What is the scope of protection offered under the Hamburg Rules of 1978?

The Hamburg Rules of 1978 were designed to provide a set of international maritime laws that promote and protect the interests of both shippers and carriers worldwide. These rules provide a base level of protection for both parties by outlining regulations regarding how claims to cargo damage or loss must be handled. The Hamburg Rules cover all goods shipped by sea, regardless of whether it is for personal, commercial, or government use. It also applies to all vessels, regardless of size or type. This means that the Rules govern how claims are handled for cargo damage or loss in both inter-state and international maritime shipments. The main scope of the Hamburg Rules is to provide protection to shippers by setting clear regulations for the manner and amount of compensation to be provided in the event of cargo damage or loss. According to the Rules, carriers are liable for any damage or loss of cargo under their care, unless the carrier can prove that the damage or loss was caused by any of the thirteen exemptions listed in the Rules (e.g. natural disasters, war, riots, or acts of God). The Hamburg Rules also provide protection to carriers from shippers who may attempt to make unfounded claims for damage or loss of cargo. The Rules require that shippers, depending upon the circumstances, provide valid documentary evidence or submit timely notice in order to be eligible for compensation. The Hamburg Rules of 1978 have had a wide impact on the international maritime industry, providing both shippers and carriers with a base line of protection and legal recourse in cases of cargo damage or loss. They are still widely referred to and used to settle international maritime disputes and provide an important layer of protection within the industry.

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