Pennsylvania Cruise Ship Accident Attorneys

Over $110 Million Recovered for Injured Pennsylvanians

You booked a cruise with your spouse as a romantic getaway or a trip with your family or friends to reconnect—but what was supposed to be a relaxing getaway ended up becoming your worst nightmare. When an accident occurs on a cruise ship, you may be wondering what legal rights you have. In fact, when the accident was the result of someone else’s negligence, be it a cruise ship operator or staff person or even another passenger, you have the right to take legal action by filing a civil claim for damages.

At Fellerman & Ciarimboli Law PC, we have been representing injured individuals and the loved ones of those wrongfully killed in the state of Pennsylvania since 2000. In our decades in practice, our attorneys have successfully recovered more than $110 million for our clients. We know the law, we understand the legal process, and we have what it takes to win.

Contact our Pennsylvania cruise ship accident lawyers today for a free, confidential consultation. Call (877) 989-4878 for assistance 24/7.

Many Cruise Ship Accident Cases Fall under Maritime Law

Most cruise ship accident cases fall under what is known as maritime law. But what is that exactly? Also called admiralty law, or admiralty, maritime law is the body of legal rules that governs ships and shipping.

While you may think personal injury law is all you need when it comes to having grounds to file a cruise ship accident claim, it’s actually very important to the outcome of your case to know the rules of maritime law. For example, these cases are most commonly heard in federal court (as opposed to state court, but the plaintiff can elect to file the suit in state court but with the federal laws still in practice. However, cruise tickets often place restrictions on where an injury action can be brought; you may have agreed to pursue your injury claim in federal court when you purchased your ticket.

Common Cruise Ship Accident & Injury Claims

Cruise ship accident claims can and do involve a wide range of injury-causing accidents. These cases can be more complex than other personal injury claims due to the fact that they often fall under maritime law (as discussed above) and, therefore, require an attorney who understands how to pursue such cases.

Cruise accident and injury claims may involve issues such as:

• Medical malpractice/substandard medical care provided aboard a cruise ship
• Injuries at a spa or salon on the cruise ship
• Physical or sexual assault
• Bar liability
• Slip, trip, and fall accidents
• Swimming pool/drowning accidents

In addition, the terms of your ticket value can play a significant role in your claim. For example, these terms can alter the statute of limitations to one year instead of three, and notice of such actions may be required much sooner than in typical injury claims. It’s important to contact a Pennsylvania cruise ship lawyer right away to avoid making any mistakes or missing deadlines, which could affect your ability to seek damages.

Common Cruise Ship Accidents

When we think of cruise ship accidents, we often think of the most horrific possible accidents. But in reality, there is an entire spectrum of incidents that can occur on cruise ships, all of which may lead to serious injury.

The most common cruise ship accidents are:

• Slip and Falls: Just like being at home or out in your own community, slip and fall accidents can happen on cruise ships. But even though they may be accidental, it doesn’t mean you need to be held financially responsible for any of the medical procedures or appointments you may need on land.
• Medical Malpractice: If you become ill or sustain an injury on your cruise, you may visit a doctor or nurse on board for minor fixes. However, when your illness or injury is much worse than anticipated and improperly diagnosed, failure to receive adequate treatment may result in additional complications. In addition, if the doctor or nurse makes a quick-fix to your injury and it makes the problem worse, you need to seek legal guidance once you come ashore.
• Accidents while on an Excursion: Even if your injury occurs during an excursion off the boat, many times these activities you pay for are in partnership with the cruise line you are with. But if you fall while hiking, a cord breaks while bungee jumping, or a tour guide simply does not give directions, you may be able to seek damages against the cruise ship company.

Damages Available in Cruise Ship Accident Claims

If you are injured as a result of the negligence of a cruise ship company, you may be entitled to damages, including but not limited to:

• Medical costs
• Rehabilitation costs
• Loss of wages
• Inhibited earning capacity
• Wrongful death claims
• Pain and suffering

After a cruise ship accident, time is of the essence. You need to document your case and be prepared to show proof. You’ll also need a cruise ship accident attorney who can represent you in your injury claim.

We Can Take on Cruise Lines to Fight for Your Rights

Just because your accident occurred out at sea doesn’t mean you aren’t able to recover damages for the losses you have endured. Let Fellerman & Ciarimboli Law PC take on your cruise ship accident case. Our Pennsylvania cruise ship accident lawyers have decades of experience and a proven track record of success in even the most complex of cases. We understand the nuances of maritime law and personal injury claims involving cruise lines, and we are ready to fight for you.

Contact us online or by phone at (877) 989-4878 today for a free consultation.