Port Miami is the busiest cruise port in the world. While most travelers enjoy their vacations without issue, many passengers suffer serious injuries while at sea. These incidents can turn a dream trip into a traumatic and expensive ordeal.
If you or a loved one were injured on a cruise ship that departed from or returned to Miami, you may be entitled to compensation. Cruise ship injury cases are different from other personal injury claims. They are governed by maritime law and often require legal action within a very short window of time. The attorneys at Dolan Dobrinsky Rosenblum Bluestein, LLP understand these complexities and are ready to help.
Common Cruise Ship Injuries
Cruise ships operate like floating cities—and accidents can happen anywhere on board. Some of the most common types of cruise ship injuries include:
- Slip and falls on wet decks, stairs, or poorly maintained areas
- Food poisoning or illness caused by contaminated food or water
- Physical or sexual assault by crew members or other passengers
- Medical malpractice by onboard doctors or nurses
- Injuries during cruise-sponsored excursions
- Drowning or near-drowning in pools or hot tubs
- Stairway falls due to poor lighting or missing handrails
These injuries range from minor to catastrophic and can result in permanent disability or even death.
Why Cruise Ship Injury Cases Are Different
Cruise ship injury claims are governed by federal maritime law, not state law. This means:
- Most cruise lines include terms on the passenger ticket that limit your ability to sue and shorten the filing deadline to one year from the date of the injury.
- Some cruise lines require written notice of the injury within six months.
- Most claims must be filed in federal court in Miami, regardless of where the incident occurred.
Because of these restrictions, it’s important to act quickly. Waiting too long may result in losing your right to recover compensation.
Holding Cruise Lines Accountable
Cruise companies have a legal duty to protect their passengers from harm. That includes keeping walkways safe, properly training their staff, hiring qualified medical personnel, and ensuring that excursions are safe. When they fail in these responsibilities, and someone is injured as a result, they can be held legally responsible.
At Dolan Dobrinsky Rosenblum Bluestein, LLP, we have successfully represented injury victims across Florida. Our legal team understands the tactics cruise lines use to avoid liability—and we know how to fight back.
What to Do After a Cruise Ship Injury
If you’re injured while on a cruise ship:
- Seek immediate medical attention and request documentation.
- Report the incident to cruise staff and obtain a copy of the report.
- Take photographs of the scene and your injuries.
- Gather contact information from any witnesses.
- Do not sign any waivers or settlement agreements.
- Contact a maritime injury lawyer as soon as possible.
Do not wait. The cruise line’s legal team is already working to protect its interests. You should too.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a cruise injury?
Most cruise lines require passengers to file a lawsuit within one year of the injury and may require notice within six months. Check the fine print on your cruise ticket.
Can I sue the cruise line if I was injured during an excursion?
Yes, in many cases. If the cruise line arranged, endorsed, or profited from the excursion, they may still be held liable even if the excursion was operated by a third party.
What if I signed a waiver on board?
Waivers are often designed to discourage passengers from suing. That does not mean they are legally enforceable. Let an experienced attorney review any documents you signed.
Call for a Free Consultation
If you were injured on a cruise ship in or near Miami, you don’t have to navigate the legal process alone. The attorneys at Dolan Dobrinsky Rosenblum Bluestein, LLP have the experience and resources to take on powerful cruise lines and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call 305-371-2692 or schedule your free consultation. We’re ready to listen, evaluate your case, and help you move forward.