David Packan, Jr., a Florida resident, has filed a maritime personal injury lawsuit against Margaritaville at Sea, LLC in the Middle District of Florida. The complaint, filed under Case No. 6:25-cv-01317-PGB-LHP, alleges that Packan sustained serious back injuries after slipping and falling on a set of steep, unsafe stairs aboard the Margaritaville at Sea Islander while rushing to disembark for a shore excursion on March 14, 2025.
According to the lawsuit, Packan was late for a scheduled shore excursion in Progreso, Mexico, and was being escorted by a Margaritaville crew member who allegedly rushed him down the stairs at an unsafe pace. While descending the staircase, Packan slipped and fell due to a combination of the crew member’s hurried guidance and dangerous conditions on the stairs. The complaint claims that no warning signs were posted to alert passengers to proceed with caution.
The lawsuit highlights design defects and unsafe conditions, including insufficient rise and tread depth, slippery surfaces, a single handrail instead of two, and uneven metal nosing on the stairs. Packan alleges that these deficiencies made it impossible to safely descend while being hurried by the crew.
The complaint asserts that Margaritaville at Sea failed to design, maintain, and inspect its stairways according to reasonable safety standards, including OSHA and IRC guidelines. Packan claims that the cruise line knew or should have known of the hazards presented by the defective stairs but failed to address them or provide proper warnings.
Additionally, Packan alleges that the crew member escorting him was improperly trained, creating an unsafe environment by rushing passengers through hazardous areas. The lawsuit states that proper training and supervision would have prevented the incident.
As a result of the fall, Packan suffered a severe back injury, leading to significant pain, disability, mental anguish, and loss of enjoyment of life. He claims these injuries are permanent and will require ongoing medical treatment and physical therapy. The lawsuit seeks damages for past and future medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other losses.
Cruise passengers who are injured due to unsafe stairways, slippery surfaces, or negligent crew practices may be entitled to compensation under maritime law. Cruise lines like Margaritaville at Sea must ensure that all walkways, including stairs, are designed, maintained, and supervised to prevent foreseeable injuries. If you or a loved one was injured aboard a cruise ship due to hazardous conditions, our experienced maritime injury attorneys are ready to help.
Contact us now to speak with a cruise ship slip and fall lawyer.