46 CFR §204.2

Claims for death, personal injury, or damage to or loss of real or personal property are payable when the death, injury or damage is caused by a negligent or wrongful act or omission of an employee of the Maritime Administration, while acting within the scope of employment and under circumstances in which the United States, if a private person, would be liable to the claimant under the law of the place where the act or omission occurred.