American Samoa § 20.0340 - Civil liability of vessel owners.

§ 20.0340. Civil liability of vessel owners.

The owner of a vessel is liable for any injury or damage occasioned by the negligent operation of such vessel whether such negligence consists of a violation of the provisions of the law of this Territory or neglecting to observe such ordinary care and such operation as the rules of the common law require. The owner is not to be liable, however, unless such vessel is being used with his or her express or implied consent. It shall be presumed that such vessel is being operated with the knowledge and consent of the owner if, at the time of the injury or damage, it is under the control of his or her spouse, father, mother, brother, sister, son, daughter or other immediate member of the owner’s family. Nothing contained in this section shall be construed to relieve any other person from any liability which he would otherwise have, but nothing contained in this section shall be construed to authorize or permit any recovery in excess of injury or damage actually incurred.