What Our Maritime Cargo Damage Verdict Means for Florida Shippers
Shipping cargo always comes with risks, even when trusted carriers and established logistics companies are involved. That’s why choosing the right legal team matters just as much as choosing the right shipping partner.
Recently, Michael C. Black, P.A. secured a significant jury verdict in Miami-Dade County in a complex maritime cargo damage case. Representing clients against some of the largest companies in the world, including Intel, DHL Global Forwarding, and Universal Protection Services, our firm proved once again that we have the skill, resources, and determination to take on industry giants and win.
This result highlights what sets our practice apart: our commitment to protecting our clients’ cargo, financial interests, and legal rights. We bring decades of maritime law experience to every case, and we don’t back down, no matter how powerful the opposition may be.
For businesses and individuals alike, the takeaway is clear: when the stakes are high, Michael C. Black, P.A. is the legal team you want on your side.
What Happened in the Case
The dispute began when Intel shipped high-value cargo through DHL Global Forwarding, with Universal Protection Services handling some aspects of the transportation. During transit, the cargo suffered substantial damage.
Plaintiffs Affiliated FM Insurance Co. and Intel Corporation filed claims arguing that:
- DHL Global Forwarding breached its contract, causing financial losses.
- Universal Protection Services was negligent in handling the cargo.
The jury found that both companies were partially responsible, awarding damages totaling over $15 million. DHL was found to have breached the contract and was mostly responsible, while Universal Protection Services was found partially negligent with 35% of the fault.
This case is an example of how contractual obligations and negligence intersect in maritime shipping, and why professional legal guidance is essential.
How Our Law Firm Helped
At Michael C. Black, P.A., our team guided the plaintiffs through the complex legal process.
Our role included:
- Reviewing shipping contracts in detail to identify breaches and liability.
- Documenting cargo damage and connecting it to negligent handling.
- Coordinating with insurance providers to ensure claims were processed correctly.
- Presenting clear arguments in court to show both breach of contract and negligence.
Why This Case Matters for Businesses
Even experienced shippers face potential losses from damaged cargo.
Lessons to learn from this case include:
- Always inspect shipments before sending and upon delivery to note any pre-existing damage.
- Choose reputable carriers with strong track records in handling high-value or sensitive cargo.
- Ensure proper insurance coverage is in place to protect against losses from accidents or negligence.
- Document contracts to clearly outline the specified liabilities and responsibilities for packaging, handling, and delivery.
- Act quickly after damage occurs to report the incident to both the carrier and your insurance provider.
These steps help protect your financial interests and increase the likelihood of a successful claim if something goes wrong.
Common Causes of Maritime Cargo Damage
Understanding what can go wrong helps shippers prevent problems.
Some common causes of maritime cargo loss include:
- Improper handling by third-party contractors, which can lead to breakage or lost items.
- Environmental damage, such as water intrusion, humidity, or extreme temperatures.
- Transportation accidents, including collisions, tipping, or equipment failure.
- Insufficient packaging, which may not protect items from vibrations or impacts during transit.
Cases like the Miami-Dade verdict show that negligence or failure to follow contract terms can result in substantial financial liability.
What to Do if Your Maritime Cargo is Damaged
Maritime cargo damage can be financially and emotionally stressful for businesses. By understanding contracts, insurance, and potential negligence, companies can better protect their assets.
If you experience cargo damage, follow these steps:
- Document everything. Take photos and notes to show the condition of the cargo before and after transport to create clear evidence.
- Immediately notify your carriers and insurers of damage. Prompt communication helps preserve your legal rights.
- Preserve packaging and damaged items. Avoid throwing away containers or materials until claims are settled.
- Use reputable carriers and third-party handlers to minimize risk.
- Contact a maritime or transportation attorney to assess liability, negotiate claims, and pursue legal action when necessary. Experienced legal counsel can assess liability and guide you through insurance and court processes.
Board-Certified Admiralty Law Support for Complex Cargo Claims
Michael C. Black, P.A. specializes in maritime and transportation law across Florida, including Miami and surrounding counties.
We focus on:
- Protecting clients from cargo losses through expert legal guidance.
- Navigating complex insurance claims efficiently and effectively.
- Handling high-value and specialized shipments, including commercial and industrial goods.
- Advising on contracts and liability issues before and after accidents occur.
With over 25 years of experience, our founding attorney, Michael C. Black, offers maritime law services board-certified by the Florida Bar Board of Legal Specialization and Education, helping clients understand their legal rights and options every step of the way.
This certification means Michael C. Black has:
- Practiced law full-time for at least five years, with 35% of that focused on maritime law.
- Passed a rigorous written exam demonstrating maritime law proficiency.
- Completed peer review by other attorneys in the field.
This combination of experience, specialization, and peer validation ensures that our clients receive knowledgeable, dependable representation for complex maritime cases.
If your cargo has been damaged during shipment, call (305) 964-8792 today or contact us online to discuss your case with a Florida maritime law firm experienced in protecting clients across the state.