A seaman has filed a lawsuit against a cruise operator, alleging negligence and failure to provide adequate medical care following an on-board accident. Maria Steven, through her attorney John F. Billera of Billera Law, filed the complaint in the Circuit Court of the 15th Judicial Circuit in Palm Beach County, Florida on October 10, 2025, against Classica Cruise Operator, Ltd.
The case revolves around an incident that occurred on August 1, 2023, when Maria Steven was employed as a security guard aboard the M/V Margaritaville at Sea Paradise. While performing her duties, she slipped and fell on a slippery substance on a crew-only stairway. The complaint alleges that the dangerous condition was caused by another crewmember and that Classica Cruise Operator is vicariously liable for their negligent acts. Furthermore, it claims that the stairs were unreasonably dangerous due to wear and lack of non-skid measures. As a result of the fall, Steven suffered severe injuries including a tri-malleolar fracture to her left ankle and subsequent complications such as osteomyelitis and kidney issues.
The lawsuit accuses Classica Cruise Operator of multiple counts of negligence under the Jones Act. It argues that the company failed to provide a safe working environment by not addressing known hazards like slippery stairs and failing to implement safety measures based on ergonomic studies. Additionally, it criticizes the cruise operator for inadequate medical response post-accident; despite being diagnosed with serious injuries at St. Mary’s Medical Center days after her fall, Steven allegedly did not receive proper follow-up care or timely medical intervention from the ship’s infirmary.
Maria Steven seeks damages exceeding jurisdictional limits for physical pain, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, disability, disfigurement, inconvenience, aggravation of pre-existing conditions, incurred medical expenses, lost wages and impaired working ability. She also demands maintenance and cure compensation as required under maritime law for seamen injured while serving on vessels.
Represented by John F. Billera from Billera Law in Boca Raton, Florida (Case ID: 502025CA010492XXXAMB), Maria Steven requests judgment against Classica Cruise Operator for all allowable damages under General Maritime Law along with interest and attorney fees.
Source: 502025CA010492XXXAMB_Maria_Steven_v_Classica_Cruise_Complaint_Palm_Beach_County_Florida.pdf
