The Francis Scott Key Bridge In Baltimore Collapsed

A state of emergency has been declared by Governor Moore of Maryland, after the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore collapsed Tuesday, March 16, 2024 in the early morning hours. The collapse occurred shortly after a 948-foot container ship, the Dali, crashed into the bridge. It has been reported that construction workers were repairing potholes and concrete on the bridge at the time of the collapse. Some people have been rescued, one of them seriously injured. The Dali was traveling from Baltimore to Sri Lanka. The crew notified authorities of an emergency power issue on the vessel, and then issued a "mayday" warning before the collision, which alerted authorities to stop more cars from driving over the bridge. It has also been reported that this was an accident, and there is no indication of a terror attack. The water is approximately 50 feet deep near the middle of the bridge, and the Port of Baltimore is the deepest harbor in Maryland's Chesapeake Bay, with five public and 12 private terminals. There have been reports of sonar detecting cars in the water, however it is unclear as to whether the cars belonged to the construction workers or if they were drivers who may have been on the bridge at the time of the collapse. An estimated 35,000 people used this bridge every day. The port of Baltimore ranks 9th in the nation for both total dollar value and tonnage of international cargo. The Port of Baltimore collectively handled more than 847,000 autos and light trucks in 2023, the most of any U.S. port for the 13th consecutive year. It also ranked first in the nation last year in handling automobiles, light trucks, farm and construction machinery and imported sugar and gypsum.

The Port of Baltimore generates more than 15,000 direct jobs, with another nearly 140,000 linked to port activities, pursuant to the State of Maryland.

All severe accidents can have serious personal injuries and damages. A major bridge collapse involving thousands of people is a complete trajedy in many ways. If you or a loved one was injured as a result of this Key Bridge collapse, please reach out to the Law Firm of Foran & Foran, P.A. for a free consultation.