In maritime law, what does a general average loss refer to?

A general average loss in maritime law refers to a situation where losses are shared among all parties involved in a maritime venture. This principle emerges in response to a voluntary sacrifice of part of the ship or cargo in order to save the whole during a maritime adventure. For instance, if a cargo is jettisoned to lighten a vessel to avoid sinking, all parties with an interest in the remaining cargo and the vessel will proportionally share the loss incurred from that jettisoning, along with any expenses incurred to save the property.

This concept is essential for ensuring equitable distribution of losses and encouraging cooperation during unforeseen events at sea. Such arrangements promote shared responsibility among owners, ensuring that no single party bears the entire burden of loss due to circumstances that affected the voyage. Understanding this principle is vital for adjusters in assessing claims and determining liability for losses in maritime incidents.