On Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at roughly 1:30 a.m., the cargo ship Dali struck one of the pillars of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. The cargo ship was under the control of two pilots, local specialists who are familiar with the conditions of their port and navigate vessels in and out.
Initial reports claim the Dali lost power during its departure from the Port of Baltimore. Efforts were made to change course and restore power, but they were unsuccessful. Everyone on board the Dali survived the crash. However, it is unclear how many people have died at this time. Our personal injury law firm in Harford County is following this event and the investigation.
Six of the Eight-Man Construction Crew Are Still Missing
There was a crew of eight men repairing potholes on the bridge at the time of the collapse. Two men were rescued, one of whom was seriously injured. The other six men have not been found, and rescue attempts have now become recoveries.
The Dali did make a mayday call before the impact, and efforts were made to halt traffic on both sides of the bridge, but, at this time, it is uncertain how many motorists were on the bridge at the time of the collapse.
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A Cargo Vessel May Take Miles to Stop or Change Direction
Cargo vessels are incredibly large, and the Dali is no exception. The Dali is almost 1,000 feet long and 95,000 tons when empty. Changing course or stopping requires a tremendous amount of time and energy. Attempts were made to correct the vessel’s course, such as dropping the port side anchor, but it was not enough to prevent the collision.
Until the Investigation Is Complete, Liability Is Still Uncertain
First of all, we send our condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones. This tragedy will affect many of us in the years to come.
Many families often ask us about the legal aspect of these cases. Investigation into exactly how this tragedy happened is ongoing, so it’s hard to comment right now. Since the ship did strike the bridge, liability could lie with the owner of the Dali, but there could be multiple parties at fault in this tragedy.
As we monitor how the investigation unfolds, our law firm will be in a better position to advise our community.
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Families and Victims Can Claim Compensation Following This Tragedy
The victims and families of this bridge collapse will be facing some intense hardships and burdens. Those who survived may be dealing with extensive medical bills as they recover from injuries sustained in the collapse and hypothermia. Those who lost a loved one will have their lives completely changed.
As the victims, you could recover compensation for your losses, legally referred to as damages. Your damages may include:
- Medical bills
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of quality of life
As a grieving family, you may also claim funeral and burial expenses.
Also, time is limited. So, as we wait for the investigation to complete, keep in mind that the following statutes of limitations may apply to your case:
- Md. Cts. & Jud. Proc. Code § 5-101: three years from the date of the accident for personal injury.
- Md. Cts. & Jud. Proc. Code § 3-904: three years from the date of death for wrongful death.
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Call Us If You Have Any Questions
Call Adam Smallow Injury Lawyers at (410) 777-8960. We can answer your questions and help you understand where you can go from here for your health and your family.
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