Florida Passenger Sues Royal Caribbean Over Defective Handrail and Dangerous Staircase on Freedom of the Seas
A Florida woman has filed a maritime personal injury lawsuit in the Southern District of Florida against Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. after she suffered severe injuries from a fall caused by a defective handrail and dangerous staircase conditions aboard the Freedom of the Seas. The case is styled Sophye Fahrer v. Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., Case No. 1:25-cv-22180-KMW, and was filed on May 12, 2025.
Passenger Injured by Defective Handrail and Poor Lighting Near Studio B on Freedom of the Seas
According to the complaint, on May 18, 2024, Florida resident Sophye Fahrer was a fare-paying passenger aboard the Freedom of the Seas when she fell and sustained serious injuries on a staircase leading to Studio B, which had been converted into a makeshift nightclub. The lawsuit alleges that Royal Caribbean’s crew allowed passengers to use the staircase even though it was dangerously steep, poorly lit, filled with strobe lights and smoke, and had a handrail that was wobbly, defective, and improperly secured.
Fahrer claims that as she descended the staircase at around 11:00 pm, the handrail gave way, causing her to tumble down the steps. She suffered a concussion, orthopedic injuries, cuts, contusions, depression, and an aggravation of pre-existing medical conditions, including postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) and migraines. Her injuries required surgery on her left ankle and ongoing medical care.
Lawsuit Alleges Royal Caribbean Ignored Repeated Warnings About Dangerous Conditions
The complaint asserts that multiple Royal Caribbean crew members were aware of the dangerous handrail and staircase conditions. After the incident, a crew member reportedly told Fahrer, “I have been telling them to fix that handrail.” Another crew member pointed out loose screws on the floor. The lawsuit further alleges that Royal Caribbean had prior notice of similar incidents involving defective handrails and dangerous stairways on its ships but failed to remedy the hazardous conditions or restrict passenger access.
The lawsuit also claims that Royal Caribbean failed to provide adequate medical care after the fall. The ship’s medical staff allegedly did not properly treat Fahrer’s head and ankle injuries, failed to recommend diagnostic imaging, and allowed an improper medical examination by a security officer outside the medical facility.
Negligence Claims Against Royal Caribbean for Defective Handrail, Staircase, and Inadequate Crew Training
The complaint alleges multiple counts of negligence, including:
- Allowing passenger use of a staircase with a defective handrail, steep steps, low lighting, and hazardous nightclub effects;
- Failing to warn of or repair the dangerous conditions;
- Failing to follow and enforce safety protocols, including proper inspection, maintenance, and timely repairs;
- Failing to block or restrict access to unsafe areas;
- Failing to properly train crew responsible for the area;
- Failing to provide adequate medical care after the incident.
Fahrer seeks damages for her severe and permanent injuries, pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, loss of earnings, and both past and future medical expenses. She also claims loss of the benefit of her vacation and cruise.
Industry Implications: Cruise Ship Staircase Safety and Passenger Injury Risk
This case highlights the ongoing risks associated with cruise ship nightclub conversions and the use of special effects like strobe lights and smoke, particularly when basic safety features such as secure handrails and adequate lighting are neglected. The outcome may influence industry-wide standards for maintaining, inspecting, and promptly repairing handrails and staircases, as well as crew training and passenger safety protocols during on-board events.
Injured by Unsafe Conditions on a Cruise Ship?
If you or a loved one has been injured due to defective equipment or dangerous conditions aboard a cruise ship, you may be entitled to compensation under maritime law. Protect your rights—contact us today for a free consultation.
