One thing that social media and instant communications has brought about is increased attention to problems aboard cruise ships. People are less likely to remain silent when they are injured on a cruise or go on a cruise where there are major problems with the ship. At the Maus Law Firm, we’re a cruise line accident law firm that looks out for cruise passengers’ rights.
Systematic Cruise Incident Data Isn’t Collected
Cruise lines may be based in the US, but they are typically incorporated and registered overseas, and they are only obligated to report incidents to the country where the ship is registered. Because cruise ships operate largely outside of US law enforcement, there is no systematic collection of information about fires, groundings, collisions, and evacuations. But these frightening incidents do occur.
Fires on Cruise Ships Not as Rare as Many Believe
From 1990 to 2011, there were around 80 fires onboard cruise ships. Until 2006 there were usually three or four fires per year, but that number rose to seven or eight per year since 2006. This increase is most likely due to strong growth of the cruise industry. A fire was what caused the problems on the Carnival Triumph in February 2013. More than one cruise line accident law firm has worked diligently for justice for affected Triumph passengers.
Bringing Wrongdoers to Justice Is Lengthy and Complicated
The Costa Concordia shipwreck happened in early 2012, yet it wasn’t until the end of May 2013 that an Italian judge ruled that the ship’s captain would be tried. Francesco Schettino, Costa Concordia Captain, is to be tried for manslaughter charges related to the 32 passengers who died on the cruise, as well as for dereliction of duty.
Be Prepared Before Going on Your Next Cruise
Before going on a cruise, try to read the terms and conditions on your tickets. They’re complex, but you should understand what you’re agreeing to. If you’re injured while on your cruise, document the situation thoroughly, with photos if possible, and contact a cruise accident attorney at your first opportunity. A cruise accident attorney at the Maus Law Firm will be happy to discuss your case and your options.