There are a number of ways people get hurt on cruise ships. Below is a list of the most common ways.
SLIPPING ON THE DECK
Slipping on a cruise deck can be caused by spilled drinks, weather or other circumstances. Whatever the cause, cruise ship staff are responsible for cleaning up the mess—if they don’t and you slip and injure yourself, they may be considered negligent. However, proving that the cruise ship was liable for your injuries due to slipping on a wet floor requires investigation and compiling evidence to make a solid claim.
For a free legal consultation, call 206-558-5555
TRIPPING OVER A THRESHOLD
Most cruise ships have thresholds located in their doorways which are required by international shipping laws so as to maintain a watertight ship. Because thresholds are hazardous, failure to notify passengers of their placement can be considered to be negligence. Cruise ships must adhere highly visible signs, typically at eye-level on the door or wall, that warn passengers of thresholds. If you sustained an injury due to tripping over a threshold for which there was no warning, you may have a good personal injury case.
FALLING DOWN A STAIRCASE
Falling down a staircase, and sometimes falling overboard, can be caused by defective handrails. According to the Cruise Safety Act of 2010, all cruise ships must have handrails that extend, at a minimum, 42 inches above the deck. Handrails that do not meet these specifications may be considered defective. Subsequently, cruise ship companies may be found to be negligent in injuries caused by such handrails.
Falling down a staircase can also be caused by slippery steps, nefarious objects on the steps, poorly designed steps, and steps that are improperly sized (height is too little or too much.
Call or text 206-558-5555 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
