On February 21, 2013 in Mobile, Alabama, an engine fire caused a Carnival cruise ship in the Gulf of Mexico to be without any method of propulsion for days as the ship was towed into Mobile port. More than 3,000 passengers and 1,000 crew members were aboard at the time of the incident, according to the Los Angeles Times.

Accident Leaves Thousands Stranded

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An engine fire was apparently responsible for the stranding of the Carnival Triumph in the Gulf of Mexico. The cruise line, known for its fun and family-friendly outings, sent the ship out with about 3,000 passengers as usual.

However, the fire caused a loss of power in the ship that left it foundering in the Gulf and required three tug boats to bring it in to port in Mobile.

Many of the bathrooms, elevators and kitchen areas were disabled by the fire. Passengers suffered from lack of food and water as well as few working sanitation facilities as the ship was towed into port.

Carnival Takes Action On Behalf of Passengers

Carnival Cruise Lines has announced that it intends to refund all passengers for the cruise fare, the transportation costs and the other expenses related to their trips. Currently, 14 Triumph sailings through April have been cancelled while the ship is repaired.

Carnival also plans to compensate each passenger an addition $500 for their inconvenience and trouble during the trip.

The stock for Carnival Corp., the cruise line’s parent company, is estimated to drop $.08 to $.10 during the first half of the year due to costs associated with the accident. Stockbrokers are already seeing a decline in the company’s stock as worried investors pull out, leaving questions about how badly the incident will hurt the cruise line company.

What Should I Do If I Am Involved In A Cruise Line Accident?

Thousands of people each year take cruises as part of their vacation plans. Children and adults alike enjoy the freedom of cruising with its free food and planned activities and excursions to exotic locales. However, and accident on a cruise ship can quickly lead to pain and suffering as well as possible physical injuries.

If you are injured while on a cruise, it is likely that the company will approach you with a quick settlement offer as Carnival is attempting to do with the Triumph passengers. The company’s compensation will usually include a refund of the cruise price as well as your costs to travel and some cash compensation. However, this amount may not be reflective of the true value of your case.

Cruise line injuries might include slip-and-fall injuries or other physical harms suffered due to crew negligence or other problems. If you are injured while on a cruise ship or while on one of the ship’s scheduled outings, you may be entitled to more compensation than the cruise line offers.

A personal injury attorney can help you determine the true value of your case. Before you sign any releases or accept any money, it is important to talk to a personal injury lawyer about your case.