100 Cruise Passengers Sickened by Stomach Virus
A stomach virus sickened nearly 100 passengers on a Princess Cruise Line that docked in Miami where another ship contained passengers who also complained of gastrointestinal illness. In all, TBO.com reports 92 passengers and 13 crew on the Ruby Princess were affected by stomach pain, diarrhea, and vomiting. The ship returned to South Florida on Sunday, February 5. The Crown Princess arrived at the dock Saturday, February 4 at Port Everglades. The passenger sicknesses are not believed to be related. As is customary, the ships must be disinfected in the cabins and public areas before they can embark again.
Florida has more cruise terminals than any other state, all of which accommodate millions of passengers who embark for a cruise every year. Passengers should read closely the fine print on the back of the ticket to understand their rights. Experience an injury on a cruise ship, such as a premises liability or slip and fall, and the passenger may find that the cruise operator can avoid liability and accountability. The major cruise operators are registered to foreign countries and therefore do not have to abide by U.S. regulations. Doctors are not employees of the cruise ship, so it is recommended to buy additional insurance in case you have a medical mishap onboard and want to seek medical attention back in the U.S.
An experienced Florida maritime and admiralty attorney is your best ally when problems develop during your cruise. Your attorney will understand how to determine jurisdiction, negligence, and the cruise line’s responsibility to obtain for you the compensation you deserve.
Source: http://www2.tbo.com/business/business/2012/feb/04/1/more-than-200-south-florida-cruise-passengers-stru-ar-355127/
