Skip to content
PortMiami is the busiest cruise port in the world, serving over 5 million passengers annually. But once your ship leaves the dock at Terminal A (Royal Caribbean) or Terminal V (Virgin Voyages), your legal rights change instantly.
At Kaiser Romanello, we understand that an injury on the MacArthur Causeway entering the port is a Florida state case, but an injury 3 miles offshore is a Federal Maritime case. We specialize in navigating the complex ‘Forum Selection Clauses’ that cruise lines use to force injured passengers into the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida—which is right here in our backyard.
High-Risk Zones at PortMiami
Accidents don’t just happen at sea; they happen during the chaotic boarding process. We investigate injuries at specific terminals:
Terminal A (The Crown of Miami): Home to the massive Icon of the Seas. The sheer volume of luggage and passengers often leads to trip-and-fall accidents on the gangways.
Terminal F (Carnival): Older infrastructure where uneven pavement and poor lighting in the parking garages frequently cause injuries before you even step on the ship.
Tender Boat Transfers: If your ship anchors offshore (common in the Bahamas) and ferries you in, the transfer from the ship to the small boat is the #1 cause of catastrophic crush injuries.
Why You Need a Miami Lawyer
Most passengers don’t read the fine print on their ticket. Almost all major lines (Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, MSC) have a ‘Forum Selection Clause.’
This clause forces you to file your lawsuit in Miami Federal Court, regardless of where you live or where the accident happened. If you hire a lawyer in Ohio or New York, they likely cannot help you. You need a firm that practices in the Southern District of Florida.
Common Causes of Cruise Ship Injuries
Our Miami cruise ship practice, supported by glowing testimonials, has seen many types of cruise ship injury cases. Some of the most frequent causes include:
- Slip-and-Falls: Wet decks, loose railings, or inadequate signage can create hazards.
- Negligent Crew Members: Employees who fail to properly maintain the ship or address safety issues.
- Food Poisoning: Contaminated meals can result in severe illnesses requiring urgent medical treatment.
- Medical Malpractice: Onboard medical staff may misdiagnose conditions or fail to provide adequate care.
- Inadequate Security: Passengers may become victims of sexual assault or other crimes if security measures are lax.
If a family member experiences serious injuries because of these or other issues, you may be eligible to file a personal injury claim. Our personal injury lawyers and maritime lawyers can help you hold the cruise lines accountable, whether you were sailing with Carnival Cruise Lines, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, or another operator.
Maritime Law and Your Legal Rights
Maritime law governs cruise ship accident litigation and differs from general personal injury law in critical ways. For instance, the statute of limitations for cruise ship injury claims can be significantly shorter than in typical Florida cases. Some passenger ticket contracts require written notice of an injury claim within just a few months.
In cases involving wrongful death or death claims, the process can become even more complex. Whether you are pursuing a case on behalf of a loved one or seeking compensation for yourself, you must act quickly to meet all statute of limitations requirements. Our cruise ship accident lawyers in Broward County and near Coral Gables are experienced in handling these intricate laws and will guide you in exercising your legal options.
How Our Law Firm Can Help
Our law firm is dedicated to protecting injury victims across Florida. We have a proven system for handling cruise ship injury claims from start to finish:
- Case Investigation: We gather evidence, review ship maintenance records, interview crew members, and examine onboard protocols.
- Analysis of Liability: We identify every party that may be responsible, including cruise ship companies and staff who contributed to the cruise ship accident.
- Passenger Ticket Contract Review: Many cruise lines include strict terms in the cruise ticket that can affect your injury claim. Our maritime lawyers ensure you meet all requirements.
- Pursuit of Fair Compensation: Our trial lawyers negotiate aggressively to recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses. We also handle wrongful death and death claims when tragedies occur.
- Accessibility: We know how vital accessibility is during legal proceedings. Our firm, with locations near Coral Gables and in Broward County, is committed to regular updates and open communication.
- Free Consultation & Case Evaluation: Call 844-877-8679 for a no-obligation assessment of your injury case. We will thoroughly explain your legal options and next steps.
By choosing Kaiser Romanello Accident & Injury Attorneys, you gain a legal team that combines personal injury and maritime law expertise. We have handled lawsuits against Carnival Cruise Lines, Royal Caribbean Cruise, Norwegian Cruise Line, and many other operators, as evidenced by our client testimonials. Whether you were on a Royal Caribbean cruise visiting ports in the Caribbean or a short weekend trip to the Bahamas, our Miami cruise ship accident attorneys are prepared to fight for your rights.
Frequently Asked Questions About Miami Cruise Ship Accidents
Miami, known as the cruise capital of the world, sees thousands of passengers depart from PortMiami annually. Accidents on these vessels can lead to complex legal challenges due to maritime law and cruise line policies. Below, our cruise ship accident lawyers address common questions specific to Miami cruise ship accidents to help you understand your rights and next steps.
What should I do immediately after a cruise ship accident in Miami?
Seek medical treatment from the ship’s medical staff or a Miami hospital if ashore, document the incident with photos and notes, and report it to the cruise line’s onboard officials. Contact our Miami cruise ship accident lawyers at 844-877-8679 for a free consultation to understand your rights under maritime law.
How long do I have to file a claim for a Miami cruise ship accident?
The statute of limitations for Miami cruise ship accidents is often shorter than other Florida personal injury cases, sometimes requiring notice within 6 months as per the passenger ticket contract. Review your cruise ticket and consult our maritime lawyers immediately to meet deadlines.
Can I hold a cruise line accountable for negligent crew members in a Miami cruise accident?
Yes, if crew members’ negligence, such as failing to maintain safe deck conditions or respond to hazards, caused your injury, they and the cruise line can be liable. Our cruise ship accident attorneys will investigate and pursue claims against all responsible parties.
What if a loved one died in a Miami cruise ship accident?
You may have grounds for a wrongful death claim under maritime law. Our Miami cruise ship accident lawyers will guide you through the complex legal process, ensuring compliance with cruise ticket terms and deadlines.
How much does it cost to hire a Miami cruise ship injury lawyer?
At Kaiser Romanello, we offer free consultations and typically work on a contingency fee basis, meaning no fees unless we recover compensation. This allows Miami cruise ship injury victims to access legal help from our personal injury lawyers without upfront costs.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
If you have been injured on a Miami cruise ship or anywhere in Florida, reach out to Kaiser Romanello Accident & Injury Attorneys to speak with a miami cruise ship accident lawyer. Our cruise ship accident attorneys understand the challenges posed by cruise ship companies like Carnival Cruise Line, Disney, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Celebrity Cruises. We are here to provide the accessibility, dedication, and representation you deserve, as reflected in our client testimonials.
Phone: 844-877-8679
Free Consultation & Case Evaluation: Call or fill out our online form to view more details.
Let us put our personal injury and maritime law background to work for you. Our personal injury lawyers and maritime lawyers, serving clients near Coral Gables and in Broward County, handle every aspect of your injury case, from dealing with insurers to ensuring compliance with contract conditions.
Resources
Maritime Law Overview: Learn more about maritime law and passenger rights at U.S. Coast Guard.
Cruise Line Safety Information: Check safety records and passenger guidelines at CDC Vessel Sanitation Program.
Miami Port Information: Visit PortMiami for cruise terminal details and passenger resources.
Legal Aid in Florida: Access free legal resources at Florida Courts.
Disclaimer
The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is formed by viewing this content. For specific legal advice regarding your Miami cruise ship accident, please contact Kaiser Romanello Accident & Injury Attorneys for a free consultation. Results may vary depending on the facts of your case.
Contact Us Today
Recent Victories for Clients
$5 Million
Negligent Security
$4 Million
Truck Accident
$1 Million
Ride Share
$1 Million
Car Accident
“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