Odeco, Inc. v. Avondale Shipyards, Inc.

POLITZ, Circuit Judge:

The D/B MARGARET, a submersible drilling barge owned by ODECO, Inc., was one of the victims of Hurricane Eloise which ravaged the Gulf of Mexico in September of 1975. After temporary corrective measures were performed at sea, the MARGARET was towed up the Mississippi River to Avondale Shipyards for permanent repairs. Shortly after arriving at the Avondale dock, the MARGARET sank to the river bottom and, a few days later, collapsed into ruin. The ensuing suit for damages was bifurcated, and a bench trial on liability resulted in judgment against Avondale. 1 We affirm.

Facts