A Miami-based federal jury has prescribed that Royal Caribbean Cruises owes the family of a passenger who died on a cruise $3.38 million. The passenger is said to have died during an Alaskan cruise.
The records presented before the court show that in 2016 the passenger, Richard Puchalski, and his family were on the Explorer of the Seas. Puchalski, who was on the cruise to celebrate his 70th birthday, visited the onboard infirmary with complaints of shortness of breath. He was treated and sent back to his cabin but he collapsed shortly afterward.
The civil complaint went on to blame the medical team at the infirmary for errors that led to the passenger’s death. The jury said the Royal Caribbean was 70% at fault and therefore slammed a fine of $34,000 in medical expenses and another $4.8 million for pain, suffering, and loss of companionship.
Representatives of the company have however said they plan to contest the decision respectfully. They have said they are presently considering their legal options will appeal the decision shortly.