Defective Cruise Ship Doors Are Injuring Passengers

Each year, people flock to cruise ships to get away, relax and embark on an adventure. In fact, in 2023, more than 30 million people boarded cruise ships to enjoy their vacations. Sadly, for some unlucky travelers, these trips leave them injured or worse because of negligent cruise operators and faulty equipment. According to recent court documents, cruise ship doors create unreasonable risks of injuries to passengers. If you or a loved one suffered injuries because of a cruise ship door, your claim falls under maritime law, and you need a specialist. Hickey Law Firm is here to help.

A growing issue with automatic doors on cruise ships

Automatic doors use sensors that open when someone is walking through them. While these doors are useful for accessibility, conserving energy and hygiene, defective doors can close without warning. In one recent case, a woman alleges that an automatic door malfunctioned, knocking her to the ground and fracturing her hip. Court records indicate that this wasn’t an isolated incident. At least nine other passengers reported severe injuries because of automatic doors on cruise ships.

Cruise ship door cases

Here are a few reported cruise ship door injuries from recent years.

• On September 3, 2014, a passenger on the Grandeur of the Seas fell and fractured their pelvis when automatic doors malfunctioned while opening.
• On February 11, 2019, the Adventure of the Seas’ automatic glass doors closed on a person’s foot. That individual reported that the injury caused necrotizing fasciitis and required surgery.
• On January 31, 2020, the Allure of the Seas’s doors shut suddenly on a passenger, who reported suffering a fractured hip that required surgery.
• On March 1, 2016, automatic doors near a public restroom on the Anthem of the Seas closed on a passenger who reported a fractured hip and pelvis.
• On February 3, 2015, a man was hit in the head by automatic sliding doors on the Explorer of the Seas. The passenger reportedly visited the medical center twice for headaches but was sent back to his room each time. Sadly, he died from his injuries.
• On January 20, 2016, a woman reported that an automatic door slammed on her, fracturing her femur near her hip on the Freedom of the Seas.
• On December 14, 2016, a woman reported that she was crushed by suddenly closing automatic doors on the Harmony of the Seas, causing severe injuries.
• On August 18, 2018, a woman on the Jewel of the Seas reported that glass automatic doors slammed shut on her on the pool deck.
• On August 30, 2016, a man on the Legend of the Seas reported that he was injured when an automatic door suddenly closed on him, causing him to fall.

This pattern of faulty automatic doors on cruise ships is disturbing and dangerous. Those injured in these accidents need to contact an experienced cruise ship attorney to discuss their case.

Why you need an experienced cruise ship lawyer

It is incredibly important that cruise lines maintain their ships and ensure passenger safety. When they fail to exercise caution and be proactive about potential risks, passengers and their families suffer the consequences.

While the law offers pathways to recover damages when you experience a serious personal injury on a cruise ship, pursuing a claim against a large corporation like Royal Caribbean can be daunting. These companies have their own substantial legal teams and vast resources at their disposal to defend against claims. Also, whether you know it or not, when purchasing your tickets, you likely agreed to a clause that limits how, when, and where you can bring a claim against a cruise line. Hiring someone who understands the system can help remedy this power imbalance and put you in a position to recover for your injuries.

Cruise ship cases, time limits, and where to file

Being injured by an automatic door on a cruise ship means that you need to pursue a claim quickly. The statute of limitations for cruise line cases puts a time limit on your personal injury claim. In most cases, you need to file within a year, but you might need to satisfy some notification requirements even sooner.

Additionally, you must typically file your claim where the cruise line company is located. For many companies, that will be in Miami, Florida.

Cruise ship dangers beyond faulty doors

The risks involving cruise ships extend far beyond faulty doors. There are many common cruise ship dangers that frequently lead to injuries. Some common causes of cruise ship injuries include:

• Slip and falls from slick surfaces, poor lighting, or lacking handrails
• Swimming pool accidents
• Recreational accidents, such as with onboard rock climbing walls
• Fires
• Medical malpractice at on-board facilities
• On-board illnesses and infections

Many cruises also offer excursions as a part of the package. Injuries that occur during one of these events, such as parasailing or snorkeling, could also be the cruise line’s fault. Speaking to an attorney right away is important to learn your legal options for pursuing a claim and recovering compensation.

How Hickey Law Firm can help

Jack Hickey used to represent cruise lines, but now he represents people like you. As a former insider, he knows the industry and uses that experience to fight for his clients.

Our attorneys work tirelessly to get you the compensation you deserve for your injuries, pain, and suffering. We understand how seriously the physical, emotional, and financial toll these incidents can impact your life. Our compassionate legal team is here to help you every step of the way. If you or a loved one suffered injuries because of a malfunctioning automatic door on a cruise ship, Hickey Law Firm can help.