Gangway Injury

Establishing the state of the gangway at the time of the injury is paramount. Oftentimes cruise lines have CCTV video cameras positioned to capture people walking on and off the gangways. Sometimes the injured passenger or travel companion take photographs of the gangway for use in a potential claim. These images are very useful to establish an unreasonably dangerous condition. Sometimes there is no visual evidence, and we must rely upon testimony and records. In those cases, our cruise ship gangway accident lawyers identify the relevant crew members stationed at the gangways and the other passengers who were near our client when the accident occurred. We take their depositions to establish the gangway’s state. We also compel the cruise line to provide maintenance records concerning the subject gangway.

In addition to the evidence we gather from the witnesses and the cruise line, there are global agencies founded to oversee safe marine travel, such as the International Maritime Organization. These agencies set guidelines for the construction, installation, maintenance, and proper use of gangways. In addition to internationally recognized guidelines, cruise operators develop their own procedures regarding the proper deployment of gangways which are many times not followed by the crewmembers either due to lack of training or being rushed. From this evidence, our cruise ship gangway accident attorneys are able to prove that the cruise line is negligent and that such negligence was the cause of our client’s injuries and resulting damages.

Injuries resulting from gangway accidents are vast and include:

• Fractured wrists, arms, elbows, knee caps and hips;
• Shoulder rotator cuff tears;
• Deep cuts resulting in scaring;
• Knee meniscus tears;
• Closed head injuries; and,
• Neck and back fractures and herniated discs.

These injuries can be very serious and often require surgery. Above and beyond the trauma associated with an accident, an injury could have lasting physical and economical implications. Should you or a loved one become injured due to a cruise gangway accident, it is important to seek appropriate medical care and treatment. Failure in receiving proper medical care not only prolongs one’s injury but could have a negative impact on a legal claim.