In the case of Price v. Carnival Cruise Lines, No. 20-cv-20621-BLOOM/Louis (S.D. Fla. 2020), the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida addressed the admissibility of expert testimony in a maritime personal injury lawsuit. The plaintiff retained Dr. John H. Shim as an expert witness to testify regarding the injuries sustained during a cruise. The court’s analysis provides insight into the role and evaluation of a Cruise Lines Expert Witness in such cases.
Case Background
The plaintiff initiated a maritime personal injury action against Carnival Cruise Lines, alleging injuries suffered on February 28, 2019, while aboard the M/V Carnival Valor. To support her claims, the plaintiff retained Dr. John H. Shim, an orthopedic surgeon, as an expert witness. Dr. Shim was expected to testify about the plaintiff’s injuries, his review of her medical records, diagnostic tests, findings, diagnosis, prognosis, the need for future medical treatment, and the associated costs. He was also anticipated to opine that the plaintiff sustained permanent injury as a result of the incident and that the medical services rendered were reasonable, necessary, and related to the incident.