Cruise Ship Accident Lawyer Blog
It is unfortunate that criminal activity can follow you on a dream cruise vacation, but the threat of assault is real. If you suffered injuries in an attack, you should realize that your rights extend beyond the criminal system. Aside from punishment for the offender, victims can seek monetary damages for their losses.
A Miami cruise ship accident lawyer can assist with pursuing your remedies, which fall under maritime law. However, it is helpful to know the compensation that may be available for victims of assault.
Economic Damages: Recovering Medical Expenses
Victims of cruise ship assault often face significant financial losses, which are legally termed economic damages. These are the measurable costs directly tied to the incident, such as:
- Emergency room visits
- Surgery
- Prescription medications
- Ongoing physical therapy
You may also qualify to recover medical expenses related to mental health treatment, such as trauma counseling and psychiatric care. If you missed work because of your injuries, you may also recover lost wages and future earning capacity.
Compensation for Pain, Suffering, and Emotional Distress
Assault victims on cruise ships may also pursue non-economic damages, which are personal and subjective to the victim. The physical pain, emotional trauma, anxiety, PTSD, and related consequences may not have a fixed price tag, but they still represent lost quality of life. The amount of non-economic damages depends on the severity and duration of your suffering. Relevant factors include the extent to which the assault has disrupted daily life, relationships, and mental well-being.
Understanding the Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act (CVSSA)
The Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act (CVSSA) was enacted to protect passengers from onboard crimes, including sexual assault. Under this federal law, cruise lines must report crimes to the FBI, maintain video surveillance in key areas, and provide victims with access to medical personnel and rape kits. The CVSSA also requires ships to preserve evidence after an assault is reported.
If a cruise line failed to comply with CVSSA requirements, that violation can serve as direct evidence of negligence in your legal claim.
Important Deadlines in Cruise Ship Injury Claims
Time is a critical factor in cruise ship assault cases. Most cruise lines include a one-year statute of limitations in their passenger ticket contracts, which is far shorter than the standard personal injury deadline. Additionally, many ticket contracts require written notice of a claim within six months of the incident. Missing either deadline could permanently bar your right to compensation. Victims must also consider which jurisdiction applies, as cruise ships operate under complex maritime laws.
Get in Touch with Our Miami Cruise Ship Assault Attorneys Today
Because time is a critical factor in these cases, it is imperative to act promptly after a cruise ship assault. Seeking medical treatment and reporting the incident are essential first steps, and securing experienced legal representation should be your next priority.
Our attorneys at Gerson & Schwartz, PA, are ready to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve after a horrific attack. Please call (305) 371-6000 to schedule a free consultation at our offices in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or West Palm Beach, FL We can discuss legal remedies after learning more about your story.