In recent months a deadly accident on board a cruise ship is leading some to question whether or not the cruise ship company should be found at-fault for the death. Keep reading to learn more about the case and our legal opinion. Then contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 if you have lost a loved one to a drowning accident.
The Circumstances Around the Deadly Accident
A 39-year-old woman from Utah left Seattle on the Emerald Princess for a seven-day cruise to Alaska. A fight broke out that resulted in her death. The cruise line, which was underway at the time, apprehended the person believed at-fault for the killing and kept them secured. The fleet security team worked with local authorities as well as the FBI, who embarked on the ship when the ship landed in Juneau.
Why Did the FBI Get Involved?
It may seem strange for the FBI to get involved, but in fact the death occurred in national waters. As a result, the FBI has jurisdiction. The cruise did not dock as planned in Tracy Arm Fjord but instead when straight to Juneau to meet with the FBI investigators.
Is the Cruise Ship at Fault?
In this situation, it appears that they are not. They do not have the responsibility to prepare for every potentially dangerous situation that can arise. However, that does not mean that they would not be at fault in other instances.
For example, cruise lines are responsible for protecting their passengers when they are on board. They are considered common carriers, which means they have a special legal duty to keep their passengers safe. It is a similar duty of care that is required by train and bus companies.
Potentially Valid Claims Against a Cruise Line
Some examples of claims that may be valid against a cruise line include accidents in which a person fell overboard, got an infection from eating contaminated food or food that was prepared in unsanitary conditions, slipping and falling on water slides, wet pool decks, etc., sexual/physical assault that occurred due to unsafe premises, falling objects, and medical negligence.
Have You Been Injured on a Cruise Ship? Get the Help You Need
If you have been injured on a cruise ship or have lost a loved one due to a cruise ship accident, then you may have grounds for a legal case. Contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas now at 909-982-0707 to request a free legal consultation. If we accept your case, it will be on a contingency basis that means you do not owe us a cent until we win your case.
