Cruise Ship Crew Accident Lawyer

Dedicated Representation for Houston Cruise Ship Crewmember Injuries

Working on a cruise ship can be a fun, exciting way to see the world, but it can also be filled with dangers. Cruise ship accidents happen frequently resulting in serious injury or death. A person who is injured while working on a cruise ship may be protected under the Jones Act and entitled to compensation for their losses. At the Law Office of Roy A. Boujaoude, P.C., we represent cruise ship workers who have been injured on the job. Our maritime lawyers can help you understand your rights and fight to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact our office today at (713) 690-2277 for a free consultation. 

Can I Sue for Injuries If I Am Injured While Working on a Cruise Ship?

If you are a crew member injured while working on a cruise ship you have several rights including the right to pursue compensation if you are injured. As a cruise ship employee, you are likely covered under the Jones Act, a federal law that protects seamen in the United States. It is believed that many cruise ship employees refuse to come forward even if they are seriously injured for fear of retaliation. Too often workers are forced into unsafe, unhygienic working conditions and continue to suffer because they do not want to lose their job.  As an injured employee you are protected by law and should never have to fear retaliation for speaking up about an accident or injury.

What Is the Jones Act?

The Jones Act is part of the Merchant Marine Act of 1920. It is a federal statute that protects seamen including their right to file a personal injury lawsuit if they are injured on the job. The Jones Act covers seamen who work aboard ships on navigable waters. To be considered a seaman you must:
  • Spend at least 30% of your time working on a ship or fleet
  • Perform work that directly contributes to the vessel’s functions or to accomplish the ship’s tasks. 
If you are injured while working on a cruise ship, you need to speak with an attorney. Maritime law is complex and requires a detailed understanding of the Jones Act. Filing a Jones Act claim can be challenging without the help of an experienced attorney and doing it incorrectly or improperly could result in your claim being denied.

What Types of Injuries Can I Sue For?

  • Slip and fall: Vacation goers are just so happy to be on the ship and relaxing on vacation. But there can be many hazards on cruise ships, such as luggage that the bell boy has left in the hallway, a water spill in the cafeteria or defects in the stairs.
  • Assault: With so many people in close quarters on a cruise ship, sometimes things get heated. This leads to crew members or other passengers assaulting an individual. Assault can come in the form of physical assault, sexual assault or verbal assault. Regardless of the form of assault, it can have lasting effects on the victim’s emotional wellbeing.
  • Food poisoning: Passengers on a cruise rely on all their food to be provided for them. When crew members handle food improperly it can lead to food poisoning or the spread of illnesses.
  • Drowning: Drowning can occur on a cruise ship within swimming pools, when the ship takes on water or if a person goes overboard.
  • Swimming pool accidents: At the swimming pool, cruise ship vacationers can slip and fall on the pool deck, get injured on pool steps or drown.
  • Fire: When a fire breaks out on a cruise ship, patrons can suffer burns, scars and disfigurement. Fires also pose a risk to the integrity of the boat, meaning people can drown or be otherwise harmed.
  • Elevator accidents: It is crucial that crew members maintain elevators on cruise ships. When elevators are not properly maintained, it can lead to severe malfunctions and injuries.
  • Sponsored excursions or other recreational activities: Crew members on cruise ships are tasked with ensuring that patrons have a good time. This means regular activities, which can open the door to dangerous situations where people get injured.
You should never underestimate or downplay your injuries. There are state and federal laws that protect you from being fired or “blackballed” for reporting an accident or injury to your superior. Contact our office today to discuss whether you have a valid claim for damages.

What Should I Do If I Am Injured on a Houston Cruise Ship?

Several cruise ships go in and out of the Ports of Houston and Galveston. If you are injured while working on one of these cruise lines such as Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Carnival Cruise Lines. If you are injured while working on a cruise ship in Houston you need to:
    • Report the injury to your superior. Make a record of what happened and make sure it is in writing.
    • Document everything that happened before, during, and after the accident. Take videos and photos at the scene.
    • Get medical treatment. Failure to seek and continue medical treatment can directly impact your case.
  • Consult with a cruise ship accident attorney. An attorney experienced in Jones Act claims and maritime law can help ensure you receive the maximum compensation available for your case.
If you are injured in a cruise ship accident in Houston it is essential that you do not sign anything or make any statements until you have spoken with an attorney. Signing something may waive your right to compensation and release the cruise line from liability.

Contact Our Office to Speak with a Houston Cruise Ship Accident Attorney

Were you injured while working on a cruise ship in Houston? Contact our office at (713) 690-2277 for a free, no-obligation consultation.
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