On a cruise ship, accidents can happen when you least expect it. Protection comes in two parts, once before the injury and once afterwards. A maritime accident attorney can help you afterwards, but the pre injury checklist is up to the individual. But what happens when the accident is due to possible negligence from the cruise operator? Here are a few things to consider when dealing with a cruise ship incident.
1. Get Help Immediately
You never know how serious an injury is in the moment it happens. Even if you’re not in any pain, take the time to catch your breath. Those few moments can sometimes mean the difference between a minor and a major injury. Depending on the situation, you also run the risk of endangering other people in the same area. Be mindful of your surroundings so that you don’t create chaos in a small timeframe.
2. Who Is At Fault?
Once the dust settles, the circumstances of the injury should be in full view. Was the floor slippery? Were there missing signs? Is the ship in bad shape? Whatever led to your injury should be investigated immediately. The longer you wait to identify the source, the greater chance there is that it can’t be used in a case for your favor.
3. Take Notes
Details mean everything, even if the case doesn’t go to court. If you have witnesses, get their written statements. If a worker admits fault in the heat of the moment, that is a noteworthy admission. Even if they walk the statement back at a later date, you will have notes signed by nearby witnesses. Notes are also a great way to keep contact information organized.
4. Record The Evidence
Take pictures and record video of the area, and of your injury. Save emails, text messages and any verifiable documents. The burden of proof is on your shoulders, so evidence should always be your weapon of choice. Cruise ships and their employees are less likely to let the case go to court if you have a mountain of evidence. Your insurance company will also be interested in whatever evidence you collected. Insurance claims can easily be denied if there isn’t a record of the incident to follow up with.
5. Retrieve A Written Report
Besides calling your insurance company, this is probably the most important step. A written report of the incident should be emailed, faxed or delivered to you in a timely manner. This is an official recording of the incident and the company’s point of view about why it took place. Any irregularities in the report that you can disprove with your collected evidence will be a bonus during litigation. Push for an official report, and be wary of any delays in getting your hands on it.
Wrap Up
It becomes much easier to deal with the fallout of an injury when you’re prepared. No one wants to deal with a serious problem, especially when they’re away from home. Cruise ships are a unique situation, and the solutions are always right at your fingertips. Make a decision for your future, and protect your right to get what you deserve.
