A basic and simplified guide of Hague Visby rules for seafarers

Let's play a game. This game is between me and you. You are the shipper and I am a ship owner. You have contracted with me to carry a cargo of wheat from united states to South Africa. I am an Indian ship owner with ship registered in Panama. You are the shipper of British nationality with company head office in Rotterdam. On arrival in South Africa, the cargo of wheat was found damaged because of mistake from ship's crew who forgot to close the hatches properly. As a shipper of the cargo, you want to sue me but can you really? Where do you approach? South Africa, India, Britain, Panama, Netherlands or United States? And how could you sue me? I never promised that it is my responsibility to take care of your cargo. I may argue that shipper's representative should have checked if the cargo hatches are properly closed before the ship sets the sail. Even if I agree that it is my mistake, I may not agree with the money you might demand from me as damages. You see, without pre-set rules, it is not easy to do business. But can we agree on the terms and conditions for carriage of cargo in details during each voyage contract? It would take ages to agree to terms and conditions. That is because you as a shipper would want terms and conditions in your favor and I as ship owner would ...