Supreme Court of the United States
Victory Carriers, Inc. v. Law
December 13, 1971404 U.S. 202
Summary
The Supreme Court reversed the Court of Appeals, holding that federal maritime law does not govern a longshoreman's pier‑side injury caused by stevedore equipment; state law governs such accidents. Justice White’s opinion emphasized the historic locality rule and declined to extend admiralty jurisdiction absent clear congressional authority, while Justice Douglas dissented, arguing that the unseaworthiness doctrine should apply.
Holding
- Whether federal maritime law governs a longshoreman's pier‑side injury caused by stevedore equipment. Federal maritime law does not govern the accident; state law governs pier‑side injuries caused by stevedore equipment absent explicit congressional extension.
Cited authorities
- 33 U.S.C. §§ 901-950
- 28 U.S.C. § 1332
- 28 U.S.C. § 1333
- 28 U.S.C. § 1333
- 62 Stat. 496
- 46 U.S.C. § 740
- 46 U.S.C. § 740
- 44 Stat. 1424