Gangway Accidents
Gangway Accidents – Injuries During Boarding and Disembarkation
Cruise vacations are supposed to be smooth and luxurious from start to finish. But for many passengers, the most dangerous part of the trip happens before the ship even sails — or just after it docks. Gangway accidents, including falls, slips, and structural collapses, can result in serious injuries with long-term consequences. These incidents are often caused by cruise line negligence, poor maintenance, or unsafe boarding practices.
At Sher & Volk, P.A. we help passengers injured on gangways, ramps, or while transitioning between the cruise ship and the terminal recover compensation. Boarding and disembarkation zones are legally considered part of the vessel, which means maritime law protections often apply.
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What Is a Gangway — and Why Is It Dangerous?
A gangway is the narrow ramp or bridge connecting the cruise ship to the port terminal. It may be made of metal, plastic, or composite materials, and it is often temporary and adjustable to accommodate tide levels or ship height. Hazards arise when:
• The gangway is slick from water or oil
• Handrails are missing, broken, or too low
• Crew fail to assist elderly or disabled passengers
• The ramp is uneven or shifts unexpectedly
• It collapses due to improper securing or weight limits
Many cruise passengers assume this part of the experience is routine — but poor oversight during boarding or disembarkation can lead to broken bones, head trauma, and serious spinal injuries.
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Common Injuries in Gangway Accidents
• Broken wrists, arms, or hips from falls
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries from abrupt drops or twists
• Lacerations or abrasions from jagged edges
• Shoulder and back injuries from sudden jolts
Elderly passengers and those with mobility issues are particularly vulnerable. Even a minor misstep or an unassisted descent can turn into a life-altering injury.
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Who Is Liable for a Gangway Accident?
Cruise lines and other types of vessel owners are generally responsible for providing a safe means of boarding and disembarking. They may be held liable if:
• The gangway was improperly installed or maintained
• There was a failure to assist or supervise passengers
• There were no warnings or signage about shifting ramps
• The area was wet, slippery, or obstructed
Port authorities, maintenance contractors, and security companies may also share responsibility, depending on who controlled the area at the time.
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Hypothetical Case Illustration: Collapsing Gangway Ramp
Imagine a fictional example: A 72-year-old passenger disembarking a cruise in the Bahamas steps onto the gangway, which suddenly gives way due to a mechanical failure. She falls six feet, fracturing her pelvis and requiring surgery. Cruise staff had received complaints about the ramp's instability the day prior, but no repairs were made.
In this scenario, the cruise line could be held liable under maritime law for failing to address known safety hazards. The fact that the injury occurred during disembarkation would likely place it within the court’s maritime jurisdiction.
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Additional Hypothetical Case: Shifting Ramp in Poor Weather
Consider another fictional scenario: During heavy rain and high tide at a Caribbean port, a cruise line adjusts its gangway for passenger reboarding. The crew fails to properly lock the adjustable platform, and it shifts mid-step. A middle-aged passenger with knee issues stumbles, falling hard onto the metal edge and fracturing her arm.
In this example, a court could find the cruise line negligent for failing to account for weather-related gangway risks and for inadequate crew training in gangway adjustments. It underscores the responsibility of cruise lines to ensure equipment is both weather-compliant and safely operated.
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What To Do If You Were Hurt on a Gangway
1. Report the incident immediately to cruise staff or terminal security
2. Request a written report and photograph the scene if possible
3. Get medical attention, both onboard and onshore
4. Avoid signing any waivers or release documents
5. Contact Sher & Volk, P.A. upon returning home — strict time limits apply for cruise ship claims
Even if you are already back home, we can gather evidence, interview witnesses, and pursue your claim in the appropriate court.
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Legal Challenges in Gangway Cases
Gangway injury claims are often complicated by:
• Unclear jurisdiction (cruise line vs. port authority)
• Maritime law versus local premises liability
• Surveillance footage disappearing quickly
• Conflicting witness accounts
• Crew records and training documents not being preserved
We navigate these issues with detailed investigation, subpoenaed maintenance logs, and prompt preservation of evidence. We also work to identify if cruise lines failed to comply with accessibility standards under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), especially where mobility assistance was denied or failed.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the cruise line always liable for gangway injuries?
Not always — but if the cruise line controlled the area or failed to supervise the transition, they may be liable under maritime law.
What if the gangway was operated by the port authority?
We investigate which party had control at the time. Even if the port authority was involved, the cruise line may share liability.
Can I sue if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Maritime law allows for pure comparative fault — your damages may be reduced but not eliminated.
Is there a time limit to file a claim?
Yes. Most cruise tickets require written notice within 6 months and a lawsuit within 1 year. Early action is critical.
Will I have to come back to Miami to sue?
Not necessarily. We can handle the process remotely and file in federal court here on your behalf.
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Talk to a Gangway Accident Lawyer Today
Gangway accidents are serious, preventable injuries that occur at one of the most overlooked points in a cruise. Don’t assume the cruise line is off the hook just because the injury happened during boarding or disembarkation.
Contact Sher & Volk, P.A. for a free consultation. We’ll explain your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve under maritime law — from wherever you are in the world.
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