Legal Definitions - Admiralty Extension Act

The Admiralty Extension Act is a law passed in 1948 that expanded the jurisdiction of admiralty-tort cases. This means that any damage or injury caused by a vessel on navigable water, regardless of where it occurred, can be considered under admiralty law.

For example, if a ship crashes into a bridge or pier, causing damage or injury to people on it, the Admiralty Extension Act would allow for the case to be heard in admiralty court. This law also covers cases where a vessel causes damage or injury on land, as long as it was caused by the vessel on navigable water.

The Admiralty Extension Act is important because it ensures that those who are harmed by vessels on navigable waterways have a legal recourse to seek compensation for their damages or injuries.