Louisiana Passenger Sues Carnival Cruise Line After Tripping on Showroom Prop Aboard Carnival Celebration
Cruise Passenger Alleges Injury After Tripping on Stage Prop in Carnival Celebration Showroom
A negligence lawsuit was filed in the Southern District of Florida under Marilynn Perry v. Carnival Corporation (Case No. 1:25-cv-21279), following an incident aboard the Carnival Celebration. Plaintiff Marilynn Perry, a resident of Louisiana, claims she suffered serious injuries after tripping over a stage prop in one of the ship’s showrooms on November 22, 2023.
The incident occurred after a performance when Perry entered the showroom to take photos. She alleges that Carnival Cruise Line failed to remove all props from the floor after the show, creating a dangerous tripping hazard that directly caused her fall.
Carnival Cruise Line Accused of Failing to Remove Trip Hazard in Cruise Ship Showroom
The lawsuit asserts that Carnival Cruise Line breached its duty of care by:
- Leaving a stage prop on the floor after the conclusion of a performance.
- Failing to inspect and clear the area, knowing that passengers often visit the stage post-show to take photos.
- Failing to implement adequate safety protocols, such as barriers or crew supervision during post-show access.
Perry argues that the hazard was not open and obvious and that Carnival either knew or should have known of the danger, especially given the predictable behavior of cruise guests in entertainment areas.
Legal Claims Highlight Cruise Line Negligence and Lack of Safety Procedures
Under general maritime law, Carnival Cruise Line owes passengers a duty of “reasonable care under the circumstances.” The complaint outlines key elements of negligence:
- Constructive Notice: Carnival is alleged to have constructive knowledge of the risk, given that its crew routinely works in performance areas and should be trained to clear or secure props.
- Foreseeability: Perry’s attorneys argue that Carnival should have foreseen passenger activity in the area and taken steps to secure the space accordingly.
- Injury Damages: The complaint states that Perry suffered bodily harm, aggravation of a pre-existing condition, loss of earnings, and ongoing pain and disability.
Passenger Injury on Carnival Celebration Adds to Ongoing Cruise Ship Liability Lawsuits
This case contributes to a growing body of lawsuits targeting trip-and-fall and slip-and-fall injuries aboard cruise ships, especially in entertainment venues and public areas.
Increased passenger traffic in showrooms, theaters, and open-deck spaces has led to greater scrutiny of cruise lines’ inspection procedures, post-event cleanup protocols, and hazard warnings. This lawsuit could prompt Carnival and other major cruise operators to:
- Enhance post-performance safety checks
- Train staff on rapid hazard removal
- Restrict access to performance areas until they are verified safe
Similar lawsuits have already pushed courts to examine how cruise lines handle “foreseeable” passenger movement in the aftermath of shows and events.
Injured in a Cruise Ship Accident? Know Your Rights Under Maritime Law
If you’ve been injured on a cruise due to unsafe conditions or crew negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact an experienced maritime injury attorney to understand your rights and explore your legal options.
