International maritime laws are designed to oversee international waters. Not only does it include specific regulations and treaties across marine organizations globally, but it also determines how people who suffer injuries ash see should be compensated for their damages whether they are involved in a work-related accident or due to another party’s negligence.
Here are some of the most notable details you should know if you have suffered critical injuries or illness on navigable waters worldwide.
Who Oversees International Maritime Laws?
The United Nations’ International Maritime Organization (IMO) is responsible for establishing and regulating international maritime laws. The IMO has created enforceable actions that can be taken by designated governing agencies that will be enforced when ships, boats, or other vessels are sailing in international waters.
You can click here to read more about how these international maritime laws could influence your ability to recover compensation for your suffering, whether you were injured in an accident aboard a cruise ship or due to a work-related naval accident.
When Are You in International Waters?
It is essential to understand which waters are considered international. Any waters that are outside of United States borders are considered international if they are not in the jurisdiction of a foreign country. Generally, when a vessel is sailing in international waters, the laws where the ship is registered will apply.
However, depending on the circumstances of your case, the nearest country’s maritime laws might be applicable. For example, if a ship is sailing in international waters but is registered in the Bahamas, Bahamas laws would apply. However, if a vessel registered in the Bahamas was sailing in the United States, then United States laws would apply.
Essential International Maritime Laws
The IMO has multiple laws that regulate maritime employee trading practices and qualifications, international labor laws, and marine safety. These include:
- The Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) for Seafarers Convention – This sets the bare minimum standards all crewmembers, security workers, shipmasters, captains, and other maritime employees must follow. These types of workers must undergo a similar training program so they can receive their international training certifications.
- Maritime Labor Convention (MLC) – The MLC is responsible for setting labor standards for crewmembers aboard any type of ship, boat, or vessel. It describes rules and regulations regarding career development, rest hours, compensation, leave entitlement, medical certification requirements, personal safety training requirements, and regulations regarding satisfactory living conditions.
- Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention – SOLAS applies strictly to ships that sail across international waters. SOLAS determines which types of equipment are necessary and required before a boat can sail, and sets specific safety standards, including safety drills, inspections, and required safety equipment.
How International Maritime Laws Could Influence Your Injury Settlement
These international maritime laws could have a substantial impact on your ability to access the compensation and benefits you are entitled to. With laws in place designed to oversee compliance, safety, and training standards, you may need the legal guidance and support of an experienced maritime injury lawyer. This could help you bring the liable party to justice or get the insurance company to compensate you fairly for your damages.
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