general average
general average that part of the law merchant that provides that a loss incurred to save a vessel or cargo is distributed between all those benefiting thereby as parties to the maritime adventure. This encour- ages the jettisoning of cargo for the safety of all. It derives from the ancient lex rhodia de jactu, recorded as being adopted by Roman law in the Digest of Justinian (see CORPUS JURIS CIVILIS). Its recognition in English law may go as far back as 1285, and it is recognised by Scots law. Differences in application of the principle by the maritime nations of the world are reconciled in the YORK-ANTWERP RULES.181
general damages
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