Steps to Take if You’ve Been Injured on a Cruise Ship Departing from Tampa
You searched several different cruise liners and looked at many itineraries. After checking your calendar and finding the right cruise, book your trip far in advance. By the time the day comes to depart for your Florida vacation, the last thing you are thinking about is getting hurt or having any issues as you take some time off. Though, accidents can happen anywhere, including on vacation. Any number of various reasons, like a wet cruise deck or a broken staircase, can cause an injury accident.
If you were on a cruise departing from Tampa and you were injured, you may have no idea what to do next. The Tampa personal injury attorneys at Fulgencio Law will explain more about this below.
Your Rights and What to Do After an Injury on a Cruise Ship
If you were injured on a cruise ship, you are likely feeling upset and even confused about what your next steps are. After a Florida cruise ship injury accident, this is what you should do:
Contact the Ship’s Safety Officer
Usually, ships will have professionals that act in a safety or security role. Finding these individuals to report the accident is a critical starting point. If a report about the accident is made or forms are filled out, then request copies.
Be Seen by the Medical Staff on the Ship
A cruise ship is like a floating city, and it has all the amenities and services a city would offer, including a medical department. Therefore, have a medical professional examine you and diagnose your injuries. Here too, it is important to ask for copies of all medical reports and notes that are made.
Gather Evidence
If you or a loved one are able, take pictures of the accident scene to document the area. If there are witnesses that saw the accident, speak to them and politely ask them if they would be willing to provide you with their contact information and a statement. Also, take pictures of your physical bodily harm.
Speak with an Attorney
Once back on land, it is best not to wait to connect with an attorney and go over your cruise ship accident. An attorney will not only be able to evaluate your accident experience and provide you with legal guidance on what your rights are but also offer further advice on what other things you should and should not do. In addition, an attorney can value your claim so you have a better understanding of what it is worth.
Call an Attorney at Fulgencio Law Today
Cruises are generally fun and exciting adventures, but if an accident happens, leisurely time on the ship could turn into a nightmare. When injuries are sustained, a claim may be brought to recover damages. You could be entitled to a considerable financial settlement.
If you have questions or need help with a personal injury claim after a cruise ship accident, please call Tampa personal injury attorneys at Fulgencio Law today at (813) 463-0123 to schedule a free initial consultation.