Cargo Ship Struck the Francis Scott Key Bridge, Causing Catastrophic Damages

The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, has long been an iconic structure connecting the city to its surrounding areas. However, tragedy struck in the early hours of Tuesday morning when a large container ship collided with the bridge, causing a portion of it to collapse.

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott characterized the aftermath of the bridge collapse as surreal, likening it to a scene straight out of an action movie. The magnitude of the destruction that unfolded was beyond what could be imagined.

This devastating incident has not only resulted in a state of emergency being declared but has also left at least seven people unaccounted for and in need of rescue.

Our Maryland bridge collapse lawyers at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel Personal Injury Lawyers are closely monitoring the situation and are offering our deepest condolences to all those affected by this tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and the entire Baltimore community during this difficult time. If you or a loved one have been impacted by this tragedy, our legal team is here to help.

The Francis Scott Key Bridge

The Francis Scott Key Bridge holds historical significance as it is named after the writer of the United States national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner,” according to the Maryland Transportation Authority. It was opened in 1977 and has since served as a crucial transportation link for Baltimore and its surrounding areas. The bridge’s design includes a steel truss structure supported by concrete piers. Its 1.6-mile span carries four lanes of traffic and has been a vital connection for residents and businesses alike.

The Collapse

Early Tuesday morning, a large container ship, the Dali, collided with a support column of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. The ship had lost power prior to the collision, and a mayday call was issued to the Maryland Department of Transportation before impact. Authorities were able to stop traffic from driving onto the bridge, potentially preventing further vehicles from being on the bridge at the time of the collapse.

The impact caused a portion of the bridge to snap and collapse, resulting in vehicles and individuals falling into the Patapsco River. A construction crew that was working on the bridge at the time was particularly affected, with six members of the crew still unaccounted for. Rescue efforts began immediately to search for those who are missing.

The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge has had an immediate impact on Baltimore and the surrounding areas. Maryland Governor Wes Moore declared a state of emergency in response to the incident, allowing for the rapid deployment of federal resources.

The Baltimore City Fire Chief described the scene as an “active search and rescue,” with multiple agencies, including the Coast Guard, working together to locate and rescue individuals who fell into the water. The closure of the bridge has also disrupted traffic and halted vessel traffic in and out of the Port of Baltimore, a major hub for shipping on the East Coast. The full extent of the impact on the community and local businesses is yet to be determined.

Search and Rescue Operations

Following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, search and rescue operations were immediately launched to locate and rescue individuals who fell into the Patapsco River. Multiple agencies local to Baltimore county as well as federal, are working together to conduct both air and water searches. Maryland Gov. Wes Moore has stated they are working to “quickly deploy federal resources from the Biden Administration”. The priority is to locate and rescue anyone who may still be trapped or in distress.

The rescue efforts are ongoing and are expected to continue throughout the day. Every effort is being made to ensure the safety and well-being of those affected by this tragic incident.

A Challenging Rescue Effort

The search and rescue efforts following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge present numerous challenges for emergency personnel. The treacherous conditions of the water and the debris field make it difficult for divers and rescue teams to navigate and locate individuals. The swift currents and limited visibility further complicate the search operations.

Additionally, the collapse occurred during the early morning hours, adding an additional layer of difficulty to the rescue efforts. Despite these challenges, the dedicated and skilled rescue teams are working tirelessly to locate and rescue anyone who may still be trapped or in distress.

Those Rescued So Far

In the wake of the bridge collapse, Baltimore Fire Chief James Wallace provided an update on the condition of individuals rescued from the catastrophic event. During a news conference held at the scene, Chief Wallace disclosed that one of the individuals pulled from the water was found to be in good condition and chose to refuse medical treatment. However, another person rescued was not as fortunate, suffering serious injuries necessitating immediate care at a trauma center.

Legal Implications and Responsibilities

The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge has significant legal implications and raises questions about the responsibilities of various parties involved. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will conduct an investigation to determine the official cause of the collapse. The findings of the investigation will help determine if any parties, such as the ship operator or bridge maintenance authorities, bear legal responsibility for the incident.

The victims and their families may have legal grounds to seek compensation for their injuries, losses, and damages. Seeking legal help and guidance is crucial for those impacted by the collapse to understand their rights and options.

Our Maryland Bridge Collapse Lawyers Stand Ready to Help

The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge has brought a devastating tragedy to the Baltimore community. At this difficult time, our team of Maryland bridge lawyers at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata, & Siegel P.C. offers our deepest condolences and support to all those affected by this incident. We understand the emotional and financial toll that such tragedies can bring, and we are here to provide legal guidance and support for anyone impacted by this disaster.

Our skilled and experienced lawyers have a track record of success in handling complex cases like that of a bridge collapse. We are dedicated to helping victims and their families seek justice and compensation for their losses.

Contact Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel Personal Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation to discuss your legal rights and options. Our team is here to stand by your side during this difficult time.

Bridges are essential structures that allow for the efficient movement of goods and people. However, when a bridge collapses, it can have devastating consequences, resulting in loss of life, severe injuries, and significant property damage. The recent collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with bridge infrastructure.

The bridge collapse attorneys at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel Personal Injury Lawyers stand ready to represent individuals and families who have been affected by bridge collapses. Our team of skilled lawyers understands the complexities involved in these types of cases and will fight tirelessly to secure justice for our clients. Contact our team today for a free consultation.

What Causes Bridges to Collapse?

Bridges can collapse due to various factors, including structural deficiencies, design flaws, poor maintenance, and unforeseen events. Construction workers play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and integrity of bridges during the construction phase. However, even the most diligent efforts can sometimes fail to prevent catastrophic collapses.

Here are some common causes of bridge collapses:

• Structural Deficiencies: Weak materials or erosion of components compromising the bridge’s stability.
• Design Flaws: Errors in the bridge’s design that fail under stress or environmental conditions.
• Poor Maintenance: Neglect in regular inspections and repairs, leading to decay.
• Overloading: Exceeding the weight limits the bridge is designed to safely accommodate.
• Natural Disasters: Earthquakes, floods, or extreme weather contributing to immediate or gradual damage.
• Corrosion: Damage caused by rust and other forms of corrosion affecting metal components.
• Impact from Vehicles or Cargo Ships: Collisions that cause direct damage to the structure.
• Foundation Failures: Instability or shifting in the ground beneath the bridge supports.

The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) establishes standards and guidelines for the design, construction, and maintenance of bridges. These guidelines aim to ensure the structural integrity and safety of bridges. However, despite these efforts, bridges can still collapse under certain conditions.

Notable Bridge Collapses in History: Learning from Past Mistakes

• The catastrophic collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore is just one example of a bridge collapse in history. This Baltimore bridge collapse happened due to a crash into the bridge’s structure. The cargo ship struck the bridge, causing it to collapse into the waters below. Multiple people are missing, and two have lost their lives so far as of March 26th, 2024.
• Another major bridge collapse occurred in 2007 when the I-35W Mississippi River Bridge in Minneapolis, Minnesota, collapsed, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries. This bridge collapsed due to a design flaw involving undersized gusset plates.
• The Melan Bridge, also known as the Queen Isabella Causeway, in Texas, collapsed on September 15, 2001, when a barge struck one of its support columns. The collapse resulted in the deaths of eight people who were on the bridge at the time. The cause was attributed to the barge collision.
• The Interstate 5 Skagit River Bridge in Washington collapsed on May 23, 2013, when an oversized truck struck several overhead support beams. The collapse resulted in two vehicles falling into the river, but there were no fatalities. The collapsed bridge was later repaired and reopened to traffic.
• The FIU Pedestrian Bridge in Miami, Florida, collapsed on March 15, 2018, just days after its installation. The collapse resulted in six fatalities, including one construction worker, and multiple injuries. The cause was attributed to design flaws and construction errors.

Why You Need a Lawyer for These Cases

Navigating the aftermath of a bridge collapse is a complex process that involves multiple stakeholders, including government agencies, construction companies, and insurance firms. This complexity is why having a skilled lawyer is critical for victims and their families. An experienced bridge collapse attorney can provide invaluable assistance by ensuring that your rights are protected and assisting in navigating the intricate legal and regulatory landscape. They work diligently to uncover the cause of the collapse, whether it’s a design flaw, maintenance neglect, or another factor. By leveraging their expertise, victims can secure the compensation necessary for medical expenses, loss of income, and other damages. Furthermore, lawyers play a pivotal role in holding responsible parties accountable, which contributes to preventing similar incidents in the future.

How Our Lawyers Can Help

Expert Legal Representation

Our lawyers specialize in bridge collapse litigation and possess a deep understanding of the legal, engineering, and construction aspects of these cases. We provide expert legal representation, utilizing our knowledge and resources to build a strong case on your behalf.

Comprehensive Investigation

We conduct a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the bridge collapse, working with forensic engineers and other specialists. This meticulous approach ensures that we identify all responsible parties and understand the full extent of their liability.

Maximizing Compensation

Our team is committed to securing the maximum possible compensation for our clients. This includes damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and, in tragic cases, wrongful death. We negotiate vigorously with insurance companies, and if necessary, we’re prepared to take your case to trial.

Advocacy and Support

Beyond legal representation, we offer advocacy and support to victims and their families during these challenging times. Our team is here to guide you through the legal process, answer your questions, and provide the emotional support you need.

Holding Parties Accountable

By holding negligent parties accountable, we not only seek justice for our clients but also help prevent future tragedies. Our legal actions can lead to essential changes in regulations, standards, and practices that improve the safety and integrity of bridge construction and maintenance.

At Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel Personal Injury Lawyers, we are dedicated to representing those affected by bridge collapses and to ensuring that justice is served. Contact us today for a thorough review of your case.

Common Challenges in Bridge Collapse Cases

Bridge collapse cases present unique challenges due to the involvement of multiple parties, complex legal issues, and the need for extensive investigations. Proving negligence in bridge maintenance or construction can be particularly challenging, as it requires demonstrating that the responsible party failed to meet their duty of care.

Proving Negligence in Bridge Maintenance or Construction

Proving negligence in bridge maintenance or construction involves establishing that the responsible party, such as the Maryland Transportation Authority or a construction company, failed to properly inspect, maintain, or construct the bridge. This may require reviewing maintenance records, conducting expert analyses, and presenting evidence of any design or construction defects. Our team of lawyers has the expertise and resources to navigate these complexities and hold the responsible parties accountable.

The Complexity of Dealing with Multiple Defendants

Bridge collapse cases often involve multiple defendants, including government agencies, contractors, and insurers. Coordinating with an interagency team and dealing with multiple defendants can add complexity to the legal process. Our experienced attorneys are adept at managing these complexities and will work tirelessly to ensure that all responsible parties are held accountable for their actions. We will leverage our knowledge and resources to advocate for your rights and seek the maximum compensation you deserve.

What Compensation Can I Receive in a Bridge Collapse Accident?

Victims of bridge collapse accidents may be entitled to receive comprehensive compensation for their losses. Understanding the types of compensation available is essential for those impacted. Compensation can include, but is not limited to:

• Medical expenses, including emergency treatment, hospitalization, and future medical care
• Lost wages for time away from work, as well as loss of future earning capacity
• Pain and suffering, including physical discomfort and mental anguish
• Property damage or loss, for any personal belongings damaged in the accident
• Wrongful death benefits for families who have lost a loved one in the collapse
• Punitive damages in cases of intentional wrongdoing in Maryland, or reckless indifference to the lives of others in other jurisdictions like the District of Columbia or Virginia.

What Should I Do If I’m Injured in a Bridge Collapse?

If you are injured in a bridge collapse, the first priority is to seek medical attention. Contact emergency services immediately. Follow the instructions of rescue personnel, such as the Baltimore Fire Department, emergency responders, and the US Coast Guard. They will provide the necessary assistance and ensure your safety.

Contact Us Today

If you or a loved one have been affected by a bridge collapse, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced attorney as soon as possible. Our team at Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel Personal Injury Lawyers has the knowledge and resources to guide you through the complex legal process and ensure that your rights are protected. Contact us today for a free and confidential consultation. Let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Let us help you on your journey towards healing and closure. Our team is here to support you every step of the way, providing compassionate advocacy and unwavering dedication to your case.