A recent tragic ferry dock collapse on Sapelo Island, Georgia, has left many grieving for the loss of loved ones and struggling to recover from the traumatic injuries sustained. At least seven people lost their lives, and several others were critically injured after part of the ferry dock gave way during a celebration of the Gullah-Geechee community, a last-of-its-kind community of Black slave descendants.
This devastating event has left many questions unanswered, and while authorities continue their investigation into the cause of the collapse, those affected may have legal recourse.
At Morgan & Morgan, we stand with the victims and families of this heartbreaking incident. If you or someone you know has been affected by the Sapelo Island ferry dock collapse, you may be entitled to compensation. We encourage you to reach out to us so we can help you navigate the legal process and fight for the justice you deserve. Contact us for a free, no-obligation case evaluation to learn more about your options.
The Tragedy on Sapelo Island
On the afternoon of Saturday, October 19, 2024, more than 40 people were on the gangway of the Marsh Landing Dock when it unexpectedly collapsed, sending at least 20 people into the water. The collapse occurred during Cultural Day, an annual event celebrating the history and traditions of the Gullah-Geechee community. Among those killed was Charles Houston, a chaplain for multiple Georgia state agencies. Three other victims remain hospitalized in critical condition, and an investigation into the cause of the collapse is ongoing.
Authorities from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) stated that initial findings point to a “catastrophic failure” of the gangway. While it had been inspected less than a year ago, questions remain about the structural integrity and maintenance of the dock.
For the families of the deceased and survivors still grappling with serious injuries, this tragedy has caused immense pain and suffering. If negligence or poor maintenance played a role in the gangway's failure, the victims and their families may have grounds for legal action.
Can I File a Lawsuit After a Ferry Accident?
If you have been injured or lost a loved one in the Sapelo Island ferry dock collapse, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit. Legal claims in such cases are typically based on negligence, which means proving that the responsible parties failed to maintain safe conditions or adequately address known hazards.
In this case, potential defendants may include:
- The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, which operates the ferry dock and may be liable if the gangway’s structural failure was due to poor maintenance or inspection practices.
- Crescent Equipment Company, which inspected the gangway in December 2023, could also face liability if they failed to properly identify potential risks or weaknesses during the inspection.
What Kind of Compensation Can I Recover?
In personal injury or wrongful death lawsuits related to tragedies like this, victims or their surviving family members can seek compensation for:
Medical Expenses: Costs related to hospitalizations, surgeries, ongoing medical care, and rehabilitation.
Lost Wages: Compensation for wages lost due to injury recovery, or in the case of wrongful death, the loss of financial support for dependents.
Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and trauma caused by the incident.
Funeral and Burial Costs: For families of those who lost their lives, compensation may also cover funeral and burial expenses.
Loss of Companionship: Surviving family members may also be entitled to damages for the loss of companionship, guidance, and emotional support provided by their loved one.
At Morgan & Morgan, we understand that no amount of money can replace the lives lost or undo the trauma caused by this tragedy. However, filing a lawsuit can hold responsible parties accountable and ensure that you and your family are compensated for the profound losses you have suffered.
Steps to Take If You’ve Been Affected
If you were injured in the Sapelo Island ferry dock collapse or lost a loved one, there are critical steps to take to protect your rights and strengthen your potential case.
Whether your injuries are severe or seem minor, getting a thorough medical evaluation is essential. Medical records can serve as vital evidence in your case.
Collect as much information as possible about the incident, including photos, witness statements, and any official reports. This documentation can be crucial in establishing the facts of the case.
Finally, contact Morgan & Morgan and speak with one of our experienced personal injury attorneys as soon as possible. They can guide you through the legal process, handle communications with insurance companies, and investigate the cause of the collapse.
Morgan & Morgan Can Help
Morgan & Morgan is the largest personal injury law firm in the nation, and we have the resources, experience, and determination to take on complex cases like the Sapelo Island ferry dock collapse. With a history of fighting for the rights of the injured and securing over $20 billion in compensation, our attorneys are prepared to pursue justice for you and your family.
We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay anything unless we win your case. This allows you to focus on healing and rebuilding your life without the burden of upfront legal fees.
The Sapelo Island tragedy has left a community devastated, but you do not have to go through this difficult time alone. At Morgan & Morgan, we are committed to helping victims of negligence seek the justice and compensation they deserve.
If you or a loved one has been impacted by the ferry dock collapse, contact us today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. Our team will review the details of your situation and provide guidance on how to move forward with your claim.
Together, we can work toward holding those responsible accountable and ensuring that similar tragedies are prevented in the future. Call us now or fill out our online form to get started.