Approximately 30 million passengers sailed on cruise ships worldwide in 2019. With a number that high, it comes as no surprise that some passengers can get hurt while on board. According to the Miami cruise ship lawyers at Lipcon, Margulies & Winkleman, P.A, because of the complexities of the laws governing accidents while on a cruise, seeking help from a maritime attorney is essential. 

Here are the top five cruise ship accidents that might require the services of an attorney:

#1. Slip and Fall Accidents

One of the most common types of cruise ship accidents is slip and fall. Such accidents are prevalent and can be caused by a variety of factors. Wet and slippery floors, luggage in hallways, hidden elevation changes, or defective stairs are a few of the reasons you may suffer severe injuries.

In fact, cruise ships have the same type of slip and fall hazards that you might encounter onshore or in other land environments. But they also have other potential safety hazards inherent to a maritime landscape, including sea spray, corrosion from salt water, or water tracked into high-traffic areas from pools. 

#2. Fires

Fires have become more frequent in the cruise line industry, and when they arise, they are sudden and extensive enough to end the entire voyage. You can suffer severe disfigurement, burns, and scars if injured in a cruise ship fire. A fire can increase the risk of injuries from other unsafe conditions aboard a cruise ship or impact the ship's limited medical facilities to take care of injuries. 

#3. Sexual Assault or Battery

Unfortunately, the risk of battery or sexual assault is real on the commercial cruise line. Physical and sexual assault on cruise ships was one of the leading crimes that the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated concerning vessel incidents. When on board, you may be in danger of being sexually assaulted or physically injured by other guests or crew members, causing injuries and life-long emotional trauma.

#4. Drowning

As a passenger on a cruise ship, the chances of drowning in a swimming pool accident, if the ship is damaged and taking on water, or if you fall overboard are ever-present.

#5. Recreational Activities

You can also get injured while performing recreational activities, such as water activities or sky rides offered on a cruise. In some situations, you may have a product liability claim against a manufacturer if the equipment is defective. Still, you can also file a claim against the cruise company to pursue compensation.

Contacting a law firm is vital if you are hurt on a cruise ship. Cruise ship attorneys can guide you through the legal process and help you file a claim against the cruise line. Moreover, they can protect your rights and fight for the financial compensation you deserve. Because time is against you in a cruise ship accident case, it is vital to act before the statute of limitations runs out. Otherwise, your case can be dismissed, and you lose your right to pursue compensation.