A federal jury in South Florida has ordered Carnival Cruise Line to pay $300,000 in damages to a former passenger. The jury found the cruise line negligent for overserving alcohol to the woman, identified as Samantha Williams, before she fell down a flight of stairs and was injured.
The incident occurred aboard the Carnival Sunrise in March 2022. According to court documents and reports, Williams was served more than a dozen shots of tequila by bartenders who continued to serve her despite visible signs of intoxication. She subsequently fell on a stairwell, suffering a traumatic brain injury and other harm.
The verdict, delivered in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida, concluded that Carnival breached its duty of care. The $300,000 award is intended to compensate Williams for her medical expenses, pain, suffering, and lost wages. Carnival has not publicly commented on the verdict or indicated if it will appeal.
This case highlights the legal liability cruise lines and other hospitality businesses face regarding responsible alcohol service. Maritime law imposes a duty on carriers to ensure passenger safety, which includes monitoring alcohol consumption.
