What is maritime law?

Maritime law is a set of legal principles and statutes designed to regulate activity and issues related to maritime activity around the world. In Washington, maritime law is governed by federal and state laws, both of which apply to activity in all US coastal and offshore waters. Maritime laws in Washington serve to protect ships and seamen, regulate the payment of seamen’s wages, govern marine insurance and provide legal remedies for those injured in maritime accidents. Maritime law also safeguard ships and other property related to the maritime industry. This includes the law of salvage, which deals with the salvage of property and goods which are lost in the ocean, as well as the responsibility of vessel owners when a ship is damaged, wrecked or sunk. Maritime law also regulates the rights and obligations of owners of vessels and other objects used in maritime activities and the rights of people who make use of those vessels. The purpose of maritime law is to create a framework of rules and regulations to ensure that maritime activities are conducted safely and in an environmentally responsible manner. Maritime laws allow for the protection of navigational and marine resources, such as fishing and shipping lanes, as well as the protection of the rights of those involved in sea commerce, such as shipowners and sailors. Maritime law also allows for the enforcement of contracts between parties related to maritime activity.

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What is maritime law?

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