What are the main principles of maritime law?

Maritime law, also known as admiralty law, is a body of law that covers activities that occur on or around the water. In Minnesota, it governs the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved in the use of waterways for navigation, fishing, recreational activities, commerce, and other activities. Maritime law in Minnesota includes principles such as limitation of liability, protection of navigable waterways, navigational safety, and marine pollution. Limitation of liability is the principle that states that the liability of marine accidents is limited to the value of the ship and its cargo. This means that the owner of the vessel is only liable up to the value of the vessel, its content, and the goods carried, not the entire amount of any damages caused. The protection of navigable waterways principle states that the use of waterways should be limited to those activities that are lawful and don’t pose any danger to life or property. This means that activities like dumping of waste, using explosives, or any activities that will damage the waters must be avoided. Navigational safety is the principle that states that navigable waters should be navigated in a manner that is safe for all users at all times. This includes avoiding overcrowding, the use of lights and other signals, maintaining a safe speed, and following safe navigation rules. Finally, marine pollution is the principle that states that all activities on navigable waters which may cause pollution must be avoided. This includes dumping of oil, sewage, waste, and any other materials that are hazardous or that may affect the environment or human health. Parties responsible for polluting the waters must be held accountable and the waters must be kept clean and free from any pollutants.

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What are the main principles of maritime law?

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