Unfortunately, many Irish holiday makers are injured each year while on cruise ships. These accidents can happen on-board the ship or while dis-embarking. They can also be caused by food poisoning or bacterial infection while on the ship itself.
What should I do if I have been injured at sea?
After an accident at sea it is very important to take the following practical steps;
- Make sure the accident is properly reported to the ships staff
- Insist that you get a copy of any Incident/Accident Report Form completed
- Request any CCTV footage that may have captured the accident
- Be seen by the ship’s doctor immediately
- Request a copy of the ships doctors’ medical records which you are entitled to
- Notify your travel insurers immediately as you may be entitled to reimbursement of any medical expenses that you have
- Keep a note of any witnesses to the accident and get their details as you may need to contact them after you dis-embark the ship.
We have many years of expertise in assisting Irish holiday makers in successfully pursuing claims for compensation for injuries received while on cruise ships. Such claims are pursued under the Athens Convention. This Convention makes it mandatory for all carriers performing carriage by sea of more than twelve passengers to have indemnity insurance in respect of liability for death and the personal injury of passengers.
How long do I have to sue?
The time limit for bringing proceedings for personal injury pursuant to the Convention is two years. The time starts to run in a personal injury action from the date of dis-embarkation of the passenger. It is very important that if you have been injured in an accident at sea that you immediately seek legal advice once you dis-embark from the ship to ensure that your legal rights are fully protected.
Where can I sue for my injuries?
The Athens Convention has special rules for where claims can be taken. The Claimant is given a choice of the forum subject to some limitations.
For more information on your legal rights to claim compensation after suffering an injury in a hotel or any type of accommodation abroad please contact Liam Moloney Solicitor today at 045 – 898000 or simply email the firm at info@moloneysolicitors.ie
If you wish to furnish us with brief details of how your accident occurred please feel free to complete and return to us the attached Instructions Form https://moloneysolicitors.ie/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Holiday-Accident-Fact-Sheet.pdf
*In contentious business a Solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage of any award or settlement
