There were more than 4,200 passengers can crew members on board Carnival’s Triumph cruise ship that was stuck at sea for 5 days last week. Conditions during the ordeal were nothing short of disastrous, as food was extremely scarce and people were forced to sleep on the floor amid sewage.

According to the U.S. Coast Guard, a fuel leak from a diesel engine line started the engine room fire which knocked out the propulsion system, power, sewage, heating, and air conditioning on the ship. However, it may take as long as six months before the investigation into the cruise ship accident is complete.

While passengers may have endured one of the most harrowing experiences of their lives, it is likely that they will have a difficult time recovering compensation in a lawsuit. Carnival and other major cruise lines include language in their ticket contracts which strictly limits the amount that can be recovered in a lawsuit, and also requires any potential claim to be filed in a favorable jurisdiction for the cruise line.

In addition, maritime law prohibits passengers from recovering damages associated with emotional distress unless it can be proven that the accident was caused by the cruise line’s negligence. As a result, passengers would need to demonstrate that they suffered a physical injury in the cruise ship accident in order to have a valid claim against Carnival. So far, very few injuries have been reported.

The maritime lawyers at Kalfus & Nachman are currently reviewing cases against Carnival Cruise Line related to this accident. If our attorneys feel you have a valid claim, we will fight aggressively to ensure your rights are protected in court.

Please contact Kalfus & Nachman PC today to schedule your free Carnival cruise ship accident consultation today. We serve clients in Norfolk, Newport News, and Roanoke, Virginia.