Cowen Edwards represents those injured on Viking cruise lines in Florida.
We understand that even though going on a cruise can be fun, accidents can happen while you’re on the ship. If you get injured, you might need legal help to make sure you’re treated fairly. Our experienced Florida cruise accident lawyers are here to help you. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your situation.
Do You Need a Lawyer?
This depends on how serious your injuries are. A Viking cruise has a lot of potential for injuries, all of which can vary in terms of the severity. If your accident and injuries are minor, you probably don’t need to worry about taking legal action (even though you still have the right to.)
On the other hand, if your injuries are more severe, you can turn to our team of cruise line accident lawyers for help. We can:
- Explain your legal rights and options
- Investigate the cause of the accident
- Evaluate your injuries and damages
- Negotiate and communicate with Viking and their insurance company
- Make the overall process easier
Understanding these accidents is very important to the overall process. Most of the time, Viking will have you sign a liability waiver–either when you book the cruise or get on the ship–that seemingly protects them from legal action. However, when your injuries are caused by certain actions or inactions taken by Viking or someone else, you still have legal rights.
Is Viking Liable For Accidents?
Going on a Viking cruise is a unique adventure, but just like any other company, they have a duty to keep you and other passengers safe. When you’re on their ship or participating in their activities, they’re responsible for making sure you’re okay.
Legally, if they fail to do this, it’s called “liability.” If Viking or someone else’s actions lead to you getting hurt, it’s called “negligence.”
There are many ways Viking could be responsible for your injuries:
- Not keeping things safe enough
- Failing to maintain the ship or equipment properly
- Not providing enough security
- Not warning you about dangers
- Not training staff properly to handle accidents
However, under Florida law, you might also be partly responsible. This is called “comparative negligence.” It means if you’re partly at fault, your damages decrease by the same percentage.
But there’s a number of others involved in these types of accidents-usually. As such, they could share some of the liability. Typically, this will include:
- Other passengers
- The ship’s crew
- Product manufacturers
- Terminal authorities
- Other businesses on the ship
- Third party contractors, like security or maintenance
Types of Accidents
On a Viking cruise, various things can lead to accidents and injuries. Here are some common ones:
- Wet floors – Slips and falls can occur around pools, dining areas, and other wet spots.
- Rough seas – Unfavorable weather and rough sea conditions may cause passengers and crew to lose balance and sustain injuries.
- Safety concerns – Accidents may happen if safety signs, handrails, or life-saving equipment are not properly installed or maintained.
- Cruise activities – Participating in excursions or onboard activities can pose risks if not adequately supervised.
- Errors by the crew – Mistakes made by the ship’s crew, such as inadequate maintenance, can lead to accidents.
- Negligent security – Inadequate security measures may lead to theft or assaults.
- Equipment malfunctions – Accidents may occur if the ship’s equipment breaks down, although this is rare.
- Fire and electrical hazards – Improper handling of fires and electrical issues can pose significant risks onboard.
- Foodborne illnesses – Poor food handling practices can result in illness among passengers. Also, excessive drinking can lead to accidents or altercations.
What Should You Do After an Accident?
Even though a Viking cruise has potential risk, it also has policies and procedures in place in the event an accident happens. This is to protect you and other passengers, but also meant to protect the company, as well. At the same time, like any other accident, what you do in the aftermath is vital to your potential claim. So, when you get hurt on a Viking cruise, here’s what you need to do:
- Get medical help – If you’re seriously injured, head to the ship’s medical center right away.
- Tell the staff – Report your injury to the cruise staff so they can document what happened.
- Take pictures – If you can, snap photos of where the accident happened and anything relevant.
- Keep records – Keep track of all medical treatments you receive.
- Contact insurance – Let your insurance company know about the injury, and if you have travel insurance, inform them too.
- Collect evidence – Gather any evidence that supports your case, like witness statements or photos.
- Keep up with treatment – If you need follow-up care, make sure to attend your appointments.
Remember, your health comes first. Once you’re taken care of, you can start thinking of your legal options. A major part of this process is going to be what you can actually recover in a claim.
What Are My Damages?
Much like your options and potential injuries, your damages that are available in an injury claim are going to depend on what happened and how injured you are. It’s here that our team can be a huge help. Not only can we explain the process, but we can help you gather and tally records of your expenses and other losses, putting together a solid case for damages.
You actually recover damages in an injury claim, either through insurance or the legal system in a personal injury lawsuit. In these claims, you can potentially recover:
- Coverage for all medical expenses related to the accident, such as hospital bills, medications, surgeries, and necessary medical devices.
- Financial support for physical pain and suffering endured due to the accident.
- Financial considerations for lost income and potential future earnings you may have missed out on.
- Assistance for mental and emotional distress, including conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- Support for caregiving and transportation costs incurred due to the accident.
- Support for the loss of enjoyment in life or companionship.
- Help with expenses for physical therapy and mental health treatment.
- Repair or replacement costs for property damage resulting from the accident.
Again, every case involving a cruise line accident is unique, and the outcome depends on the specifics of your incident. It’s important to remain patient as the claims process can be time-consuming and complex, particularly when dealing with a large corporation like Viking. However, by partnering with our team, we’ll make sure you have what you need to get a satisfactory outcome.
Reach Out to Cowen Edwards After a Viking Cruise Line Accident in Florida
At Cowen Edwards, we firmly believe that Viking Cruise Lines should be held accountable for accidents and injuries caused by their negligence on their ships and voyages. Our team of seasoned Florida cruise accident lawyers stand with you to provide legal assistance and guidance, making sure your claim against Viking and others responsible is strong. To learn more about our process and what you can do in these situations, contact us today for a free consultation.
