cruise injury attorney

Defenses Cruise Lines Use to Fight Miami Cruise Accident Claims

September 20, 2023 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

You can probably guess that the cruise vacation industry is worth billions, but it is still staggering to review the statistics. Data on cruise industry market share and revenue trends reveals that the global cruise market was worth $7.67 billion in 2022, and the US is half that at $3.84 billion. Plus, this number is expected to grow to $18.3 billion by the end of 2030. As one of the busiest cruise ports in Florida, Miami’s cruise industry is well-positioned to pocket a large share of this growth.

Unfortunately, raking in millions of dollars does not lead Miami cruise lines to be generous when their own negligence causes injuries to passengers. To protect their profits, they will present every possible defense to avoid liability. In most cases, the defenses are weak. However, because there are some that could affect your rights, you will need help from a Miami cruise ship accident attorney. Some background is helpful.

Statute of Limitations

What Happens if My Cruise Ship Injuries Require Surgery?

July 13, 2023 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

Accidents can happen on cruise ships just like any other location, but the significant difference if you suffer serious injuries is that medical treatment is limited on a vessel. Ships sailing out of Miami and the rest of the US must comply with the standards set by the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP), which are quite basic. The vessel’s infirmary must have wheelchairs, spine immobilizing backboard, oxygen, defibrillators, and equipment to assess vital signs, among other requirements.

Clearly, a cruise ship infirmary is intended to manage minor medical emergencies. However, many accidents require major medical intervention, possibly including surgery. Depending on the injuries, the staff may or may not be able to take care of your immediate needs. It is challenging to figure out your rights and remedies, so you should contact a Miami cruise ship accident attorney in such a situation. Some background information is also helpful for understanding how these cases work.

Cruise Ship Injuries That May Require Surgery

Cruise Ship Fires Happen With Alarming Frequency in Florida

February 16, 2023 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

When you are on board a cruise out of Miami, miles from shore and surrounded by nothing but water, you might think that fire is the least of your concerns. Therefore, it is shocking to learn how frequently these accidents occur and the ways cruise lines try to minimize their own negligence. According to a Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) report on operational accidents, there were 27 fires or explosions over the 10-year study period. These incidents are preventable, yet they put thousands of passengers and crew at risk of serious injuries.

The causes of cruise ship fires vary, and operators have a duty to protect those onboard. They also have a legal obligation to mount an appropriate response, but cruise lines tend to react in ways that advance their own financial interests. You do have rights if you or a member of your group was injured in a fire or explosion, so consult with a Miami cruise ship accident lawyer about legal options. An overview is also informative.

Common Causes Behind Cruise Ship Fires and Explosions

Miami Cruise Accident Statistics May Surprise You

November 16, 2022 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

While Port Miami is a bustling cruise destination year-round, this vacation hub will be even busier as we head into the peak season for Caribbean cruising that lasts from December through April. Industry group Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) reports that 100 percent of ships are projected to be back in service, and around 30 million passengers will have embarked on cruise vacations by the end of 2022. This return to normal is welcome to the cruise lines and employees, as well as for the guests that were eager to return to sailing.

Almost 7 million cruise ship passengers travel through Port Miami every year. This figure is not surprising since around 45% of all guests on ships worldwide are visiting the Caribbean and Bahamas. It is also not a shock to learn that accidents are common with the wide range of excursions, exciting adventures, and onboard activities. Results of a survey indicate that 1 in 10 passengers reports being hurt during a cruise.

Injuries can ruin your vacation, but they can also lead to significant physical, financial, and emotional losses. You should consult with a Miami cruise ship accident attorney right away to evaluate your legal remedies, as the statistics are disturbing.

Dangers of Medical Malpractice Onboard Miami Cruise Ships

July 23, 2021 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

After coming to a grinding halt in 2020 due to COVID-19, the Florida cruise industry is expected to rebound in a massive way in 2021. Cruise Market Watch predicts that numbers will hit $23.8 billion as 13.9 million passengers book their cruise adventures, representing a 96.2% increase over the number of guests during the pandemic year. Though passengers can expect some changes onboard, one constant will remain the same: The biggest selling feature for cruise vacations is the extensive range of world-class amenities available.

However, while the water features, shore excursions, and world-class onboard entertainment are enticing, there is one amenity you hope you never encounter — the need for medical treatment because of an accident or illness. Cruise ships have an obligation to ensure passengers receive essential care, but medical malpractice on Miami cruise ships is an unfortunate reality. Negligence by onboard health care providers can exacerbate your medical condition, so understanding the risks is important.

Risks for Injured and Sick Passengers