Maryland Settles with Cargo Ship Owner Over Bridge Collapse

Maryland officials have announced a settlement with Grace Ocean Private Limited and Synergy Marine Pte Ltd., the owner and operator of the M/V Dali, following the cargo ship's collision with the Francis Scott Key Bridge on March 26, 2024. This incident resulted in the bridge's collapse, leading to the deaths of six construction workers and significant economic disruption across the state. The settlement, disclosed by Attorney General Anthony Brown, resolves part of the state's claims related to the disaster but does not address potential claims against the shipbuilder, Hyundai.

Maryland settles with owner and operator of ship that crashed into bridgeMaryland Reaches Settlement With Ship Owner, Operator Over Bridge Collapse

The bridge collapse halted shipping operations at the Port of Baltimore, severely impacting the livelihoods of thousands of workers and causing economic ripple effects that are still being felt. The Maryland Transportation Authority estimated that the cost of constructing a new bridge could range from $4.3 billion to $5.2 billion, with an expected completion date in late 2030. The state is seeking damages for the destruction of the bridge, environmental harm to the Patapsco River, and lost revenues.

Maryland settles with owner and operator of ship that crashed into bridgeMaryland Reaches Settlement With Ship Owner, Operator Over Bridge Collapse

The settlement comes amid ongoing legal proceedings, including a ruling that allows Synergy Marine to pursue claims under the Shipowners’ Limitation of Liability Act, which limits shipowners' liability to the value of the vessel and its pending freight. The stipulated value of the M/V Dali is $43.7 million. The state of Maryland and wrongful death claimants had sought to prevent Synergy from invoking this law, but U.S. District Court Judge James K. Bredar denied that motion.

Maryland Reaches Settlement With Ship Owner, Operator Over Bridge CollapseMaryland settles with owner and operator of ship that crashed into bridge

Grace Ocean has countered the state's claims by asserting that state officials share "significant liability and fault" for the bridge's condition, citing historical records indicating inadequate protective measures for the aging structure. The ship owner is also pursuing claims against Hyundai, the shipbuilder, as part of their defense strategy.

Maryland Reaches Settlement With Ship Owner, Operator Over Bridge Collapse

Attorney General Anthony Brown emphasized the settlement as a crucial step towards recovery for Maryland, stating, “For two years, Maryland workers, families, and communities have carried the weight of a disaster that should never have happened.” He noted that the economic impact of the incident continues to resonate throughout the state.

Maryland settles with owner and operator of ship that crashed into bridge

• “For two years, Maryland workers, families, and communities have carried the weight of a disaster that should never have happened,” — Anthony Brown, Attorney General of Maryland

Maryland settles with owner and operator of ship that crashed into bridge

• “Our work is not finished, but this settlement is an important step toward making Maryland whole,” — Anthony Brown, Attorney General of Maryland

Maryland settles with owner and operator of ship that crashed into bridge

While the settlement with Grace Ocean and Synergy Marine addresses some claims, the state continues to pursue additional damages and is engaged in ongoing discussions with other parties, including insurance companies and wrongful death claimants. The legal landscape remains complex as various stakeholders navigate the aftermath of the bridge collapse.

Maryland Reaches Settlement With Ship Owner, Operator Over Bridge Collapse