Articles Tagged with cruise accident lawyer

Proper employee training is essential for any business, but it is even more critical for cruise lines to ensure that the crew is prepared for contingencies. Crew member training failures increase the potential for accidents; in other cases, a lack of proper training can enhance the dangers when urgent incidents arise. A Miami cruise ship accident attorney will guide you through the legal process if you were injured, and some background information is useful.

Cruise Line Crew Training Requirements Under Maritime Law 

Globally, cruise operators must follow strict safety standards set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) Convention. These regulations require crew members to complete certified training in emergency procedures, passenger safety, and first aid. Cruise lines operating out of Miami and other US ports must also comply with federal maritime statutes.

While you might be aware of your rights when injured in an accident on land, cruise ship accidents are a separate matter. Maritime law applies, so though you still have options, you need to meet distinct requirements. Of course, cruise companies hope you fail in these efforts because your claim affects their bottom line. 

A Miami cruise ship accident attorney knows these details and will handle all legal tasks to protect your rights. Meanwhile, here are the facts that cruise companies do not want you to know.

There is a One-Year Deadline Cruise Lines Hope You Miss

When the unthinkable happens, and you are injured in a cruise ship accident, many questions will flood your mind. You will certainly want to know about your legal options, and acting promptly is essential. Federal maritime law allows cruise lines to shorten the statute of limitations to just one year, and your ticket probably does contain this short deadline. 

For some victims, other questions relate to liability. There may be multiple potential parties involved in the circumstances that led to your injuries. A Miami cruise ship accident lawyer will help you identify them.

Primary Liability: Can You Sue the Cruise Line for Negligence? 

You are likely familiar with local personal injury attorneys near you at home, but these practitioners are typically not the resources you need after being injured on a cruise out of South Florida. For numerous reasons, it is advisable to consult with a Miami cruise ship accident lawyer who will pursue compensation for your losses. 

Cruise Ship Injury Claims Must Be Filed in Federal Court

One major reason a personal injury lawyer cannot handle your Miami cruise case is jurisdiction. Most cruise tickets contain forum selection clauses requiring claims to be filed in federal court. Attorneys may rarely practice in this system if they focus only on car accidents and slip-and-falls, which are filed in Florida state court. Federal procedure, motion practice, and evidentiary standards differ significantly from state court rules.

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