Mathis v. Hanover Insurance Co.

Hall, Presiding Judge.

While there is very little Georgia case law on marine insurance, general maritime law governs the construction of these policies and there are many useful cases from the federal courts and other states. Before discussing the case here, certain basic principles need to be reviewed. First of all, unless otherwise stated, a marine insurance policy does not cover loss resulting from the ordinary action of wind and waves, natural decay or ordinary wear and tear of the vessel or negligence of the owner in keeping the vessel seaworthy. The classic "perils of the sea” clause has…