifics about your case, but an overview should help you understand liability for shore excursions.

Can You Sue a Cruise Line for Shore Excursion Accidents?

The Hidden Cruise Ticket Contract: How Miami Cruise Operators Limit Your Right to Sue

February 6, 2026 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

For passengers looking forward to their cruise vacation in Miami, the cruise ticket represents joy, excitement, and fun for all ages. Your ticket opens the door to adventure and life-long memories, so you might not realize its legal significance: It is also a contract between you and the cruise company, dictating many aspects of your business relationship.

A key area many passengers overlook is the hidden clause in the document that is triggered if you are hurt in an accident. There are implications you might not expect, so it is critical to trust a Miami cruise ship accident lawyer for legal help. An overview covers the basics.

What Is the Hidden Cruise Ticket Contract?

Ship Doctor Negligence: Can You Sue a Cruise Line for Medical Malpractice?

January 30, 2026 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

You hope to never need medical services on your cruise vacation, but accidents happen. If you do seek care, you expect proper health care professionals to be onboard. Unfortunately, for decades, cruise operators protected themselves from liability for medical malpractice under rules established by the case of Barbetta v. SS Bermuda Star.

However, a recent shift in the legal framework now goes further to protect injured passengers. A Miami cruise ship accident lawyer can help you hold a cruise company accountable for substandard medical care, but read on for some basics.

Ship Doctor Negligence and Medical Malpractice on Cruises

Are Cruise Ships Liable for Accidents in Miami Ports and Terminals?

January 23, 2026 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

A woman’s smart thinking and quick action prevented tragedy during a recent cruise out of Miami, when she jumped off a dock into the water to save her 4-year-old daughter. According to a report in People Magazine, the child fell between the dock and the cruise ship. The pair were rescued and treated right away, but were clearly traumatized.

The incident raises serious questions about safety precautions in ports, as well as who is responsible for keeping passengers safe. A Miami cruise ship accident lawyer can explain the legal details because liability can be complicated by the presence of multiple potential parties.

When are Cruise Ships Liable for Passenger Injuries in Ports?

Injured on a Miami Cruise Ship? Five Critical Steps to Take Before You Disembark

January 16, 2026 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

A cruise ship accident can quickly turn a fun vacation into a tragedy, and it is critical to take prompt action in the aftermath. While US maritime law establishes a three-year statute of limitations, cruise contracts typically impose a much shorter deadline.

Plus, to best protect your rights, there are certain steps you need to take while still aboard. You support the efforts of your Miami cruise ship accident attorney when you follow a few important tips.

Report Your Cruise Ship Injury Right Away

Fatal Cruise Ship Injuries Ruled Homicide, Lawsuit Filed in Miami

January 15, 2026 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

A woman has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against a cruise operator after her fiancé’s death on board a ship in December 2024. According to a news report, the man was negligently served at least 33 alcoholic beverages, leading to intoxication and a drunken outburst. Crew used extreme and violent methods to detain him. These efforts led to his death, which was ultimately ruled a homicide.

Violent incidents occur frequently on cruises, and Miami cruise ship accident lawyers are essential in helping victims hold enormously profitable cruise lines accountable. Here are four things to know about the lawsuit to help you understand some basic legal issues.

Wrongful Death is a Type of Personal Injury Lawsuit

Is There Dram Shop Liability for Drunk Injuries on Miami Cruise Ships?

January 9, 2026 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

When someone is intoxicated and causes an injury, victims often ask if “dram shop” rules apply. These rules provide a legal option to pursue the establishment that provided the alcohol, as separate from the actual offender. With some exceptions, Florida law bans dram shop liability. Victims are limited to filing a claim against the drunk assailant or driver, who may not have the insurance or other resources to cover their losses.

However, is there dram shop liability for drunk injuries on Miami cruise ships? With “all-you-can-drink” packages being popular, the potential for assaults and other abusive activity soars. A Miami cruise ship accident lawyer can provide details on the law, but you can also read on for an answer to the question.

Dram Shop Liability on Miami Cruise Ships

Can I Sue for Food Poisoning on a Miami Cruise? Legal Options for Sick Passengers

December 15, 2025 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

When you have eagerly anticipated your cruise vacation, the trip can be ruined when a member of your group suffers from food-borne illness. Fortunately, yes, you can sue a cruise line for food poisoning if negligence in food handling or sanitation caused your illness. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the most common toxins onboard are Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria.

Sick passengers departing from Miami may seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering through a legal claim. Your Miami cruise ship accident lawyer will handle the details, but some background is helpful.

Common Causes of Food Poisoning on Miami Cruise Ships