It is reported by several news agencies that one American woman is presently hospitalized while three other Americans have died from unknown causes while vacationing at the Sandals Emerald Bay resort on Great Exuma, Bahamas. The woman hospitalized has since been flown to South Florida for further care.
The cause of the deaths is still under investigation but it has been stated that there were no signs of trauma or foul play.
Our condolences to the families and loved ones of the individuals involved. Certainly, the issue of whether there was negligence on the part of Sandals will appropriately wait. However, when that day comes, any attorney seeking to assist must be familiar with the following arguments routinely raised by Sandals when suit is brought against them in the United States: (1) forum non conveniens, (2) forum selection clauses, and (3) lack of personal jurisdiction. These and more are the arguments presently being argued and litigated by the Brais Law Firm in an unrelated action filed against Sandals Resorts International in a wrongful death claim filed on behalf of the Estate of Diane Hendricks.
Notwithstanding Sandals’ position that it shouldn’t be sued here in Miami, see the photo below depicting a “Sandals” and “Beaches” building located at 4950 SW 72nd Ave., Miami, FL 33155. According to numerous news articles this is the location from which Sandals conducts its sales and marketing.
Sandals Miami Office
For an earlier opinion touching on some of these points, see our page describing a past victory against Sandals in Miami Federal Court.
Again, our condolences and sympathies go out to the family and loved ones of the individuals involved. Since this this claim involves jurisdictional issues, our suggestion to the families is to seek out a firm experienced with handling cases against this entity and the arguments it routinely raises.
