Cruise Ships and Violence
Taking a cruise can be relaxing and enjoyable. But what happens when someone is violently attacked on one of these cruises that are meant to relax us. As most everyone knows, especially cruise ship accident lawyers, violence unfortunately is everywhere.
Cruise ships are no exception. So how do you know what to do when you become the victim of a violent crime during a cruise?
Cruise ships and violence don’t mix and a person should never have to fear for their safety during a vacation such as taking a cruise.
Over a five year time period, and aboard various cruise liners, as many as 173 sexual assaults have been reported, and most of these occurrences were never prosecuted.
One reason for this is that most cruise ships are licensed and registered under foreign flags, and this means they aren’t required to abide by the laws of the United States. In most cases the cruise line employees are not trained or equipped to deal with such cases.
In the case of violence occurring, the first step to take would be to preserve the scene and document everything. This may include placing all clothing that was wore during the attack in a sealed plastic bag.
Also get names and addresses of any witnesses that may have seen or heard the assault. Have pictures taken of any injuries sustained and a thorough rape exam including blood samples should be taken. The FBI should be contacted by phone immediately for instructions on how everything should be collected and documented.
As soon as you reach port in the San Diego area you should immediately seek legal counsel. Only a qualified and well trained attorney specializing in such cases will know how to handle such a case. When seeking counsel you should look for someone with experience in these types of cases.
There are few things more devastating than being violated in such an intimate way. The right lawyer will be able to help you through this process as well as what steps to take to ensure that you receive fair compensation for injuries and suffering.
There is justice to be found and there is someone to fight for your rights and see that justice is served in your best interest.
Cruise ships and violence should never mix but in the event that it does happen it helps to know where to turn and who to go to get the help you need and deserve in your time of need. Contact a cruise ship violence attorney if you were the victim of cruise ship violence.
