Fort Lauderdale Royal Caribbean Injury Lawyer

Cowen Edwards represents injury victims on all Fort Lauderdale cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean. While Royal Caribbean is one of the most popular and well-known cruise lines, accidents and injuries can still happen. If you or someone you know has been injured on a Royal Caribbean cruise, contact us today for a free consultation to talk about your legal options.

When Do You Need a Lawyer?

A Royal Caribbean cruise is usually a relaxing experience, but accidents can happen. Whether you need a lawyer depends on your situation. For minor injuries, you may not need legal help. However, if the cruise line’s negligence caused serious harm, having a lawyer is important. We can:

  • Explain your rights
  • Investigate the accident
  • Research similar cases
  • Talk to witnesses
  • Review the ship’s policies
  • Negotiate with their insurance companies for a fair settlement

 

Our goal is to make the legal process easier for you, so you can focus on healing. We work on a contingency-fee basis, meaning you don’t pay upfront. Once you decide to take legal action, we’ll be there to guide you. That said, there’s a few things you’re going to need to do right after the accident itself.

What Should You Do If You Get Hurt on a Royal Caribbean Cruise?

Booking a spot on a Royal Caribbean cruise is all about relaxation and adventure, not worrying about getting hurt. That said, given all the different risks that you’ll encounter, it’s important to be prepared if you find yourself injured. Here’s what to do if something like that happens:

  • Report the accident to the crew – Tell a crew member or management immediately and make sure they document the accident in an official report. Also, request medical attention until you can see a doctor or get to a hospital.
  • Document the accident on your own – Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including any potential safety hazards. Be sure to document your injuries as well.
  • Talk to any witnesses – Speak to anyone who saw the accident, especially fellow passengers. Independent witnesses can provide helpful testimony for your claim.
  • Preserve any evidence you get – Keep items like damaged clothing, belongings, or faulty equipment as evidence. Don’t repair or replace anything until it’s documented. Also, save all communication related to the accident, including emails and calls with the cruise line and insurance reps.
  • Be careful with statements – Be careful with what you say to staff or insurance reps. Stick to the facts and avoid admitting any fault for the accident.

Getting injured on a cruise is always scary, but taking these steps can help protect your health and create a strong foundation for your potential claim.

What Legal Options Do You Have After Being Injured on a Royal Caribbean Cruise?

When it comes to accidents on a Royal Caribbean cruise, the process is generally the same as other injury cases, with some unique considerations. If someone else’s negligence caused your injuries, you can file an insurance claim or a lawsuit to recover damages.

  • Insurance claim – Royal Caribbean, like most cruise lines, carries liability insurance. You can file a claim against them or another party responsible for your injuries. However, be aware that insurance companies may offer low settlements, so it’s important to have legal support there to stand up for you.
  • Lawsuit – You may choose to file a personal injury lawsuit against Royal Caribbean or anyone else responsible for your injuries. While lawsuits require more time and effort, our team will handle most of the work, so you can focus on recovering.

 

Whether you decide to file an insurance claim or lawsuit (or both), the goal is to get financial support for your:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Property damage (if applicable)
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Loss of quality of life
  • Wrongful death expenses (if applicable)
  • Punitive damages (in cases of intentional or reckless negligence)

Acting quickly is crucial, as Florida law requires that injury claims be filed within two years of the incident. Not only does this make it easier to tie your injuries to the actual accident, it’s also easier to gather evidence and even figure out who will pay for your damages.

Who Pays For Damages After an Accident on a Royal Caribbean Cruise?

One of the most complicated aspects of cruise ship accidents is determining who is legally responsible for the injury. This is known as liability, and it can vary depending on the situation.

The location of the accident plays a big role in determining liability. If the injury occurred in port in Fort Lauderdale, Florida law will apply. If it happened in international waters or another country, different laws might apply.

That said, Royal Caribbean, like all cruise lines, is held to a higher standard of safety because cruise ships are considered “common carriers.” They are legally required to ensure the safety of passengers.

Liability may not only fall on the corporation that owns Royal Caribbean but also on:

  • The ship’s crew
  • Port authorities
  • Shops, restaurants, or bars within the terminal
  • Manufacturers of defective equipment
  • Security personnel
  • Other passengers

Given the wide variety of scenarios, determining who is at fault can be complicated. That’s why it’s important to understand how accidents happen and what injuries could result.

What Injuries Could Happen to You on a Royal Caribbean Cruise?

Royal Caribbean cruises are inherently risky, despite being designed for your comfort and fun. While the open sea has its dangers, accidents can happen in many different ways–especially when negligence is involved. Most of the time though, you’re looking at the following injuries when there’s an accident on a cruise:

  • Drowning – Falls overboard if railings are too low or decks are slippery can lead to drowning or near-drowning. Drowning can also happen in pools if there aren’t lifeguards or proper safety rules.
  • Broken Bones – Slipping on wet floors, tripping on stairs, or bumping into things during rough seas can cause broken bones or fractures.
  • Torn ligaments – Quick ship movements, slippery decks, or uneven floors can make you fall or twist something, leading to sprains or tears.
  • Breathing problems – Poor air quality, mold, or exposure to chemical fumes onboard can make it hard to breathe.
  • Cuts and bruises – Sharp edges, broken glass, or bumping into things during crowded or unstable conditions can leave you with cuts or bruises.
  • Burns – Hot coffee, tea, or food can burn you if it’s served carelessly. You might also get burned touching hot surfaces around the ship.
  • Head Injuries – You can hit your head if you fall on a slippery floor or get struck by something falling, like luggage or loose equipment. 
  • Illnesses – Food poisoning or contaminated water onboard can make you sick. Unsanitary conditions can spread illnesses quickly.
  • Excursion injuries – Activities like zip-lining, snorkeling, or hiking during shore trips can lead to accidents, especially if safety isn’t a priority.

Whatever the injury, make sure to prioritize your health and safety by getting help and reporting things to the crew. Once that’s taken care of, contact us for legal guidance and support.

Free Consultations For Injury Victims From Accidents on Royal Caribbean Cruises in Fort Lauderdale

Injuries on a Royal Caribbean cruise might not be totally unexpected, but when they happen, our experienced cruise accident lawyers at Cowen Edwards are here to help. We’ll guide you through your legal options and make sure you get the financial support you need to recover. Contact us today for a free consultation.