Florida Passenger Sues Royal Caribbean After Slip and Fall on Pool Deck of Allure of the Seas
Miguel Chacon, a Florida resident and paying passenger aboard the Allure of the Seas, has filed a maritime personal injury lawsuit against Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. in the Southern District of Florida. The complaint, filed under Case No. 1:25cv22401, alleges that Royal Caribbean negligently failed to maintain safe conditions on the ship’s pool deck, resulting in Chacon slipping and falling on July 28, 2024, while the vessel was in navigable waters.
Cruise Line Passenger Alleges Dangerous Pool Deck Surface Lacked Warnings or Safety Features
According to the lawsuit, Chacon was walking on the pool deck of the Allure of the Seas when he encountered an unreasonably wet and slippery surface that caused him to fall and suffer serious injuries. He claims there were no wet floor signs or visible warnings in the area, and that the hazardous surface was not apparent to passengers. The complaint details how the slippery deck presented a hidden danger not obvious to those walking in the area, especially in a high-traffic zone regularly used by passengers.
The pool deck allegedly lacked non-slip surfaces, adequate maintenance, and safety protocols, including the absence of slip-resistant materials, mats, or floor markings. The plaintiff further asserts that Royal Caribbean had prior knowledge—either actual or constructive—of similar slip-and-fall incidents on the same or similar pool deck areas across its fleet, yet failed to take remedial measures.
Lawsuit Claims Royal Caribbean Failed to Inspect, Maintain, and Warn About Hazardous Deck Condition
The complaint outlines more than twenty allegations of negligence against Royal Caribbean, including failure to inspect the area, failure to install or maintain non-slip surfaces, and failure to warn passengers about the slipping hazard. Chacon contends that Royal Caribbean breached its duty of reasonable care by not implementing proper safety measures in an area where guests were expected to walk in wet conditions. He also argues that the cruise line failed to properly enforce its Safety Management System under the International Safety Management (ISM) Code.
The lawsuit includes two counts: general negligence and negligent failure to warn. Chacon claims that his injuries were foreseeable and preventable had the cruise line taken reasonable steps to mitigate the known risks of a slick pool deck. He further alleges his fall could have been avoided if Royal Caribbean had properly warned him about the condition, closed off the area, or conducted routine inspections.
Plaintiff Seeks Compensation for Medical Expenses, Pain, Emotional Distress, and Lost Vacation
As a result of the incident, Chacon asserts he suffered significant bodily injuries, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, and post-traumatic stress. He is also seeking damages for medical expenses and cruise costs, noting that the injuries are permanent or continuing in nature. He anticipates that discovery will uncover similar past incidents, reinforcing his claim that the cruise line had notice of the risk.
Contact a Cruise Ship Slip and Fall Lawyer Today if You Were Injured on a Wet or Slippery Deck
Cruise passengers injured by unsafe walking surfaces aboard ships, including pool decks, may be entitled to recover damages under maritime law. Cruise lines are responsible for maintaining safe conditions and warning of hidden hazards. If you or a loved one has suffered an injury while aboard a cruise vessel due to slippery surfaces or inadequate warnings, contact us today to speak with an experienced maritime attorney and learn more about your rights.
