Italian Cruise Tragedy

Authorities continue to search for the cause of the tragic Italian cruise ship accident that injured and killed several passengers. The Italian liner suspiciously ran aground and rolled on its side last month. In a public statement, Costa Cruises, the ship’s owner, alleged that captain error caused the fatal disaster.

Although cruise ship accidents are uncommon, cruise ships pose hidden dangers. All too often, an error on the part of the ship’s captain or crew can lead to harmful consequences. Cruise ships typically transport large groups of people in a confined space, increasing the possibility for serious injury. For this reason, cruise ship companies have a duty to adequately screen and train all employees, especially ship captains. A liner’s captain and crew are also under a duty to safely navigate, operate and maintain the ship while at sea. If these employees fail to maintain reasonably safe conditions on the ship, in certain circumstances the company may be held legally responsible for a passenger’s injury.

Negligence at sea can cause slip and fall accidents, food poisoning, medical malpractice and assault. If you or a loved one has suffered injury on a vessel, you should promptly seek legal advice. Passenger tickets often limit a cruise ship company’s liability and narrow the time frame in which an injured passenger can bring a lawsuit. An experienced attorney can assist you in understanding your legal rights and filing a timely claim against the company. For questions, contact Broussard, David & Moroux at 1-888-337-2323 (toll free) or 337-233-2323 (local).