Cruises are by definition a time to relax and enjoy yourself on the high seas. However, accidents do happen and when they happen to you, your enjoyment of the cruise can sink faster than the Titanic. Whether they happen on deck or in a foreign port, you need to know your rights when it comes to receiving compensation for injuries that occurred during a cruise. Hiring a cruise ship lawyer can be the first of many steps towards healing and closure.
What Do Cruise Accidents Include?
Cruise accidents include many different types of incidents that may occur on deck, or in foreign ports. Slips and falls are common. Accidents may occur on trips into foreign ports, sometimes including bus and car accidents occurring under the supervision of the cruise staff. Unfortunately, sexual harassment can also happen on board. The perpetrators may be staff members or the incident may occur under staff supervision. Diving accidents, and seaborne illness and food poisoning are also other examples of injuries suffered during cruises.
Why Should I Hire a Cruise Ship Accident Attorney?
One of the main reasons that you should hire an attorney as soon as possible after a cruise ship accident is because it is very difficult to get proper compensation and there are many laws protecting cruise line companies. Many cruise lines can only be sued in their port of origin, and unlike car accidents, lawsuits against cruise lines only have a one year statute of limitations. Cruise ship accident attorneys will also help you determine if your case is weakened if you accepted onboard compensation, such as free drinks. Sometimes cruise companies will use such situations as evidence that they have already settled things with you.
What Should I Look for in a Cruise Ship Lawyer?
The most important credential to factor in when hiring a cruise ship accident attorney is experience. At Joseph M. Maus & Associates, our experienced attorneys have experience in successfully pursuing claims against big cruise companies, and they can help you get the compensation you deserve after you are injured while on a cruise.