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How Do I File a Claim Against Royal Caribbean?
We Don’t Take “Low” for an Answer!
Filing a claim against a giant like Royal Caribbean after an onboard injury can feel overwhelming. From navigating strict deadlines to gathering evidence at sea, the process is fraught with pitfalls. As Kaiser Romanello Accident and Injury Attorneys, we’ve guided many clients through this maze under maritime law. Whether your injury stemmed from a deck accident, food poisoning, or crew negligence, we’ll outline the steps here. Remember, time is critical—most claims require action within months. Let’s dive in with practical advice.
Initial Actions After an Injury on Royal Caribbean
The moments after an accident set the foundation for your claim. Act quickly to preserve your rights.
- Report the Incident Onboard: Notify Guest Services immediately and insist on a written accident report. Include details like time, location, and witnesses.
- Seek Medical Care: Visit the ship's infirmary, even for minor issues. Their records become evidence, though be cautious—they work for the cruise line.
- Document Everything: Take photos of hazards (e.g., broken railings), your injuries, and any signage. Collect contact info from witnesses.
- Avoid Signing Waivers: Avoid Signing Waivers
In our experience, unreported injuries lead to denied claims. One client who fell in a buffet line documented the spill, strengthening their case immensely.
Understanding the Legal Framework
In our experience, unreported injuries lead to denied claims. One client who fell in a buffet line documented the spill, strengthening their case immensely.
- Notice Requirement: Provide written notice of your claim within six months of the injury. Detail the incident and send via certified mail to their Miami headquarters.
- Statute of Limitations: File the actual lawsuit within one year. Extensions are rare, so don't delay.
- Jurisdiction Rules: Cases must be filed in federal court in Miami, Florida, per the ticket. We handle this for out-of-state clients.
- Types of Claims: Personal injury for negligence, or contractual if the cruise failed safety promises.
Maritime law protects passengers but imposes hurdles to deter frivolous suits. We’ve filed in Miami courts repeatedly, knowing the judges and procedures.
Step-by-Step Guide to Filing Your Claim
Here’s a clear roadmap, based on our firm’s proven process.
- Step 1: Consult an Attorney Early: Get a free evaluation from specialists like us to assess viability. We review your ticket and evidence.
- Step 2: Send Formal Notice: We'll draft and send the six-month notice, ensuring it complies with Royal Caribbean's requirements.
- Step 3: Investigate Thoroughly: Hire experts for accident reconstruction, review ship logs, and depose witnesses. This builds a strong case.
- Step 4: Negotiate a Settlement: Most cases settle pre-trial. We push for fair compensation covering medicals, lost income, and suffering.
- Step 5: File the Lawsuit if Needed: If negotiations fail, we sue in Miami, preparing for discovery, motions, and trial.
A recent case involved a client injured during an excursion; we filed notice promptly, leading to a favorable out-of-court resolution.
Potential Roadblocks and How to Overcome Them
Royal Caribbean defends aggressively, but preparation wins cases.
- Denials Based on Fine Print: Tickets limit liability for certain risks— we argue exceptions for gross negligence.
- Evidence Access Issues: Ships move, so quick action is key. We subpoena records if needed.
- International Complications: For foreign-flagged ships, additional laws apply, but U.S. protections often prevail.
- Cost Concerns: No-win, no-fee structures like ours remove financial barriers.
Our attorneys have overcome these in dozens of cruise claims, securing justice for victims.
Benefits of Professional Representation
DIY claims rarely succeed against cruise giants.
- Maritime Expertise: We know nuances like the Limitation of Liability Act.
- Resource Access: Investigators, medical experts, and economists to value your claim.
- Maximizing Recovery: Settlements often double with legal help.
If injured, don’t go it alone—contact us now.
Link and Resources
Explore our Royal Caribbean Injury Lawyer Page for case studies and FAQs. Submit your details via our Contact Form or dial 844-877-8679 anytime. Let’s start your claim today.
Filing against Royal Caribbean is doable with expert guidance. We’ve turned victims’ stories into victories—yours could be next
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“Kaiser Romanello changed my life. They are The Dream Team! Could not recommend them anymore! If you want to get the most money for your personal injury claim call Kaiser Romanello today!”
-Lu R
Former client
“l just got off the phone with Mr. Loren Kaiser for a free consultation and he was absolutely amazing. He was extremely helpful, detail oriented and did not add any “rushed” feeling to the phone call. If I have anything substantial to move forward with, I will proudly utilize this law office. Thank you, Mr. Kaiser, for your help, input and advice! It is greatly appreciated.”
-Trina R
Former client
“Steve and his partner are just very knowledgeable, amazing client service, Steve it is the kind of persons who loves what he is doing, he went about and beyond his lawyer responsibilities in my case, they care about you, If you are looking for professionals at the highest levels, use their services. Not only you will be represented by top lawyers, but you feel like part of the family. Thanks for everything, God bless you.”
-Carlos V
Former client
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