On Tuesday, March 26, a 948-foot-long cargo ship leaving the Port of Baltimore crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge, causing the bridge to collapse. A viral video depicting the bridge’s collapse has been widely shared across major global news networks.
Six construction workers who were fixing potholes on the bridge during the time of the crash are currently missing. Search and rescue teams are working relentlessly to find the missing construction workers and have rescued two other individuals.
Maryland’s Governor Moore declared a state of emergency in Maryland and has been in direct communication with Pete Buttigieg, U.S. transportation secretary as investigations for the incident have been underway. President Joe Biden is expected to visit Baltimore and has pledged federal support for rebuilding the bridge.
GLP Attorneys hopes that the missing construction workers are found soon and that everyone involved in the accident can heal emotionally and physically.
Why Did the Bridge Collapse?
According to official reports, the cargo ship lost power and issued a mayday call right before it hit the Francis Scott Key Bridge. While details are still being uncovered, there are several explanations for the unusual crash.
A shipping expert noted that the crash could have been the result of engine failure, steering failure, or a generator blackout. The management company, however, reported that the cargo ship, Dali, had a momentary loss of propulsion, causing it to veer off track.
Investigations are still ongoing and the National Transportation Safety Board is examining whether the construction of the bridge could have played a role in the collapse.
Impact of the Francis Scott Key Bridge Collapse
The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge will greatly impact the Baltimore population as around 34,000 vehicles a day use the bridge. This will inevitably lead to greater traffic pileups on the roads and force other cargo ships to renavigate through other ports.
Construction Injuries in the Workplace
GLP Attorneys is devastated to learn that construction workers on the Francis Key Bridge have been harmed and went missing. While it is the duty of the employer to ensure that no workplace injuries take place, sometimes freak accidents like this one do occur. In such cases, it is important to know your rights and to seek the appropriate help.
If you or a loved one has been injured at your place of work, it is important to speak to an experienced personal injury attorney. GLP Attorneys holds decades of experience dealing with complex personal injury cases and has represented hundreds of construction workers who have been injured at their place of work.
GLP Attorneys has offices across Washington State and are here to help you pursue justice. Call us at 800.273.5005 or email our personal injury attorneys at attorneys@glpattorneys.com to schedule a free lawyer consultation.