Background

Federal Appeals Court Revives Lawsuit Against Royal Caribbean Over Toddler's Death

Background

In 2019, an 18-month-old granddaughter fell to her death out of an open window on Deck 11 of Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas cruise ship. The child's grandfather, who was with her at the time, filed a lawsuit against Royal Caribbean alleging negligence.

Negligence Allegations

The lawsuit alleges that Royal Caribbean was negligent in failing to provide adequate safety measures on Deck 11, including a railing in front of the window. The plaintiffs argue that a reasonable juror could find that Royal Caribbean added the rail after the child's death in an attempt to cover up its negligence.

Lower Court Ruling

A lower court had dismissed the lawsuit, but the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals has revived it, finding that a reasonable juror could find Royal Caribbean liable for negligence. The court noted that there was evidence that the window was not properly secured and that there was no railing in front of it.

Royal Caribbean's Response

Royal Caribbean has denied any wrongdoing in the child's death. The company has argued that the window was properly secured and that the child's grandfather was responsible for her safety. Royal Caribbean has also argued that the lawsuit is barred by the statute of limitations.

Implications

The 11th Circuit's ruling could have implications for future lawsuits against cruise lines. The ruling suggests that cruise lines may be liable for negligence if they fail to provide adequate safety measures on their ships.

Conclusion

The federal appeals court's decision to revive the lawsuit against Royal Caribbean is a significant development in the cruise industry. The ruling could lead to more lawsuits against cruise lines and could result in changes to the way cruise ships are designed and operated.