Cowen Edwards helps people in Fort Lauderdale when they’ve been injured on a cruise ship. If you were injured on a Ritz Carlton cruise, you’re not alone. Accidents like these can happen and may result in serious injuries. Our experienced cruise injury lawyers are here to make the legal process easier for you while you focus on recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Do You Need a Lawyer?
For as popular as a Ritz Carlton cruise is, there’s always the chance that an accident can happen and you’ll get hurt. It’s true that you’ll probably sign a waiver in order to get a ticket, but the reality is that you have certain options when you’re injured aboard one of these cruises. Whether or not you need a lawyer, though, depends on the situation.
If your injuries are minor, you probably don’t need one, but given that there’s a wide range of potentially serious injuries coupled with the fact that it’s likely going to be hard to figure out who’s at-fault, getting a lawyer can really help.
Here’s what our team can do:
- Explain your options and rights
- Help you collect evidence and investigate what happened
- Negotiate with the cruise line’s insurance company for a fair settlement out of court
- File a lawsuit, if need be
Every cruise accident is unique, and the claims process can be slow and challenging, especially against a large company like Ritz Carlton. However, with our experienced lawyers, we’ll keep your claim strong and work to get you the best possible outcome.
Who is Responsible for an Accident on a Ritz Carlton Cruise?
When an accident happens on a Ritz Carlton cruise, figuring out who’s responsible depends on the situation–and its rarely straightforward even though the cruise line has the overriding responsibility to keep you safe. Generally speaking, though, figuring out responsibility involves showing:
- Ritz Carlton is responsible for keeping passengers safe, and if they fail to do so–whether through negligence, unsafe conditions, or not following safety rules–you may be able to hold them accountable for any harm or injuries you suffer as a result.
So, while Ritz Carlton is going to be largely responsible if you’re hurt during one of their cruises, other people or groups can share some liability, like:
- Other passengers
- Food suppliers or staff
- Crew members
- Third-party security or contractors
- Manufacturers or providers of faulty equipment
Ritz Carlton cruises are subject to maritime law, which is similar to Florida’s negligence laws, and the cruise line must prioritize passenger safety. Florida’s comparative negligence rule means your damages could be reduced if you share some fault. For example, if you’re found 10% responsible, your settlement would be lowered by 10%. All of this adds up to challenges for your claim, but it’s still about getting what you’re owed for your injuries.
What Damages Can You Get in a Claim If You’re Hurt on a Ritz Carlton Cruise?
You obviously don’t expect to get injured when you book a trip on a Ritz Carlton cruise, and while it’s a difficult situation, you do have the option of filing an injury claim once you’re able to establish negligence. No matter who’s ultimately responsible, you can either file an insurance claim out of court or a lawsuit to recover “damages.”
Damages are based on your specific losses but generally include things like:
- Medical expenses – This covers your medical treatment, medications, and ongoing care.
- Lost income – This covers any income you’ve missed out on due to your injuries, including future earnings if you are disabled.
- Property damage – This covers repair or replacement costs for your personal belongings like phones, luggage, or clothing.
Pain and suffering – This covers costs relating to your physical and mental pain caused by your injuries.
- Emotional distress – This provides financial support relating to your emotional or psychological struggles like anxiety or depression caused by the accident.
- Reduced quality of life – This covers costs for the loss of activities, hobbies, or time with loved ones due to your injuries.
- Wrongful death expenses – If a loved one dies due to the accident, this covers funeral costs and related expenses.
Each case is unique, so the damages you receive will depend on your specific situation. Be sure to build a strong case and file your claim within two years of the accident to be eligible for financial support.
What Can You Do to Build a Strong Claim After Getting Injured on a Ritz Carlton Cruise?
While it’s hard to imagine getting hurt on a Ritz Carlton cruise, accidents can happen. If you or someone you’re with gets injured, it’s important to take these steps to protect your claim:
- Report your injury – Immediately report the accident and seek medical care. Cruise ships have on-board first aid stations, but make sure your injuries are taken care of and keep all medical records. This lets the crew and management know about the situation, and should prompt them to fix it.
- Document the accident – If possible, take pictures of the accident scene, your injuries, and any hazards involved. Keep any other evidence you collect.
- Talk to any witnesses – Get the contact details of anyone who witnessed the accident, as their testimony can support your case.
- Be careful with statements – When speaking with ship management or insurance reps, stick to the facts and avoid admitting fault.
Your health is the priority, but taking these steps will help lay the groundwork for a strong claim. But at the same time, the more hurt you are, the harder it will be to take these steps.
What Kinds of Injuries Can Happen to You on a Ritz Carlton Cruise?
Accidents are a risk on any cruise, especially when negligence is involved. While injuries vary depending on what actually happens, here are some common ways you could get hurt:
- Falling overboard – Slippery pool decks or poorly supervised areas can lead to drowning or near-drowning.
- Broken bones – Tripping on uneven floors, wet surfaces, or sudden ship movements can cause fractures.
- Torn ligaments – Sudden ship motion or slips on wet decks can cause sprains or strains.
- Respiratory issues – Poor ventilation or exposure to chemicals or mold can affect breathing.
- Cuts and bruises – Sharp edges, broken glass, or crowded spaces can result in minor injuries.
- Burns – Hot beverages, scalding food, or poorly marked hot surfaces can cause burns.
- Head injuries – Falling objects or slips during rough seas can lead to head trauma.
- Illnesses – Food poisoning or contaminated water can lead to illness.
- Shore activity injuries – Dangerous shore excursions, like zip-lining or walking on uneven terrain, can cause injuries.
While no one wants to be hurt on a cruise, accidents like these can happen. If you’re injured, you can still file a claim and recover damages. Our team will be there to help you get the most of out of the claims process.
Contact Cowen Edwards After an Injury on a Ritz Carlton Cruise in Fort Lauderdale
Filing a claim for a cruise injury can be complicated, whether that happens on a Ritz Carlton cruise or any other cruise line. No matter what your situation is, our experienced cruise accident lawyers at Cowen Edwards will help you through the process, figure out who’s responsible, gather evidence, and work toward getting the financial support you need for recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation.