Category: <span>CRUISE SHIP ACCIDENTS</span>

We live in an era of instant information. With a simple click we can instantly find a recipe for apple pie or learn Babe Ruth’s lifetime batting average. (It was .342)
In certain instances, like finding information about the cruise ship business, it is difficult to obtain accurate data. The global nature of their ownership and the fact that they operate in international waters makes it difficult.

The Law Firm of Lazarus and Lazarus has long been the leading legal resource in Florida for people who suffer injuries or loss due to negligence, or are victims of crimes committed aboard a cruise ship. Attorneys at Lazarus and Lazarus are experts in maritime & international law and have the experience to protect the rights of victims and seek compensation for damages in this complex legal arena.

Everyone knows the best medicine is preventive medicine, and that concept of prevention should pertain to crime as well. The website crimedoctor.com has prepared a common sense guide to Cruise Ship Security, and the main topics include:

• Beware of Your Luggage • Cabin Security • Stay in Public Areas • Have a Family Security Plan • Laws May Not Protect You

This is an excellent reference to read and follow if you are going on a cruise – the full text is here. Crime Doctor

Crime statistics for cruise ships are gathered by our own Coast Guard, and are as accurate as possible.

The Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act (CVSSA) of 2010 prescribes security and safety requirements for most cruise ships that embark and disembark in the United States. The Act mandates that reports of criminal activity be reported to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Per the Act, the U.S. Coast Guard is responsible for posting via internet portal cruise line reporting statistics provided by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

U.S. Coast Guard crime reports are available here. US Coast Guard

Five sexual assault cases are quite disturbing, and note that only thefts over $10,000 are reported, so it seems reasonable to assume that many small thefts occur. Vigilance and common sense apply when preventing theft of personal property.

Overall, cruise ships are great places to take a vacation and we never intend to frighten people away from enjoying trips at sea. We are concerned about traveler safety, and this is why we are proud to be a resource for information that will keep passengers safe. Cruise ship owners and operators must make every effort to insure their vessels are safe.

A tragic near-drowning incident this past weekend aboard a Royal Caribbean cruise ship has left a 4-year-old boy in critical condition at a Fort Lauderdale, Florida hospital. While the event is still being investigated, it is important to note that most cruise ships do not have lifeguards on duty and that personal safety on a cruise ship is not guaranteed.

Unfortunately, this tragedy follows other drowning and near-drowning incidents which have occurred on cruise ships in recent years.

News reports are @ the Sun Sentinel and Miami Herald.

People on vacation at sea are understandably relaxed and looking forward to having fun. It is reasonable and proper for passengers to assume that a large cruise liner owned by a multi-billion-dollar corporation would place passenger safety above everything else, but that is not always the case. Media reports concerning accidents, crimes committed by passengers and crew, medical malpractice by ship medical staff, food poisoning, and illnesses caused by germs & viruses aboard cruise ships are common.

Forbes magazine reported in April, 2014 on 8 separate virus outbreaks aboard cruise ships in just 3 months. Market Watch published a list of “10 Things Cruise Lines Won’t Tell You” that may interest future cruise passengers. While we do not intend to frighten people who are considering a trip on a cruise ship, we are concerned about passenger rights and the major cruise line corporation’s commitment to and responsibility for safety.

Laws governing responsibility for incidents that occur at sea are complex and ever-changing, so there are not many lawyers who are experts in this area. International law, maritime law, U.S. laws, and local laws can combine to create a hodgepodge of different jurisdictions that would confuse almost anyone. The Law Firm of Lazarus and Lazarus has reserved and maintains a special part of their practice to represent and protect the rights of victims who suffer injury, harm, or death aboard cruise ships.

Passengers have a reasonable expectation to be safe when traveling on cruise ships. If you or someone you know has been injured or harmed in any way while on a cruise, it is important to understand that victims have rights. The attorneys at Lazarus and Lazarus have been handling these cases for many years, and they are available to listen to your story and take appropriate action when you contact them at 954-356-0006.

Find a nice spot along the beach in Fort Lauderdale on a Sunday afternoon and watch the cruise ships stream out of Port Everglades, headed out for fun times at sea for thousands of happy, excited vacationers.

In 2013 the port handled over 3.5 million cruise passengers, and the vast majority had safe, successful trips. Many travelers, however, experienced illnesses, injuries, and some were victims of crime-at-sea.

The Law Offices of Lazarus and Lazarus represents injured clients and their families throughout the state of Florida, and they have gained a solid reputation for their expertise in the area of cruise ship negligence and liability.

USA Today recently published a guide to several areas of concern aboard cruise ships where passengers should remain vigilant:

Illness – Germs can spread quickly in any confined area, and on a cruise ship carrying over 2,000 passengers, it can be difficult to contain an outbreak. The Norwalk virus is a highly contagious gastrointestinal disease that has become synonymous with cruise ships, although it can travel through schools and other facilities as well. Sea sickness, colds, flu and food poisoning are also common threats.

Going Overboard – Although falls from cruise ships are rare, they do occasionally occur. Always remember that you are on a moving vessel, and the waves could swell unexpectedly. Stay well back from the guard rails, particularly in stormy conditions. Use particular caution when you have been drinking, which can throw off your balance. Never climb on the railings or allow your children to do the same.

Shipboard Crime – Modern cruise ships are effectively floating cities, providing for the needs of thousands of passengers and crew. While most people on board are trustworthy and good-hearted, like any city, a small percentage of people may have negative intentions. Just because you are on a cruise is no reason to let down your personal guard. Keep an eye on your drinks and replace them if left unattended. Avoid flashing large wads of cash. Never agree to go a private area with someone you have just met. If you carry a purse, keep it close to your body at all times. Full story @ USAToday.com
If you feel you have been injured or suffered some other loss or damage on a cruise ship as the result of someone else’s negligence, the advice and guidance of a qualified attorney is crucial to protect your rights. Attorneys at the Law Offices of Lazarus and Lazarus are eminently qualified to discuss and investigate your case. Call 954-356-0006 to schedule an appointment.

Edited by Jalaize Kukler

The United States Coast Guard has called off the search for an unidentified Canadian woman who is believed to have fallen overboard while traveling on a Florida cruise ship. A 47-year-old passenger on the Bahamas Celebration went missing while the ship traveled from Freeport, Bahamas to the Port of Palm Beach. The Coast Guard searched about 19,000 square kilometers of sea using at least four of the organization’s cutters and two of its aircraft. Bahamas air and sea rescue crews also assisted in the search.

According to Celebration Cruise Lines president Charles Kinnear, the woman was reported missing as the Florida-based cruise ship returned to the Port of Palm Beach on Wednesday morning. The woman’s boyfriend, also unidentified, claims he last saw her near a gift shop outside of the couple’s cabin around one in the morning. He said he realized she was missing after he awoke the next morning to find she never returned to their cabin. After he could not locate the woman, her boyfriend reported her missing.

After the Canadian woman was reported missing, cruise personnel reportedly searched the Bahamas Celebration twice before contacting the Coast Guard. By 8 am on Wednesday, the cruise ship was docked at the Port of Palm Beach. According to Kinnear, the ship would have turned around to search for the woman if personnel were alerted to her disappearance sooner. Although the woman is believed to have fallen overboard, cruise officials are hoping she somehow left the ship without detection. Upon the ship’s arrival at port, the woman’s passport was still in her cabin. The Federal Bureau of Investigation is currently looking into the woman’s disappearance.

Despite modern technology and safety measures, an individual may be unexpectedly hurt at any time on a luxury cruise vacation. If you or a loved one was injured while traveling as a passenger or crew member on a cruise ship, you may be entitled to recover compensation for your losses. An injury or wrongful death on a cruise ship may be governed by one or more state, federal, and international laws. An experienced personal injury lawyer can assist you in seeking compensation for your injury or loss.
Read more “Coast Guard Calls off Search for Canadian Woman Who Went Missing on Florida Cruise Ship”

For the second time in as many months, a Costa Cruise ship has lost power and left its passengers unexpectedly stranded. Earlier today, a fire broke out in the engine room onboard the Costa Allegra. The fire left the ship stranded in pirate infested waters operating on emergency power sources.

At least one thousand passengers and crew are awaiting rescue in the Indian Ocean about 200 miles from the Seychelles island nation. According to the cruise line, which is owned by Carnival Corporation, the fire has been extinguished and no injuries were reported. Italian Coast Guard Commander Cosimo Nicastro has stated everyone aboard the luxury cruise ship is safe and that the weather is not currently a concern.

The Seychelles Navy purportedly launched tug boats and rescue vessels to assist the Costa Allegra. Other nearby vessels, including a French fishing boat, also agreed to lend aid to the stranded cruise ship. Costa Cruises currently has crews inspecting the engine room for damage and is hopeful the ship may become operational again soon.

The Costa Allegra was en route to the Seychelles from Madagascar when the fire broke out. The month long cruise was scheduled to stop at several east African island nations before ending in Savona, Italy. Eight United States citizens are reportedly onboard the ship.

Last month, the Costa Concordia made headlines when it struck a rock formation off of the coast of Italy. The ship lost power, began taking on water, and capsized near the island of Giglio. At least 32 people were killed in the accident.

A personal injury can suddenly arise in any number of settings, including on a luxury cruise vacation. If you were hurt while either traveling as a passenger, or working as a crew member on a cruise ship, it is a good idea to consult with a skilled personal injury lawyer. Personal injury claims which occur on a cruise ship or other vessel are often subject to an assortment of federal, state, and international laws. Because of this, the time during which you may file your claim can be extremely limited and the process for recovery is often cumbersome. If you were hurt in a cruise ship accident, an experienced personal injury advocate can assist you in seeking the compensation your injuries merit.
Read more “More Trouble for Costa Cruise Lines, May Affect Florida Cruise Industry”

Homestead, Florida residents Luis Hernandez and his wife Karen Camacho were aboard the Costa Concordia for their “second honeymoon” when the cruise ship struck a rock formation and began taking on water off of the coast of Italy earlier this month. The ship was carrying approximately 4,000 people from across the globe when it tipped onto its side near Giglio Island. Costa Crociere, a unit of the Carnival Corporation, operated the Costa Concordia. The company has placed blame for the disaster squarely on the ship’s captain, Francesco Schettino. The ship was reportedly sailing off course and too close to the rocky Italian shoreline when it was damaged.

The Florida couple was reportedly seated at dinner when the accident occurred. According to Camacho, she heard a loud noise before items began falling from dining tables. Soon after, the ship’s speaker system and waiters began reassuring passengers to stay calm. The Costa Concordia crew purportedly told passengers the ship was merely experiencing difficulties with its generator.

Once the boat began to list, the couple returned to their cabin for personal items before heading towards the ships lifeboats. According to Camacho, the scene outside of their cabin was chaotic. People were allegedly shoving one another and crewmembers appeared at a loss regarding what to do next. Camacho stated no one was providing directions and crewmembers were abandoning ship in lifeboats without passengers. After Henandez hopped onto a lifeboat full of crewmembers, Camacho was purportedly allowed aboard. When the lifeboat became stuck, the couple exited, ran through the dining room, and jumped into a small rescue boat that was ferrying passengers to shore. Camacho claims she injured her knee during her escape, but saw other passengers who were injured much worse during the ordeal.

Following the disaster, 17 people are confirmed dead and at least 16 individuals are still unaccounted for, including two Americans. The Carnival Corporation issued a public statement alleging the company is investigating what caused the Costa Concordia disaster and the Cruise Lines International Association issued a press release reminding the public that cruising is generally a safe means of travel. The Association also stated large scale cruise ship accidents such as this one are exceedingly rare.
Read more “Florida Couple Aboard Costa Concordia During Crash Off Italian Coast”

During this time of the year, vacationers are flocking to ports throughout South Florida to set sail on a cruise before the close of the summer. However, an investigation is underway into a recent cruise ship accident in South Florida.

According to the Sun Sentinel, the United States Coast Guard is looking into what caused an accident in Key West last week. Two Carnival cruise ships, Fantasy and Imagination, collided while docking at the Port of Key West. The crash caused minor damage to both vessels.

Personnel were being tested for drugs and alcohol, in accordance with Coast Guard protocol. So far, authorities have determined that no one was injured and that the incident did not cause any pollution or spill into the ocean.

Despite modern technology and safety measures, cruise accidents can happen at any time. Contact our offices and consult with a South Florida cruise ship accident attorney if you’ve been injured in a cruise ship accident.

Last week, an arbitrator’s ruling in favor of an employee for a cruise ship accident showed that cruise lines, many of which are based out of South Florida, may want to rethink their protocol when dealing with injured crew members.

Carnival Cruise Lines, headquartered in Miami, was ordered to pay a crew member $800,000 for an injury he suffered in 2008 while working on Carnival’s Imagination. According to the article in All Voices, Marcin Sokolowski was lifting heavy bins as part of his duties as a maitre’d. He was not given a dolly or any other back support and when he felt a pop in his back while lifting bins in June 2008, he reported his injury to the ship’s doctor. The doctor only gave him pain medication and injections.

Sokolowski was transferred to another Carnival cruise ship headed back to San Diego. That ship’s doctor administered spinal adjustments and an injection. Eventually, a doctor in Cabo San Lucas notified him that he needed surgery. However, the cruise ship personnel would not allow him to have the emergency surgery in Cabo San Lucas, which caused more delay in treatment. Sokolowski later received surgery, but due to the delay, he suffered nerve damage in his right leg and was declared permanently disabled.

This ruling is very significant for the cruise industry and South Florida cruise ship attorneys. Cruise lines must ensure that crew members are given the proper tools and safety equipment while working aboard the ship. Furthermore, cruise line medical personnel are under a duty to properly diagnose and instruct patients. Though this incident involved an employee, the delays in surgery and proper treatment could have easily occurred to an injured passenger.

If you have been the victim of a cruise ship accident, consult our office to speak with a Cruise Ship Attorney today.

Late last month, a cruise ship passenger aboard a vessel from Norwegian Cruise Line, based out of Miami, Florida, was injured and rescued after going overboard.

USA Today reported that the passenger went overboard at about 8 p.m. when the ship was making its way down the Mississippi River to its Caribbean voyage. Representatives from NCL stated that the passenger was rescued and given medical treatment, although NCL failed to identify how the passenger went overboard or the extent of his injuries.

Cruise ship accidents can occur at any time. Statistics from Cruise Junkie show that last year, a total of 19 people went overboard on cruise ships. Accidents, of course, are not just limited to falling overboard. Food poisoning, injuries from onboard activities and failure of the cruise line to follow health or safety standards can also cause serious injury.

Consult with an attorney if you have been injured in a cruise ship accident.