Recent Blog Posts
Medical Malpractice on a Cruise
Medical errors can happen anywhere, including your next cruise. According to the American Academy of Emergency Physicians, there are certain guidelines for medical facilities aboard cruise ships. Sadly, some cruise lines fail to comply with these guidelines, employ foreign doctors who do not have the same level of training as doctors licensed in the… Read More »
Top Dangers for Miami Snorkelers
Snorkeling is one of Florida’s great aquatic pastimes, with thousands of Floridians and tourists taking to the open water each year. Like any other sporting activity, however, snorkeling carries certain risks. These are risks that the public and tourism companies, in particular, must keep in mind. At the office of Michael F. Guilford, P.A.,… Read More »
Cruise Ship Rape on the Rise
The nonprofit RAINN (“Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network”) reports that less than a third of all sexual assaults are reported to the police. Sadly, this is simply part of the unfortunate nature of such horrible crimes. Between the shame and fear that accompany rape and sexual assault, victims often contend with the fear… Read More »
3 Types of Death on the High Seas
When someone sets sail on a yacht or pleasure cruise, it can be an exciting adventure. No one ever hits the open sea with the expectation of not returning. Sadly, each year many passengers and crewmembers die while at sea. At our office, we know the heartbreaking reality that many families face when they… Read More »
Top 5 Reasons for Boat Fires
Each year, thousands of pleasure boats and commercial ships catch fire. Many of these go relatively unreported in the news. Unless someone is killed, or it is a famous mega yacht, it’s rare to hear about it. However, BoatUS has compiled a list of some of the most common reasons for boat fires in… Read More »
3 Things Not to Do if Injured on the Job at Sea
If you are a crew member or deckhand on a U.S. flagged vessel, or work for an owner or employer who is based in the United States, you have certain specific rights under federal maritime law. Under the Merchant Marine Act – or “Jones Act” as it is better known – seamen who are… Read More »
Pool Injuries on a Cruise
Today’s cruise ships are truly amazing. Many are equipped with multiple pools, spas, movie theaters, and even hospitals to treat injuries and emergency medical conditions that arise on board. Many of these injuries occur in or around pools and other swimming areas. But did you know that injured passengers have a right to be… Read More »
Fighting for Maintenance and Cure After a Work Injury at Sea
When a seaman is injured while working aboard a ship, he or she is entitled to compensation for those injuries. The Jones Act is a federal law that provides a system of compensation similar to that of a traditional workers’ compensation claim. However, there are distinct differences. At our Miami office we fight to… Read More »
Luxury Yacht Crashes and Injuries
According to Forbes, as of 2016 there were 4,476 superyachts in the world. These are defined as being at least 100 feet long. But these massive ships do not operate themselves. The vast majority of these vessels are operated year round, even at times when the owner may have no personal use for them…. Read More »
What You Should Know About Personal Watercraft Insurance
If you own a personal watercraft or any type of boat, you need insurance. Florida law doesn’t require you to carry insurance on your watercraft the same way it does your car, but this doesn’t mean you should forgo insurance for your boat. Here are some key considerations when shopping for boater insurance. What… Read More »
