Are Cruise lines Legally Liable for Passengers Who Contract Coronavirus?

Of all the industries to take a hit during the coronavirus pandemic, cruise lines have taken one of the most significant.  

Many cruise companies like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and Carnival were shut out of the stimulus package following significant stock drops. These cruise lines maintained voyage schedules in the face of a burgeoning pandemic, to make up for lost profits. 

Cruise lines have been aware of COVID-19 and the risks their ships present since China started reporting outbreaks in January. The attorneys at Stevenson Klotz believe these companies hold a significant duty of care to their patrons in light of a global health crisis. Anyone who fell ill of COVID-19 while on a cruise ship may be entitled to damages. Read on to find out more. 

Cruise Ships and COVID-19: By The Numbers

There are still 114 cruise ships floating off the coast, with roughly 93,000 crew members stranded aboard.  

Carnival ships specifically remain sailing to and from ports with passengers and crew on board. Even worse, these passengers are being allowed to dock and leave the boat. If any of these passengers or crew have been exposed to COVID-19, these actions would actively spread the disease.   

Stevenson Klotz is filing claims for passengers exposed to or contracted COVID-19 while vacationing on cruise ships since the discovery of the virus on ships.   

Stevenson Klotz has offices in the popular cruise port of Mobile, AL, and also has a Pensacola location for all Florida residents who took cruises in the sunshine state. Our firm believes there was a breach of the duty of care by these major cruise companies when they continued to operate amid the COVID-19 outbreak. 

Were You Exposed To COVID-19 On A Cruise?

 These cruise conglomerates had a responsibility to act in the best interest of their passengers and crew. There is a substantial amount of evidence to suggest they did not.  

If you or someone you know contracted COVID-19 as a result of any cruise lines’ failure to act, please call our office immediately. We represent clients in Florida and Alabama. Stevenson Klotz will evaluate your case with a free consultation at any time of the day.