Cruise ship staff and passengers alike are, unfortunately, susceptible to injury. That said, whether you were harmed as a cruise ship worker or a passenger on vacation, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact a skilled Snohomish County cruise ship injury lawyer from Amy C Brown Law, PLLC to schedule your free consultation with our firm today.
Cruise Ship Injury Lawyer | Representing Workers & Passengers in Washington State
For years, Amy C Brown Law, PLLC has been a trusted legal resource for those who’ve sustained maritime injuries in Washington and Alaska. If you’ve sustained an injury on a cruise ship in any capacity, please don’t hesitate to speak with a competent Snohomish County maritime injury lawyer from our firm for help.
Injured Parties We Represent
Amy C Brown, PLLC represents anyone who has sustained an injury on a cruise ship, whether you’re a worker or a passenger harmed due to dangerous cruise ship conditions. Parties we represent include, but are not limited to:
- Deck Crew: Including captains, deckhands, and mates responsible for navigating and maintaining the cruise ship.
- Engine Room Staff: Engineers, mechanics, and electricians who ensure the operational integrity of the vessel.
- Hospitality and Service Crew: This group encompasses chefs, bartenders, housekeepers, and waitstaff who cater to passengers’ needs.
- Entertainment Personnel: Performers, DJs, and activity coordinators who provide entertainment and leisure activities.
- Security Staff: Personnel responsible for maintaining safety and security aboard the ship.
- Medical Team: Doctors, nurses, and healthcare professionals providing medical services to crew and passengers.
- Passengers: Vacationers and guests who are aboard the cruise ship for leisure and travel.
Common Injuries Sustained On Cruise Ships
People, unfortunately, can sustain a wide range of injuries on cruise ships, whether as workers or passengers. Some of the most common that we see are as follows:
- Slip and Fall Accidents: Often caused by wet or uneven surfaces on decks or in dining areas.
- Food Poisoning: Due to contaminated or improperly handled food.
- Physical Assaults: Including altercations between passengers or with crew members.
- Injuries from Onboard Activities: Such as swimming pool accidents or sports-related injuries.
- Overexertion Injuries: Often occurring during emergency drills or in the handling of heavy equipment.
- Burns: From kitchen accidents or electrical malfunctions.
- Falling Overboard: Rare but serious incidents leading to severe injuries or fatalities.
- Equipment-Related Injuries: Due to malfunctioning or improperly used machinery.
- Exposure to Harmful Substances: Chemical leaks or exposure to hazardous materials.
- Injuries During Shore Excursions: Accidents occurring while participating in off-ship activities.
What to Do if You Sustain a Cruise Ship Injury
If you’re injured on a cruise ship, you should try to take the following steps, if you can:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Prioritize your health and safety by getting prompt medical care.
- Report the Injury: Notify the ship’s authorities immediately about the incident.
- Document Everything: Take photos of the injury and the scene, and keep a record of medical treatments received.
- Gather Witness Information: If there were any witnesses, collect their contact information.
- Do Not Sign Any Documents: Avoid signing any waivers or agreements from the cruise line before consulting a lawyer.
- Preserve Evidence: Keep any relevant items, like clothing or personal belongings, that might be used as evidence.
- Contact a Cruise Ship Injury Lawyer: Seek legal advice to understand your rights and options for compensation.
Can I Sue for Compensation if I’m Injured On a Cruise Ship?
If you’re injured on a cruise ship, your right to compensation is protected under the law.
- The Jones Act: This federal law allows injured maritime workers to seek compensation for injuries caused by negligence on the part of their employers or coworkers.
- The Death on the High Seas Act (DOHSA): This law permits family members to pursue compensation for wrongful death occurring more than three nautical miles from the U.S. shore.
- Maritime Doctrine of Unseaworthiness: Under this doctrine, ship owners are required to ensure their vessels are safe. Failure to do so can lead to liability for injuries sustained.
- The Passenger Vessel Services Act: This act governs the safety and legal rights of passengers aboard cruise ships.
- General Maritime Law: Provides protection for cruise ship passengers in case of injury due to negligence or unsafe conditions on the ship.
- Washington State Laws: Washington’s laws may also apply, particularly for incidents occurring in or near its ports.
Contact a Cruise Ship Injury Lawyer Today
Don’t face a cruise ship injury on your own. Contact a dedicated Snohomish County cruise ship injury lawyer from Amy C Brown for a free initial consultation today.