Spurious stevedore claims

Stevedore claims they are injured whilst working on the vessel have occurred, notwithstanding there is no evidence of such claims. Once the stevedores notify the police, the vessel is detained.

The stevedores usually seek compensation of US$10,000 and many owners settle this knowing such claims are fabricated to avoid time loss and further problems.

We suggest that owners incorporate into the charterparty a clause which transfers such payments and time loss to charterers if there is no evidence of the stevedores’ clams.