Cruise · 4 min read · 2026-10-06
What to Do After a Cruise Ship Injury
Short answer
Report the injury onboard, get medical care, photograph the scene, collect witness names, and read your ticket — most cruise lines require written notice within months and a lawsuit within one year, usually in a specific federal court.
1. Report the injury before you leave the ship
Ask for a written incident report and request a copy. If the crew will not give you one, write down the name of the person who took your report and the time.
2. Get medical care and keep the records
Visit the ship's medical center and follow up with your own doctor when you return home. Keep every bill and record.
3. Preserve evidence
Evidence onboard can disappear quickly.
- Photos and video of the area, lighting, and any spill or hazard
- Names and cabin numbers of witnesses
- Your shoes and clothing from the incident
- Your cruise ticket and booking confirmation
4. Check the deadlines in your ticket
Cruise tickets commonly require written notice of a claim within about six months and a lawsuit within one year. Many require suit in federal court in Miami. Missing a deadline can end a claim, so speak with a lawyer early.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I file a lawsuit against a cruise line?
Many major cruise lines require suits in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida in Miami. Your ticket controls, so review it carefully.
This article is general information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Josef Timlichman, Esq. is licensed in Florida. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.