All year round, hundreds of cruise ships sail the open seas. Thousands of passengers enjoy their time away from their busy lives while they enjoy gorgeous views, luxury food and sunbathing.
Cruise ships may make a large profit from the many people looking for a break in their lives, but they aren’t the safest. Passengers may suffer injuries that ruin their vacation. Here’s how:
1. Slip and falls
Slip-and-fall accidents can happen anywhere, but they can be especially prominent on cruise ships. Cruise ships can be unstable when there are heavy waves and storms, which may cause passengers to slide and fall as the deck changes elevations. Slips and falls may even cause passengers to fall overboard and get taken out to sea, which could lead to stranding or drowning.
2. Swimming pool accidents
A lifeguard should always be on duty at pools, but they can’t always prevent accidents. Some common accidents happen because of slack pool deck floors. But, other injuries can occur because of defective stairs and ladders. Some injuries may even happen when broken glass isn’t properly cleaned out of a pool.
3. Elevator accidents
Elevators require constant maintenance or they could malfunction. Passengers may get trapped inside a broken elevator. Or, a broken elevator may fall and lead to serious or fatal injuries.
4. Fires
Just because cruise ships are out at sea, doesn’t mean they’re invulnerable to fires. There could be a fire inside a cruise ship, such as from a cooking or engine fire. Passengers could be exposed to the fire and suffer severe burns.
5. Illness
Cruise ships often host thousands of guests. Without the proper procedures, passengers could develop serious illnesses. For example, improperly cooked food may lead to food illness. Or, uncleaned pools and hot tubs could cause Legionnaires’ disease, which can spread like wildfire.
If you’re a victim of a cruise ship accident, then you may need to be aware of your legal right to seek compensation for your injuries and losses.