Haffner v. Crane

Citations

• 115 F. 404
• 1902 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 226

Syllabus

<p>1. Negligence — Prima Facie Evidence — Falling op Vessel in Dry Dock.</p> <p>Where it is shown that a yacht which was very sharp in form, and others of similar construction, had been frequently and safely raised and lowered on dry docks, held in position only by blocks, without shoring, the falling and injury of such vessel as she was being lowered from a dry dock in which she had been placed for repairs, and when supported by blocking, is prima facie proof that she was negligently placed or handled by the owner of the dock, who owed the duty of ordinary care and skill in the premises; and such proof must be met by evidence of some unusual or abnormal condition existing, to exonerate him from liability for the injury.</p> <p>8, Same — Evidence Considered.</p> <p>Evidence considered, and held insufficient to support the claim of the owners of a dry dock that the falling of a vessel supported therein by blocking resulted from the giving way or springing of her plates, or to overcome the presumption of negligence arising from libelants’ evidence.</p>