The Department of Justice announced that the owner and operator of a cargo ship responsible for the devastating crash into the Francis Scott Key Bridge earlier this year has agreed to a $102 million settlement. This substantial settlement follows a tragic incident in March, when the cargo ship, identified as the DALI, lost power multiple times before ultimately colliding with the bridge. The accident led to the collapse of a section of the bridge and the tragic deaths of six construction workers who were working on a project near the impact site.
Despite agreeing to the settlement, the ship’s owners maintain that they are “not responsible” for the disaster, asserting that the vessel’s power failure was an unforeseen technical malfunction beyond their control. Their statement has sparked controversy, especially among the families of the victims and local advocates, who argue that the accident was preventable and point to industry standards that mandate rigorous maintenance and inspection of vessels to prevent such mechanical issues.
The DALI, a large cargo ship managed by an international shipping firm, was en route along a heavily trafficked channel in late March when it reportedly lost engine power at least twice before veering off course and colliding with the bridge. The impact of the collision caused significant structural damage to the Francis Scott Key Bridge, leading to immediate disruptions and a protracted period of repairs, during which a section of the bridge was closed to traffic. Beyond the loss of life, the accident incurred significant infrastructure damage and disruption to local commerce and travel in the Baltimore area.
The DOJ’s settlement aims to address the federal government’s claims over the accident, including damages related to the bridge collapse and compensation for the families of the deceased workers. However, some advocates argue that more stringent regulations are needed to prevent future accidents of this kind, particularly concerning power reliability and fail-safe systems on large vessels.
As part of the settlement, the ship’s owner and operator are not required to admit fault, a standard condition in many civil agreements but one that has raised concerns among some local and national safety advocates. This incident has prompted renewed calls for maritime safety reforms, particularly in high-traffic waterways where critical infrastructure and workers are at potential risk from similar accidents.
The Francis Scott Key Bridge remains under repair, and Maryland transportation officials are evaluating additional safety measures to protect construction workers in such high-risk zones. The DOJ’s settlement with the DALI’s owners marks a significant financial outcome but leaves unresolved questions surrounding responsibility and accountability for the tragedy.
