Cruise Day Injury at the Port of Galveston Who’s Liable and How Claims Work

The Port of Galveston is one of the busiest and most popular cruise destinations in the United States. With thousands of passengers arriving each day to embark on their cruises, the port is a hub of activity. While most people enjoy their time at the port, accidents do happen, and individuals may find themselves injured. An Injury at the Port of Galveston can occur in many ways — whether it’s slipping on a wet surface or suffering an injury while boarding a cruise — so it is essential to understand how liability works and how to pursue a claim for compensation.

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Understanding Injury Types at the Port of Galveston Cruise Day Injury at the Port of Galveston Who’s Liable and How Claims Work

The Port of Galveston can be a busy place, especially during cruise seasons when multiple ships dock at once. This high level of activity increases the likelihood of accidents. Injuries can happen in various situations, and understanding the types of injuries that can occur is the first step in determining liability. Common injuries at the Port of Galveston include falls, vehicle accidents, and injuries sustained while boarding or disembarking from the cruise ships. People may slip on wet floors in the terminal, trip on uneven surfaces, or suffer from injuries caused by accidents with transportation services provided at the port. Additionally, injuries sustained while on the cruise ship itself are also relevant, as many incidents begin or continue once passengers are on board. These injuries can involve slip and falls, foodborne illnesses, or accidents resulting from poor maintenance.

Determining Liability for Cruise Day Injuries

The key to understanding liability for injuries at the Port of Galveston lies in determining who is at fault. Several parties may be involved, depending on the nature of the injury and where it occurred.

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Jonathan Zendeh Del

Trial Attorney

Gabe Perez

Trial Attorney

Carolyn Zendeh Del

Certified Mediator, Attorney

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Trial Attorney

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Office Manager, Paralegal

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Legal Assistant Zaira Banda

Zaira Banda

Legal Assistant

Legal Assistant Colleen Herndon

Colleen Herndon

Legal Assistant

If you are injured while at the Port of Galveston, the first consideration is whether the injury occurred due to poor maintenance or hazardous conditions in the terminal. The Port Authority has a duty to ensure that the port is properly maintained and that any areas that may pose a danger to passengers are repaired or clearly marked. If an injury results from an unaddressed hazard, the Port Authority may be liable for negligence. In cases where the injury occurs on the cruise ship itself, liability shifts to the cruise line. Cruise lines are responsible for maintaining a safe environment for passengers while on board. This includes addressing potential hazards, properly training crew members, and ensuring the safety of embarkation areas. If a cruise line fails to uphold these responsibilities and an injury occurs, the cruise line may be held responsible. Third-party vendors operating at the port or on the cruise ship may also bear liability. For example, if you are injured due to negligence by a tour operator, parking service, or transport vehicle operator, the third-party company may be held responsible. These companies are obligated to ensure the safety of their operations and passengers.

Steps to Take After an Injury at the Port of Galveston

After an injury occurs, there are crucial steps to take that will help ensure your legal rights are protected. The first and most important step is to seek medical attention. Regardless of how minor the injury may seem, it is always best to get checked out by a medical professional. Injuries may worsen over time, and medical documentation is critical in establishing the extent of the damage. Once medical attention is secured, the next step is to report the injury. If the injury occurs at the port, it should be reported to port authorities or the management of the facility. If the injury takes place on the cruise ship, notify the ship’s crew or security personnel immediately. Documenting the incident with the appropriate authority is essential in establishing a record of the event.

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Gather as much evidence as possible to support your case. Take photographs of the area where the injury occurred, including any hazards that might have contributed to the accident. Collect witness statements from anyone who saw the incident. These statements and evidence will help establish liability.

Filing a Personal Injury Claim

Once the injury is documented, the next step is to consider filing a personal injury claim. The process for filing a claim varies depending on the circumstances of the injury. If the injury occurred at the port due to negligence or unsafe conditions, you may be able to file a claim with the Port Authority or the city of Galveston. However, if the injury is related to the cruise, the cruise line itself may be the responsible party. When filing a claim, it is important to work with an experienced attorney who specializes in personal injury cases. An attorney will be able to assess the details of your case, determine who is at fault, and help you navigate the legal process. They can also help you understand what types of compensation you may be entitled to, such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If your injury was caused by a third-party vendor, you may need to file a claim with the vendor’s insurance company. In this case, your attorney can help you gather the necessary evidence and work to secure compensation for your injuries.

How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?

The statute of limitations, or the time frame within which you can file a claim, varies depending on where the injury occurred and the parties involved. For injuries at the Port of Galveston, you typically have two years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury claim. However, if the injury occurred while on a cruise, the statute of limitations may differ. It’s crucial to consult an attorney as soon as possible after the injury to ensure you don’t miss any important deadlines.

What to Expect from a Personal Injury Claim

After filing a claim, the next step is often negotiation. The responsible party or their insurance company may offer a settlement to resolve the case without going to trial. However, these initial offers are often lower than what you may be entitled to. An attorney can help you assess the offer and determine whether it is fair or if further negotiations are needed. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your case may proceed to court. In court, your attorney will present evidence and argue your case before a judge or jury. They will aim to prove that the responsible party’s negligence led to your injury and that you are entitled to compensation. If the court finds in your favor, they may award you damages for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and more.

Possible Compensation for Cruise Day Injuries

When a personal injury claim is successful, you may be entitled to compensation for several types of damages. These may include:
  • Medical expenses: All costs related to the treatment of your injury, including future medical needs if applicable. 
  • Lost wages: Compensation for any income lost due to the injury, including time off work. 
  • Pain and suffering: Compensation for the physical and emotional distress caused by the injury. 
  • Punitive damages: In cases where the responsible party was particularly reckless or egregious in their actions, punitive damages may be awarded. 
Injuries at the Port of Galveston or while on a cruise can be overwhelming and confusing. Determining who is responsible and understanding how to file a claim can be challenging, but it is essential to take the proper steps to protect your rights. Working with an experienced personal injury attorney can help you navigate the process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Zendeh Del & Associates PLLC specializes in personal injury cases and is committed to fighting for the rights of those who have been injured at the Port of Galveston or aboard cruise ships. Our experienced attorneys can guide you through the claims process and work diligently to ensure that your case is handled efficiently and fairly. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your situation.

To learn more about this subject click here: Personal Injury Claims: How to Prove Liability in a Galveston Car Accident