Maritime law, also called admiralty law, governs activities on navigable waters. Most often, this law applies to oceans, seas, and large lakes. However, rivers sometimes fall under its jurisdiction as well. Businesses operating along the rivers must understand whether their operations might involve maritime law. Navigability and maritime law The concept of navigability determines whether a river falls under maritime… The post Are rivers under maritime law in Texas? first appeared on Mills Shirley LLP ..read more

Working on a boat requires adherence to various regulations, including prescription medication-related laws. Failing to declare your medication when authorities conduct a stop can lead to serious consequences. When authorities stop a boat, their inspection may include verifying any prescription drugs you have on board. Failure to declare your prescription medications can raise suspicions and may lead to legal trouble… The post Must you declare prescription medicine while working on a boat? first appeared on Mills Shirley LLP ..read more

Texas has a rich history of shipwrecks. Salvaging shipwrecks that contain hazardous materials presents legal challenges. You must comply with state and federal laws to avoid fines and legal disputes. Ownership disputes Abandoned ships often have unclear ownership. You must navigate federal, state, and maritime law to determine the owner of a shipwreck. Identifying the responsible party ensures accountability for cleanup and adherence to safety regulations. Legal battles over ownership can delay the salvage process, increase costs, and create legal issues. Environmental and economic concerns Sh ..read more

Determining fault in a maritime collision involves several steps and can be complex, and various factors play a crucial role. For anyone working in the maritime industry, it is important to understand how the authorities determine fault in the event of an accident.  Investigating the collision The first step in determining fault is a thorough investigation. Authorities examine the collision scene, collect evidence, and interview witnesses. This investigation helps establish the circumstances leading to the collision. Applying navigation rules Maritime navigation rules, also known as the ..read more

Getting injured while working on a maritime vessel can be a challenging experience. Knowing the right steps to take can ensure you receive the necessary care and protect your rights. Seek immediate medical attention The first and most crucial step is to seek medical attention immediately. Prompt medical evaluation can prevent complications and document the extent of your injuries. Report and document the injury Notify the authority on the vessel as soon as possible to create an official record of the incident. Ensure you provide all relevant details about how the injury occurred and any contri ..read more

The Jones Act, a federal law enacted in 1920, has had a significant impact on American jobs, particularly in the maritime industry. This legislation requires all goods transported by water between U.S. ports to be carried on ships that are built, owned and operated by American citizens or permanent residents. While the act aims to support the domestic maritime industry, its effects on job creation and the economy are subject to debate. Positive effects on American jobs The Jones Act maintains a strong domestic maritime industry. It creates job opportunities for American workers because it mand ..read more

The Jones Act is important to the realm of maritime commerce within the United States. This legislation, formally known as the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, regulates maritime trade and protects the interests of American shipping. Purpose of the Jones Act According to the American Maritime Partnership, there are 40,000 Jones Act vessels operating in domestic trade. The primary aim of the Jones Act is to promote and maintain a strong domestic maritime industry. It requires that American citizens or permanent residents build, own and operate all vessels that transport goods between U.S. ports. Th ..read more

Admiralty law governs the discovery and salvage of shipwrecks. The excitement surrounding the uncovering of a sunken ship is not just about adventure; it is also about navigating the legal framework that decides who can claim ownership of the wreck and its treasures. Admiralty law protects the interests of those who find shipwrecks while ensuring the recovery process respects historical and archaeological values. The legal framework for shipwrecks The principles that surround shipwrecks are complex and vary across jurisdictions. Generally, admiralty law distinguishes between abandoned shipwrec ..read more

Disputes arising over unpaid debts can lead to maritime liens against a vessel. There are a few ways authorities could seize a vessel in this type of situation. One method is the use of in rem proceedings. In rem proceedings are legal actions taken against a vessel rather than its owner. Use of in rem If a vessel owner has unpaid debts, the creditor could go after their ship.  In rem proceedings allow creditors who hold a lien to seize the vessel and hold it until the owner satisfies the debt. This is a unique approach applicable to the maritime industry. Vessels can change ownership freq ..read more

The vast expanse of the world’s oceans has long been an important conduit for global trade. As maritime vessels ferry goods across these waters, the risk of damaged cargo is an inevitable challenge. Understanding how to handle claims for damaged cargo is integral to maintaining the smooth flow of international trade. Assessing the damage When cargo arrives at its destination in less than optimal condition, it is important to initiate a meticulous assessment. The first step is to document the damages comprehensively. This involves noting any visible signs of harm, from dents to water damage. A ..read more