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Celebrity Summit Passenger Files Lawsuit After Tripping in Dark Cabin Due to Power Outage and Lack of Emergency Lighting
Vicky Olson, a fare-paying passenger on the Celebrity Summit, has filed a federal lawsuit claiming she suffered serious injuries after tripping in her darkened cabin during a power outage. The complaint alleges Celebrity Cruises failed to maintain electrical power and did not provide a backup lighting source, causing the cabin to go completely dark. Olson was attempting to use the restroom when she tripped and fell face-first, suffering injuries to her face and head. She is seeking damages for medical costs, disfigurement, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Passenger Injured in Cabin Fall During Power Outage Sues Celebrity Cruises for Negligence
Case Title: Vicky Olson v. Celebrity Cruises, Inc.
Case Number: 1:25-cv-21504
Filing Date: April 1, 2025
Jurisdiction: U.S. District Court, Southern District of Florida (Miami Division)
Plaintiff: Vicky Olson, Minnesota resident
Defendant: Celebrity Cruises, Inc.
Vessel Involved: Celebrity Summit
Incident Date: April 13, 2024
Location of Incident: Passenger stateroom aboard Celebrity Summit
Complaint Claims Cruise Line Failed to Maintain Power or Warn of Risks of Cabin Darkness on Celebrity Summit
Negligence and Failure to Warn at Core of Lawsuit
The lawsuit includes two counts:
- Count I – Negligence: Alleging Celebrity failed to:
- Maintain electrical power in the cabin;
- Have response protocols for outages;
- Provide battery-operated lights or temporary lighting;
- Respond in a timely manner after power failure.
- Count II – Negligent Failure to Warn: Alleging Celebrity failed to:
- Warn passengers that no emergency light source was provided;
- Disclose the risk of cabin darkness in the event of a power failure;
- Act when the risk became known or foreseeable through prior occurrences.
Key Facts from the Complaint
- No battery-powered nightlight or backup source was provided in the cabin.
- The power outage occurred at night, leaving Olson in total darkness.
- Olson alleges she used due care but could not see, resulting in a trip and fall injury.
- She sustained permanent injuries including facial trauma, scarring, emotional distress, and a diminished ability to enjoy life.
What This Case Means for Cruise Lines’ Liability for Cabin Safety and Power Outages Under Maritime Law
Legal Questions Raised
This case raises important issues under maritime law, including:
- Is a cruise line liable for failing to provide emergency lighting in passenger cabins?
- Does a power outage constitute a foreseeable risk requiring precautionary measures?
- Should cruise lines warn passengers about the absence of battery-powered lights or safety protocols?
Olson’s lawsuit argues that power failures are not uncommon, and Celebrity should have anticipated the risk, especially during overnight hours.
Broader Implications for Cruise Ship Cabin Design and Risk Management
The case could affect how cruise lines approach:
- Emergency lighting requirements inside cabins
- Power backup systems for guest safety
- Onboard safety warnings related to power loss and nighttime movement
If successful, this case could lead to more stringent standards for stateroom safety features and influence how cruise lines prepare for and respond to in-cabin emergencies.
Injured in a Cruise Cabin Due to Unsafe Conditions or a Power Outage? Legal Help Is Available
Passengers have the right to expect a reasonably safe environment aboard cruise ships, including within their own cabins. If you’ve been injured due to lack of emergency lighting, power outages, or poor cabin design, you may have a valid claim under maritime law.
📞 Contact a cruise ship injury attorney today to learn your rights and explore options for financial recovery.