Nicaraguan Seafarer Sues Carnival in Miami After Chemical Exposure and Unsafe Work Conditions on Horizon
For Antonio Miguel Moses Garcia, a Galley Steward from Nicaragua, life aboard the Carnival Horizon turned into a nightmare. Hired to work in the ship’s galley, Garcia says he was forced to perform repetitive, physically grueling tasks—without proper protective gear—leading to severe injuries to his hands, wrists, and feet.
On March 4, 2025, Garcia filed a personal injury lawsuit against Carnival Corporation in Miami-Dade County Circuit Court, alleging multiple violations of maritime law, including Jones Act negligence, unseaworthiness, and failure to provide maintenance and cure.
Galley Steward from Nicaragua Alleges Career-Ending Injuries from Dangerous Working Conditions Aboard Carnival Horizon
- Date of Injury: February 16, 2024
- Vessel: M/V Carnival Horizon
- Role: Galley Steward
- Allegations:
- Exposed to harsh cleaning chemicals without gloves or boots
- Forced to wash heavy pots and pans due to staff shortages
- Suffered burn-like skin reactions, nerve pain, and ultimately, carpal tunnel syndrome
Garcia reported the injuries days later, and medical notes onboard confirmed his symptoms: deformed fingers, rashes, numbness, swelling, and depression linked to pain and overwork.
Despite escalating symptoms, Carnival allegedly failed to provide meaningful treatment or timely disembarkation. Garcia was finally sent home to Nicaragua on February 23, 2024, but didn’t receive a specialist evaluation until nearly two months later.
Legal Claims: A Complex Case Under the Jones Act and Maritime Law
Garcia’s lawsuit presents a powerful set of allegations across five legal counts:
1️⃣ Jones Act Negligence
Garcia claims Carnival:
- Assigned him dangerous, physically excessive tasks
- Failed to provide adequate protective equipment
- Ignored safety procedures and medical needs
2️⃣ Unseaworthiness
The ship and its equipment—including chemicals, medical staff, and work procedures—were allegedly unfit for their intended purpose, violating Carnival’s non-delegable duty to maintain a seaworthy vessel.
3️⃣ Failure to Provide Maintenance and Cure
Despite clear medical needs, Garcia says:
- Carnival failed to continue benefits after disembarkation
- Denied or delayed essential treatment and therapy
- Ceased payments before he reached Maximum Medical Cure (MMC)
4️⃣ Inadequate Medical Care (Shipboard & Shoreside)
The complaint details poor decision-making and delayed intervention by both onboard and shoreside physicians, exacerbating Garcia’s condition and prolonging recovery.
5️⃣ Permanent Disability & Career Loss
Garcia alleges his injuries have permanently ended his seafaring career, rendering him unable to pass medical exams or return to maritime work—causing substantial economic and emotional harm.
The Lasting Impact
Garcia’s symptoms include:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome, requiring surgery
- Chronic hand and foot pain
- Physical limitations affecting daily life
- Emotional distress from disability and career loss
Despite undergoing surgery in August 2024, Garcia’s pain continued, and subsequent physical therapy was insufficient. His condition remains unresolved as of the lawsuit filing.
Legal and Industry Implications
This case sheds light on the broader challenges faced by foreign crew members working aboard cruise ships:
- Long hours with insufficient staffing
- Poor enforcement of safety and protective protocols
- Medical neglect, especially once workers are disembarked
Under the Jones Act, cruise lines are required to:
- Provide a safe working environment
- Offer prompt and proper medical care
- Maintain “seaworthy” conditions, from equipment to staffing
If proven, Garcia’s claims could expose Carnival to significant financial liability—not only for damages, but also attorneys’ fees for bad-faith denial of maintenance and cure.
A Fight for Justice—and Dignity
Garcia’s story is not just a legal battle. It’s a glimpse into the difficult, and often dangerous, conditions that many seafarers face behind the polished image of luxury cruising. His case could set a precedent in holding cruise lines accountable for the rights and well-being of the people who keep their ships running.
📞 Call Today
If you are a crew member who has suffered an injury or been denied medical care aboard a cruise ship, speak to a maritime attorney immediately.
Under U.S. maritime law, you may be entitled to compensation, continued medical treatment, and back pay.
