Best Fort Lauderdale Cruise Ship Injury Attorneys
in 2025 
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John H. (Jack) Hickey Hickey Law Firm, P.A. |
Call Today 786-755-1966 |
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Michael Winkleman Lipcon, Margulies & Winkleman, P.A. |
Call Today 713-322-6347 |
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Charles Lipcon Lipcon, Margulies & Winkleman, P.A. |
Call Today 786-751-4926 |
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Our Selection Process
Attorney at Law Magazine established Local Legal Authorities in 2019 to help consumers find the best Fort Lauderdale cruise ship injury attorneys for their specific needs. The magazine has been interviewing attorneys since 2009. Every Fort Lauderdale cruise ship injury Local Legal Authority attorney focuses most of his or her time on cases and legal matters within the specific practice area for which they have been listed. Each attorney is highly successful in their practice area and has consumer reviews to confirm it. We hand-selected this list of attorneys because of their passion for justice, their credibility, and their ultimate desire to best represent their clients. No algorithms, patented technology or award-ranking systems helped us create this list. We curated a selection of passionate Fort Lauderdale cruise ship injury attorneys with the relentless desire to represent clients like you to the very best of their ability. Reach out to any attorney you would like to work with today.
Step 1: Look for Experience in Maritime and Cruise Ship Injury Law
Cruise ship injury cases differ significantly from typical personal injury claims because they fall under maritime law and international regulations. Many cruise lines have strict deadlines for filing claims, and cases are often handled in specific jurisdictions outlined in the passenger ticket contract. An experienced Fort Lauderdale cruise ship injury attorney will be familiar with these unique legal challenges, ensuring that your case is handled correctly. Look for a lawyer who has successfully represented clients injured on cruise ships with cases similar to yours, including slip and falls, medical negligence, crew member misconduct, or dangerous excursions.
Step 2: Research Their Track Record and Client Reviews
A lawyer’s success rate can indicate how well they handle cruise injury cases. Look for an attorney with a history of securing settlements or winning cases against major cruise lines. Since cruise ship companies often have aggressive legal teams, you need an attorney who is prepared to fight for your rights. Reading client testimonials, online reviews, and case results can provide insight into their experience and how they treat their clients.
Step 3: Assess Their Resources and Legal Team
Cruise ship injury cases may require investigations and expert witnesses. A well-established attorney will have the resources, industry connections, and legal team necessary to build a strong case. Ask if they have medical experts, accident reconstruction specialists, and maritime law consultants who can support your claim. The ability to gather compelling evidence and counter the cruise line’s defense strategy is imperative to winning compensation.
Step 4: Schedule a Consultation and Ask the Right Questions
Most cruise ship injury attorneys in Fort Lauderdale offer a free consultation, giving you the opportunity to discuss your case and determine if they’re the right fit. During the consultation, ask about their experience with similar cases, success rate, and approach to dealing with cruise lines. Inquire about their fee structure—many work on a contingency basis, meaning you only pay if they win your case.
Recommendations While You Wait to Connect to an Attorney
- Seek medical attention immediately, either on the cruise ship or once you return to shore. Having official medical records documenting your injury is necessary for proving the severity of your condition. If treated by the ship’s medical staff, request copies of all medical reports and treatment notes.
- Report the injury to the cruise line as soon as possible. Request a written copy of the incident report and note the names of any staff members who assisted you. Cruise lines often have strict deadlines for filing claims, so having a formal report can support your case.
- If possible, while still onboard, gather evidence by taking photos and videos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any hazardous conditions that contributed to your injury. If there were witnesses, ask for their contact information and statements, as their testimony may be valuable later.
- Avoid speaking with cruise line representatives or insurance adjusters without legal counsel. They may try to minimize your claim or pressure you into accepting a low settlement.
- Refrain from posting about your injury on social media, as anything you share could be used against you.
- Keep detailed records of all medical expenses, lost wages, and any additional costs related to your injury. This documentation will help your attorney calculate the full value of your claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Sue a Cruise Line for My Injury?
Yes, you may be able to sue the cruise line for your injury, but the process is more complex than a standard personal injury case. Many cruise tickets contain contractual limitations, including where and how lawsuits must be filed. Cruise lines often designate specific courts (such as those in Florida) for legal claims. Additionally, these cases are subject to maritime law, which has rules different from regular injury claims. A cruise ship injury attorney can determine if you have a valid case and help navigate these legal complexities.
- Who Can Be Held Liable for My Cruise Ship Injury?
Liability depends on how the injury occurred. The cruise line may be responsible if they fail to maintain safe conditions, provide adequate medical care, or properly train their staff. If your injury happened during an excursion, a third-party tour operator could also be liable. In some cases, equipment manufacturers may be responsible if defective products contributed to the accident. A cruise ship injury attorney will investigate the circumstances of your injury and determine who should be held accountable.
- How Long Do I Have to File a Claim Against a Cruise Line?
Time limits for filing a claim vary, but many cruise lines have strict deadlines outlined in their passenger ticket contract. Some require injury claims to be filed within six months, while lawsuits may need to be initiated within one year of the accident. These limitations differ from standard personal injury statutes of limitations, making it essential to consult an attorney as soon as possible.
- Will My Case Be Settled or Go to Court?
Many cruise injury claims are settled out of court through negotiations with the cruise line’s insurance company. However, if the cruise line denies responsibility or offers an unfair settlement, your attorney may recommend filing a lawsuit. Cases involving severe injuries, wrongful death, or significant negligence are more likely to go to trial. An experienced Fort Lauderdale cruise ship injury attorney can advise on the best course of action.
- How Much Compensation Can I Receive for My Cruise Ship Injury?
Compensation varies depending on the severity of your injury, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Potential damages may include:
- Medical costs (current and future treatments).
- Lost income if you are unable to work.
- Pain and suffering for physical and emotional distress.
- Disability or long-term rehabilitation expenses.
- Wrongful death damages if a loved one was fatally injured.
Your attorney will evaluate your case to ensure you seek maximum compensation.
- Do I Need an Attorney for a Cruise Ship Injury Claim?
Yes, hiring a cruise ship injury attorney is highly recommended. Cruise lines have powerful legal teams that will try to minimize or deny claims. As a maritime law professional, your lawyer will handle all legal complexities, including filing deadlines, jurisdiction issues, and negotiations with the cruise line’s insurers. Having legal representation dramatically improves your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injury.