What are the laws surrounding cruise ship accidents?

The laws surrounding cruise ship accidents in South Carolina are based on maritime law. Maritime law is a system of laws that applies to any incident or accident that occurs in navigable waters. The federal government has jurisdiction over maritime law, so if a cruise ship accident occurs in South Carolina, the laws of the federal government will apply. The primary law for cruise ship accidents in South Carolina is the Death on the High Seas Act (DOHSA). This act is a federal law that allows the family members of victims to seek damages for any accident on the sea. It applies to incidents that occur beyond the 3-mile limit from shore, and the damages are typically restricted to the economic losses of the victim’s family such as lost wages, medical bills, and funeral expenses. The laws for cruise ship accidents in South Carolina also include the Jones Act, which provides greater rights for seamen. Seamen are crew members on boats and ships, and the Jones Act provides them with the right to sue their employers for negligence and other wrongful acts and also provides them with other rights, such as the right to receive medical treatment, paid wages, and rest periods. In addition to federal law, the State of South Carolina may also provide additional statutes and regulations that must be followed to hold a cruise ship company liable for an accident. It is important for the victims and their families to research any applicable state laws to fully understand their rights.

Related FAQs

What types of claims can I make in a cruise ship accident?
What type of evidence is needed to prove negligence in a cruise ship accident?
What is the legal process for resolving a case after a cruise ship accident?
What types of medical bills can be recovered in a cruise ship accident?
Can I bring a claim if I became ill due to negligence on a cruise ship?
Who can I sue for a cruise ship accident?
What are the chances of being successful in a cruise ship accident lawsuit?
What is a maritime injury and what types of compensation can be pursued?
What are the legal requirements for cruise ships to provide their passengers with safety measures?
What legal rights do I have on a cruise ship?

Related Blog Posts

Understanding Cruise Ship Accident Law: What You Need to Know - July 31, 2023
The Basics of Cruise Ship Accident Legal Claims - August 7, 2023
Cruise Ship Negligence: How to Prove a Legal Claim - August 14, 2023
Cruise Ship Liability: Which Parties Can be Held Responsible? - August 21, 2023
Understanding Maritime Laws In Regard to Cruise Ship Accidents - August 28, 2023