Unmanned Ships and the Law

The use of unmanned ships raises serious liability issues, affecting a wide range of parties and requiring specialized knowledge. Written by insurance law experts, this article provides in-depth coverage of these issues.

Format: Hardback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 29 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The use of unmanned ships raises a multitude of complex liability issues, which require careful consideration and analysis. This comprehensive guide delves into the various stakeholders involved in unmanned ship operations, including shipowners, charterers, operators, and insurers. It explores the legal framework governing these operations, including international conventions, national laws, and regulatory frameworks.
The use of unmanned ships presents a myriad of intricate liability concerns that necessitate thorough examination and analysis. This comprehensive guide encompasses a wide range of parties affected by and required to comply with unmanned ship operations, including shipowners, charterers, operators, and insurers. It delves into the legal framework governing these operations, encompassing international conventions, national laws, and regulatory frameworks.

Shipowners bear primary responsibility for the safe and lawful operation of their unmanned ships. They must ensure that the ships are properly designed, constructed, and equipped with the necessary safety systems and equipment. Shipowners must also comply with applicable international and national regulations, including those related to navigation, safety, and environmental protection.

Charterers, on the other hand, are responsible for hiring and managing unmanned ships on behalf of shipowners. They must ensure that the ships are operated in a safe and responsible manner and that the charterer's obligations under the charter party are fulfilled. Charterers may also be held liable for any damage caused by the unmanned ship to third parties.

Operators play a critical role in the operation of unmanned ships. They must be trained and qualified to operate the ship and must comply with all applicable regulations and safety standards. Operators must also monitor the ship's performance and ensure that any issues or malfunctions are promptly addressed.

Insurers are also involved in the liability landscape of unmanned ships. They must assess the risks associated with unmanned ship operations and provide appropriate insurance coverage to protect the interests of all parties involved. Insurers must also investigate and settle claims related to unmanned ship operations in a timely and efficient manner.

In addition to the legal framework, unmanned ships also raise ethical and safety concerns. For example, there is a risk of accidents or incidents involving unmanned ships, which could have serious consequences for the environment and human life. There is also a need to address the issue of cyber security, as unmanned ships may be vulnerable to hacking and other forms of cyber attack.

To address these liability issues, it is important for all parties involved in unmanned ship operations to work together and adhere to best practices. This includes developing and implementing safety protocols, training and certifying operators, and ensuring that the ships are properly maintained and inspected.

In conclusion, the use of unmanned ships raises a complex set of liability issues that require careful consideration and analysis. This comprehensive guide provides an in-depth exploration of the various stakeholders involved in unmanned ship operations, the legal framework governing these operations, and the ethical and safety concerns associated with these ships. By working together and adhering to best practices, we can ensure that unmanned ship operations are conducted safely and responsibly.

Weight: 480g
Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032057415