Carnival Crew Served 14 Shots Before Woman's Fall

A Florida jury has ordered Carnival Cruise Line to pay $300,000 to a Sacramento woman who sustained severe injuries after allegedly being served 14 tequila shots. The incident occurred in January 2026 aboard the Carnival Radiance, where the plaintiff claims crewmembers over-served her alcohol over an eight-hour period, leading to a fall down a stairwell.

The lawsuit detailed that due to her inebriated state, the woman suffered a severe fall, waking up at the bottom of a crew-only stairwell with head injuries and unexplained bruises. She reported receiving conflicting information and feeling treated like a criminal by the crew. The absence of security footage showing the incident fueled her decision to file suit.

Attorneys noted that cruise lines have a responsibility for passenger well-being and cannot over-serve alcohol, even in international waters, as they conduct business from specific ports. The jury found Carnival 60% liable for failing to exercise reasonable care, while the woman was deemed 40% negligent for her consumption.

Carnival representatives have stated their disagreement with the verdict and plan to pursue an appeal and a new trial. The case highlights concerns about passenger safety and the potential for overconsumption associated with all-inclusive drink packages on cruise ships.