Washington Passenger Sues Carnival Cruise Line Over Fall on Poorly Lit Theater Stairs Aboard Carnival Magic
A Washington resident has filed a maritime personal injury lawsuit in the Southern District of Florida against Carnival Corporation after a fall on unlit, handrail-free stairs in the Showtime Theater aboard the Carnival Magic. The complaint, filed May 12, 2025, is styled Glenn v. Carnival Corporation, Case No. 1:25-cv-22182-BB.
Fall on Poorly Lit, Handrail-Free Stairs in Showtime Theater on Carnival Magic
According to the complaint, the incident occurred on May 18, 2024, during a crowded comedy show in the Showtime Theater on Carnival Magic. With no seating available in the middle section, the passenger and her fiancée attempted to access a side section, where there were no handrails and the lighting was poor. Unable to safely navigate the stairs, she fell and fractured her hip, requiring surgical intervention.
Ongoing Injuries and Additional Surgery
Following hip surgery, the passenger relied heavily on her arms for mobility, which led to further complications, including significant breast pain and the breakdown of prior surgical sites. She ultimately required additional surgery for removal of a breast implant.
Lawsuit Alleges Negligent Design, Maintenance, and Failure to Warn
The lawsuit brings multiple counts of negligence, including:
- Failing to maintain theater steps to allow safe passenger movement;
- Failing to provide or warn about the lack of handrails and proper lighting;
- Failing to correct hazardous conditions and provide adequate staff training and monitoring;
- Failing to design and construct the theater stairs and handrails in accordance with industry safety standards.
The complaint further alleges Carnival had notice of similar prior incidents involving passengers falling under similar circumstances and failed to address known hazards.
Implications for Cruise Ship Theater Safety and Industry Standards
This lawsuit underscores the critical importance of safe design and maintenance of public areas, particularly in high-traffic venues like cruise ship theaters. The outcome may affect how cruise lines design and maintain stairways, implement safety protocols, and warn passengers about hazards in common areas.
Injured by Unsafe Cruise Ship Conditions?
If you or a loved one has been injured due to unsafe conditions aboard a cruise ship, you may be entitled to compensation under maritime law. Protect your rights—contact us today for a free consultation.
