Investigation of Maritime Accidents in Montenegro
Lawyer for Maritime accidents in Montenegro
The investigation of maritime accidents in Montenegro is regulated by the Montenegrin Law on Maritime Safety, which provides a comprehensive legal framework to ensure the protection of human life, the environment, and property at sea. According to this law, every maritime accident occurring in Montenegrin waters or involving Montenegrin-flagged vessels must be reported to the relevant maritime authority, which initiates an official investigation. The purpose of the investigation is not to assign blame but to establish the facts of the incident and recommend measures to prevent similar accidents in the future.
A key role in the investigation of maritime accidents is played by the Montenegrin National Commission for the Investigation of Accidents and Serious Incidents of Aircraft, Emergency Events Endangering Railway Traffic Safety, and Maritime Accidents and Incidents (Nacionalna komisija za istraživanje nesreća i ozbiljnih nezgoda vazduhoplova, vanrednih događaja koji ugrožavaju bezbjednost željezničkog saobraćaja i pomorskih nezgoda i nesreća) This Commission operates independently and ensures that all investigations are conducted objectively and transparently, following both national laws and international maritime conventions.
The law stipulates that an investigation of a maritime accident or incident in Montenegro (Yacht, ships etc), must be conducted promptly and thoroughly by qualified experts. These experts include maritime inspectors, navigational safety officers, and legal representatives with knowledge of international maritime conventions, such as SOLAS and MARPOL. The investigation team is responsible for collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses, and analyzing the ship’s navigation records and communications before and during the incident.
In cases of significant maritime accidents in Montenegro, such as collisions, groundings, or oil spills, the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Transport, in coordination with the National Commission, may establish a special committee. This committee is tasked with a detailed examination of all aspects of the accident, including technical failures, human error, and environmental factors.
The law also emphasizes the importance of cooperation with international organizations, especially when accidents involve foreign vessels or occur in international waters. Montenegro, as a member of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), adheres to international standards in its investigations and reporting.
Once the investigation is concluded, a detailed report is compiled and made available to the public, outlining the causes of the accident and providing safety recommendations. These recommendations are intended to improve maritime safety in Montenegrin waters and prevent future incidents. The National Commission plays a crucial role in reviewing and implementing these recommendations, ensuring continuous improvements in Montenegrin maritime safety standards.
Our law firm can provide you with comprehensive legal support if your vessel has been involved in any type of maritime accident or incident or if you are the third party as a participant in maritime traffic.
Note: This text provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. For specific questions and legal advice, please consult a lawyer.
Author
Vojislav S. Dulić
Vojislav Dulić is an attorney at law born in Herceg Novi, specifically in the town of Bijela.
He successfully completed his primary and secondary education in Geneva, thus acquiring an international education and perspective that further enriches his practice. Upon returning to Serbia, he further honed his knowledge and skills by practicing law in Belgrade, where he had the opportunity to work on various complex cases at a prestigious law firm.
He further complemented his practice by working in Geneva, within various branches of law. He speaks English, French, and Italian.
He is a member of the Belgrade Bar Association.
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