Maryland has secured a groundbreaking $2.25 billion settlement with the operators of the containership Dali, marking the largest legal recovery in maritime history. This settlement follows the catastrophic collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, which occurred after the ship struck the structure on March 26, 2024, resulting in the deaths of six construction workers. The agreement addresses claims against Singapore-based Grace Ocean Private Limited and Synergy Marine Pte. Ltd., encompassing damages related to the bridge’s destruction, environmental harm, lost toll revenues, and economic disruptions throughout the state.
Announced by Maryland’s Attorney General and legal representatives, the settlement exceeds the $43.7 million liability cap that the companies had sought under the Limitation of Liability Act of 1851. The deal comes just weeks before trial proceedings were set to begin to determine if the operators could invoke liability protections. While this agreement resolves Maryland’s claims against the ship’s owner and operator, it still leaves room for potential claims against other parties related to design and modifications of the vessel.
The situation intensified further when federal prosecutors unveiled criminal charges against Synergy Marine and its affiliates, alleging that the ship had been operated with unsafe modifications that compromised its electrical systems leading up to the disaster. Investigators pointed to critical failings, including reliance on non-redundant systems that contributed to electrical failures. The aftermath saw the Port of Baltimore shut down, with total economic damages exceeding $5 billion and considerable disruptions to regional supply chains.
Kelley Drye’s Partner William J. Jackson hailed the settlement as “historic,” emphasizing its importance for Maryland. Co-counsel David Reisman expressed hope that it would not only bring financial resolution but also help Maryland residents begin the process of rebuilding their lives, following the bridge’s devastation. Replacement costs for the bridge are projected to range between $4.3 billion and $5.2 billion, with anticipated completion around 2030.
Share it now
