Cruise Ship Accident Lawyer Blog
Accidents can happen even on your dream vacation, so it is a comfort to know that you are protected by US law if you suffer injuries. A US Supreme Court case from 1959 established that cruise lines owe passengers a duty of care, and they can be held liable when their negligence causes accidents.
However, you could put your rights in jeopardy if you make critical errors. Trust a Miami cruise ship accident attorney to help you avoid pitfalls, and read on for details about the major mistakes to avoid.
Mistakes with Gathering Evidence
Many victims make the critical mistake of leaving the scene without collecting critical information that could make or break their case. You should photograph:
- Your injuries
- The hazard that caused them
- The surrounding area
Witness contact information is equally valuable and often lost forever once you disembark. Strong, well-documented evidence gives you the foundation necessary to build a powerful claim.
Failure to Report Onboard Can Harm Your Rights
One of the most damaging mistakes a victim can make is not notifying the ship’s crew about their injuries before leaving the vessel. Cruise lines require an official onboard incident report; without one, the company can argue your injury never occurred onboard.
Always request a written copy of your report before disembarking. This document becomes a critical piece of evidence that directly supports your claim and establishes a clear, time-stamped record of the incident.
Missing Deadlines for Cruise Ship Injury Claims Can Cost You
Most cruise lines enforce a strict, short deadline to file a lawsuit. This is typically outlined in the fine print of your ticket contract. Missing this deadline typically means losing your right to compensation entirely, regardless of how serious your injuries are. Additionally, many cruise lines require written notice of your claim within weeks of the incident.
Given these deadlines, quick action is essential to protecting your legal rights after being injured on a cruise. Plus, it is important that you move forward promptly to preserve valuable evidence.
Social Media Posts After a Cruise Ship Accident Can Be Used Against You
In today’s digital world, insurance adjusters and defense attorneys routinely monitor the social media accounts of accident victims. A single post can be taken out of context to undermine the severity of your injuries, such as:
- A photo
- Your check-ins
- Status updates
Even a seemingly harmless post can suggest you are less hurt than claimed. After a cruise ship accident, avoid posting anything about your activities, physical condition, or the incident itself. What you share online can be used as evidence against you.
Our Miami Cruise Ship Accident Lawyers Help Avoid Critical Errors
Mistakes after a cruise ship accident can give operators valid reasons to deny your claim, but you can avoid errors when you have experienced legal counsel on your side. The attorneys at Gerson & Schwartz, PA can also assist with gathering evidence, meeting critical deadlines, and leveraging complex maritime laws.
To schedule your free consultation, call (305) 371-6000 or go online today. We proudly serve clients from our offices in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach, FL.