Taking a cruise is a popular form of leisure travel. However, crimes or accidents can happen on a cruise ship. These incidents can lead to all sorts of injuries. The cruise ship might not be equipped to handle these injuries, so it’s important to know what are some of the most common injuries and how to avoid them.
Slip and Fall Injuries
It’s not surprising that slip and fall injuries are one the most common ways passengers and crew members get injured on a cruise ship. Although the journey is generally smooth, it can get a bit turbulent on rough waters. The slippery floors on the deck of the ship or next to the swimming pool are also another cause of slip and fall accidents. A slip-and-fall accident can result in injuries to some of the more sensitive areas of the body, including the head and the spine. Make sure you wear the right footwear and be extra cautious when walking on slippery floors.
Shore Excursion Injuries
A shore excursion can lead to many types of accidents. Shore excursions offer passengers an adventurous and exciting activity, but they can also be dangerous. If you fall on the shore and hit your head, you could suffer from traumatic brain injury (TBI) or other serious injuries. In some cases, you might need treatment at the closest medical facility. The cruise ship or the excursion organizer can be held liable for injuries that happen on an excursion.
Drowning and Water-Related Incidents
Falling overboard is not so common but can result in serious injuries. The more common water accident on cruise ships is in or near the swimming pools. Most luxurious cruise liners have a swimming pool or multiple pools on the ship. Some cruise liners can also have water slides, increasing the chances of a water-related accident. Designated lifeguards can help avoid incidents of drowning, but they might not be able to prevent injuries. You must adhere to the safety rules and policies of the cruise to minimize the chances of any water-related accidents.
Poor Medical Care Injuries
Another common cruise ship injury is related to poor medical care. While you don’t expect the cruise ship to offer high-level medical care, you do expect a reasonable level of care, especially in emergencies. In case of a serious accident, the staff on a cruise ship can call for medical evacuation of the injured. Any delays in medical assistance can be catastrophic for the victim.
Incidents have even happened on cruise ships with state-of-the-art medical facilities. Negligence of the medical staff is a common reason for injuries suffered by passengers.
If you have been injured in maritime accidents due to another party’s negligence or wrongdoing, you have the right to seek compensation. Get in touch with a cruise accident lawyer to discuss your legal options.
