Successful Defense in Cruise Ship Passenger Injury Case

Andrew Craven, Elisha Sullivan, and Gina Sabatino obtained a favorable verdict on behalf of Chartwell’s client, a major cruise line, in a case involving a passenger who claimed significant injuries, including temporary paralysis, after falling from a reclining chair. The injuries allegedly resulted in fractures to her cervical spine and necessitated a medical evacuation. The defense argued that the client was not negligent, the chair was safe, and the plaintiff was responsible for her own injuries.

The plaintiff sought $9,286,000 in damages. After a seven-day trial, the jury awarded a significantly lower amount than what the plaintiff requested, finding that the client was only 12% responsible, while the plaintiff was 88% comparatively negligent. This outcome was highly favorable for the client.