Boating & Cruise Ship Accident Litigation

Justice for Passengers Injured in Cruise Ship Accidents

Our accident lawyers understand the complexities of a commercial boat or cruise ship injury claim

Recreational boating is a popular lifestyle activity in Florida. And the U.S. cruise ship industry is big business, generating nearly $38 billion in revenue annually, while enticing more than 20 million people to jump on board each year. Unfortunately, with these vast numbers, accidents and injuries are inevitable. Florida leads the country in boating accidents, and cruise ship injuries, accidents and illnesses occur with alarming frequency. Victims of cruise ship accidents must carefully select an attorney with the knowledge and resources necessary to litigate these complex claims. Familiarity with maritime and admiralty law is essential, as well as an understanding of how federal and Florida state law applies to these time-sensitive cases. Accident attorneys from Osborne, Francis & Pettis possess the experience and skill to aggressively pursue a boating or cruise ship injury claim.

Who is responsible for boating and cruise ship accident injuries?

Cruise ships and boat operators owe passengers a special duty of care as common carriers. They must exercise more than reasonable care to ensure your safety. If you are harmed while on their vessels, or participating in activities they have approved or sponsored, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries. Responsible parties include some of the following entities:

• Boat or cruise ship owner
• Cruise line or company operating the trip
• Charter company
• Ticketing agency
• Liable third-parties

Common boating and cruise ship accidents and causes

Cruise ships harbor a dizzying array of potential hazards. Common risks include:

• Slip/Trip and Falls – Due to ship maneuvers, slippery surfaces, uneven decks, and other unsafe conditions.
• Swimming pool accidents, water slide mishaps or wave pool injuries – Accidents caused by inadequate supervision, negligent design or overly slick surfaces and ladders.
• Illnesses – Arise from contaminated food, foodborne pathogens or unsanitary conditions.
• Injuries sustained during off-ship cruise line approved trips – Including sailing, diving, scuba diving, parasailing, boating injuries and other accidents.
• Injuries sustained onboard during cruise ship recreational activities – Can be serious, including the over-service of alcohol leading to accidents due to inebriated crew or passengers.
• Dock accidents and tender boat accidents – Ferrying passengers to and from the ship and port of call can result in accidents.
• Navigational errors – Resulting in collisions, capsizing and other shipwrecks.
• Physical assault/sexual assault – This can occur with passengers or crew members due to poor lighting, lax security or unauthorized cabin access.
• Medical negligence/medical malpractice
• Falling overboard
• Onboard fires and catastrophic events
• Cruise ship passenger disappearance

Though not quite as far reaching in their potential for injury, boating accidents are extremely common. The U.S. Coast Guard reported 610 deaths and 2,678 injuries resulting from 4,064 accidents in 2014. Some common accidents and causes included the following:

• Boat Collisions
• Swamping/Flooding
• Grounding
• Water Ski accident
• Drowning
• Insufficient safety training
• Boat operator negligence, including inexperience, inattention, inebriation, and improper lookout
• Speeding
• Machine Failure
• Violation of Navigation rules
• Hazardous Water/Weather
• Strong waves/wake