People often assume that violent crimes, including sexual assault and rape, are not a problem aboard cruise ships, yet statistics disagree. In fact, it is scarily more common than many know. So common, in fact, that rape and sexual assault are the two most common kinds of crimes that take place at sea. Unfortunately, cruise ships often keep these traumatic and life-changing events in the dark from the general public.
About Cruise Ship Sexual Assault
Cruise lines are now required to report all crimes to the Department of Transportation. The number of reported sexual assaults on cruise ships jumped 550% in the first six months of 2016 from 6 to 39. These statistics just account for the ones reported since many times victims are persuaded to not file a report. Even a recent Senate report agreed that these statistics are just a fragment of this common crime.
Lack of Security
Although cruise ships do have some employees trained in security measures, there are no police officers on board. Also, there aren’t enough security personnel on the ship to handle the thousands of passengers. This coupled with an ability to access unlimited alcoholic beverages, lowers passenger inhibitions to protect themselves against criminal activities.
Problematic Cruise Ship Rape and Sexual Assault Investigations
Investigations into cruise ship rape and sexual assaults are more challenging, especially without onboard law enforcement authorities. It can take days to the next port for an officer to come on board. This gives the cruise lines lots of time to sway a victim to recant or other employable measures to protect themselves from potential lawsuits. Critical prosecution evidence is often lost.
Important Steps after a Cruise Ship Sexual Assault
The first thing is to seek medical attention. It is important to treat any possible injuries along with collecting DNA evidence. Avoid showering, changing clothes or cleaning the assault area. If the cruise ship sexual assault happened outside the U.S., the nearest embassy or consulate can help. Consular officers are available 24/7. However, they do not provide direct legal counsel.
If you want to report the crime, you should contact either the FBI or U.S. Coast Guard. Also, you can report the crime to the Department of Transportation. However, since none of these are legal options, it is imperative to contact an attorney like the knowledgeable staff at The Michael Brady Lynch Firm to receive civil justice for your injuries.
We Can Help
At The Michael Brady Lynch Firm, our lawyers have decades of experience helping injured people get justice and full compensation for injuries caused negligence. Given that lawsuits against cruise ships are in a venue favorable to the cruise lines, it is incredibly important to have an experienced attorney with ample resources to prosecute your claim. The Michel Brady Lynch Firm regularly takes on the largest corporations in the world with a track record of proven success and results. Contact The Michael Brady Lynch Firm today, and our attorneys will review your case for free and help you protect your rights. For your complimentary consultation, call our office now.