Maryland's Key Bridge collapse triggers investigations and lawsuits

In Maryland, the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed into the Patapsco River on March 26, 2024, after being struck by the cargo ship Dali. This tragic incident resulted in the deaths of six construction workers and the closure of the Port of Baltimore for nearly three months, leading to significant shipping delays and economic concerns for regional businesses. Following the incident, more than 20 entities expressed their intention to sue the ship's owner and operator, setting the stage for billions of dollars in potential litigation. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) immediately began an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collapse. By May 2024, the preliminary report indicated that the ship, Dali, suffered multiple power losses in the hours preceding the accident. The report also disclosed that 56 of the cargo ship's 4,680 containers were filled with hazardous materials, raising safety concerns about the cargo involved in the collision. Despite these findings, the NTSB had not yet identified the precise cause of the collapse, leaving many in the community anxious about the structural integrity of bridges in the region and across the country. By March 2025, nearly a year after the collapse, the NTSB released another report faulting the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) for not conducting a critical vulnerability assessment that could have identified potential structural risks before the incident. Officials from MDTA responded, asserting that the bridge was compliant with federal permits and standards, and defending their position by arguing that the Dali's operators bore complete responsibility for the accident. Maryland Governor Wes Moore further supported this stance, stating that there was no existing bridge capable of surviving an impact from the large cargo ship. This series of events, investigations, and claims have ignited discussions regarding bridge safety protocols, accountability, and the broader implications of maritime traffic in the region. As rebuilding efforts commenced, the MDTA announced the first test pile installation to prepare for the reconstruction of the Key Bridge. The new bridge design is expected to incorporate advanced features that would enhance safety and reduce risks. Initial assessments revealed that twelve test piles, each eight feet in diameter and over 200 feet long, would be placed into the riverbed to test geological conditions. This new construction is projected to cost around $2 billion and is anticipated to be completed by the end of 2028, with federal funding secured for the entire project. These developments highlight the ongoing response to the catastrophic collapse, showcasing the interplay between tragedy and the need for improved infrastructure in Maryland's transportation system.