Web alert: 1996 LLMC Protocol limits - increases will apply from 8 June 2015

The Standard Club has previously reported that the 1996 LLMC Protocol limits were increased by 51% in April 2012 and that these increases would enter into force three years later, in accordance with the tacit amendment procedure contained in the Protocol.  The IMO has now confirmed that the increases to the 1996 LLMC Protocol limits will apply from 8 June this year.
 
The 1976 LLMC Convention sets specified limits of liability for two types of claims against shipowners - claims for loss of life or personal injury, and property claims (such as damage to other ships, property or harbour works).
 
The Convention provides for a virtually unbreakable system of limiting liability.  A shipowner or salvor may limit their liability unless: 'it is proved that the loss resulted from his personal act or omission, committed with the intent to cause such a loss, or recklessly and with knowledge that such loss would probably result'.
 
For further information, please visit the IMO's website. 
 
Those states which are party to the 1976 LLMC Convention but have not adopted the 1996 Protocol will not be affected by these latest increases.
 
The Standard Club is always on hand to assist. If a member has any queries in relation to this issue, they should not hesitate to call their usual club contact, or the authors of this article.