Volts Shipping Sues U.S. Navy Over USS Porter Strait of Hormuz Collision

Damage to USS Porter as a result of its collision in 2012, U.S. Navy Photo

Citing violation of Rules 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 14, 15, and 16, of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea 1972 (COLREGS) and their “otherwise negligent navigation and manning of the vessel,” Volts Shipping Navigation S.A. filed a lawsuit this week against the United States for damages incurred from the collision involving the Panamanian-flagged oil tanker M/T Otowasan and the destroyer USS Porter (DDG-78).

The incident occurred on August 12, 2012 at 2153 in the following position.

Listen: Most Intense Bridge Conversation Ever

Volts Shipping claims that as a result of the collision, their tanker suffered damages totaling $1,744,000.57, none of which has been paid despite due demand. In addition for reimbursement for the damages, Volts is also seeking interest, fees and additional costs.  Law firm Vandeventer Black, LLP is representing the ship owner.

The discussions on the bridge between USS Porter’s officers was recorded immediately before and during the collision and will likely be highly supportive to Volts’ lawsuit.

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