Maritime accidents refer to incidents involving ships, boats, or other vessels that occur in bodies of water, including oceans, seas, rivers, and lakes. These accidents can range in severity from minor mishaps to major disasters resulting in significant property damage, injuries, or loss of life. Common causes of maritime accidents include collisions, groundings, fires, explosions, and capsizing due to factors such as human error, mechanical failure, or adverse weather conditions.
Maritime accidents pose significant risks to human life, the environment, and economic activities. They can disrupt international trade, damage marine ecosystems, and impact coastal communities reliant on marine resources. In recognition of the importance of maritime safety, various national and international regulations and organizations have been established to prevent and mitigate maritime accidents. These include the International Maritime Organization (IMO), which sets global standards for ship design, construction, and operation, as well as coastal authorities and local port authorities responsible for enforcing safety measures within their jurisdictions.