A recent college graduate has filed a lawsuit after losing both legs in what she describes as a devastating ferry propeller accident during a graduation trip to the Bahamas.
According to Yahoo! News, 22-year-old Hannah Smith alleges the incident occurred during an excursion to Pearl Island Beach aboard a Catamaran Ferry connected to a Carnival Cruise Line trip. The lawsuit claims that employees of Sun Cay provided tourists with free alcoholic drinks while boarding the ferry. It further alleges that drinks continued to be offered throughout the excursion and that employees encouraged marijuana use among passengers.
Engine Allegedly Turned On While She Was in Water
Smith states in the complaint that she needed to relieve herself during the trip.
According to the lawsuit, employees allegedly told her she could urinate in the waters surrounding the boat because the engine was off. While holding onto the boat’s railing in the water, Smith claims the engine was turned on.
The ferry’s propeller struck her legs as she attempted to reboard. The complaint states that she lost more than 60 percent of her blood at the scene.
Medical Emergency and Lawsuit
Smith was transported to a local hospital in the Bahamas before being airlifted to a medical facility in Miami for further treatment.
Despite efforts by doctors, both of her legs could not be saved.
The lawsuit alleges negligence and unsafe conditions contributed to the incident. No public response from the cruise line or excursion operator has been detailed in reports so far.
The case is expected to move forward as Smith seeks accountability for the injuries she sustained during what was intended to be a celebratory trip.