Florida Man Sues MSC Cruises After Partition Wall Falls on Him During Disembarkation from MSC Seashore in Cozumel
Edward Quintero, a resident of Deltona, Florida, has filed a maritime personal injury lawsuit against MSC Cruises S.A. in the Southern District of Florida. The lawsuit, filed under Case No. 1:25-cv-23026-DPG, alleges that Quintero sustained serious injuries to his right shoulder and neck when an unsecured rolling partition wall fell on him and his wife as they attempted to disembark the MSC Seashore in Cozumel, Mexico on July 11, 2024.
Cruise Passenger Injured When Rolling Partition Wall Topples During Disembarkation on MSC Seashore in Mexico
According to the complaint, the incident occurred while Quintero and his wife were preparing to disembark the MSC Seashore at the aft gangway, where passengers were required to present their identification cards to crew members. During the process, one of the crew members allegedly bumped into a rolling partition wall that had been installed next to the checkpoint without any supports, braces, chains, or other safety measures. The wall toppled over, striking both Quintero and his wife. While his wife’s injuries were reportedly minor, Quintero’s shoulder was dislocated, and he sustained serious neck injuries that continue to affect him.
MSC Accused of Failing to Secure Hazardous Equipment Near Passenger Checkpoint on Cruise Ship
The lawsuit alleges that MSC Cruises negligently created and maintained an unreasonably dangerous condition by placing the rolling partition wall in a high-traffic disembarkation area without securing it. The complaint contends that the cruise line failed to use common-sense safety measures such as bracing, tethering, or warning signage, despite the predictable risk that someone could inadvertently bump the wall and cause it to fall. The wall allegedly lacked any stabilizing equipment or safety instructions, and the crew failed to warn passengers of the potential hazard, violating the cruise line’s duty to provide a safe environment in common areas of the ship.
Complaint Highlights MSC’s Negligence in Failing to Warn, Maintain, and Train Crew Near Gangway Exit Area
Quintero asserts that MSC had actual and constructive knowledge of the danger, as the wall’s placement in a crowded area where passengers and crew frequently moved created a foreseeable risk of injury. He also claims that MSC failed to properly train its staff to avoid contact with the partition or to inform passengers of its instability. The complaint outlines multiple breaches of duty, including the cruise line’s failure to secure the wall, failure to warn of its condition, and failure to supervise and instruct crew members appropriately at the disembarkation checkpoint.
Lawsuit Seeks Compensation for Permanent Injuries, Medical Expenses, and Lost Cruise Value from MSC Cruises
Quintero brings two counts against MSC Cruises S.A.—negligence and vicarious liability for the actions of its crew. He alleges that the injuries have caused him long-term pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of capacity to enjoy life. The lawsuit seeks damages in excess of $75,000 for medical expenses, loss of earnings, diminished earning capacity, and the lost value of his cruise. Quintero argues that his injuries are permanent and continuing, requiring future treatment and care.
Contact a Cruise Ship Injury Lawyer if You Were Hurt by Unsafe Conditions Aboard a Vessel
Passengers injured on cruise ships due to unsecured equipment or poorly maintained safety conditions may be entitled to compensation under federal maritime law. Cruise lines have a legal duty to ensure passenger safety, particularly in areas of high activity like gangways and disembarkation zones. If you or someone you love was injured by falling equipment, unstable barriers, or other hazards while on a cruise, our team of maritime injury attorneys can help you pursue your legal options.
Contact us now to speak with a cruise ship injury lawyer.
