Sapelo Island Dock Collapse Lawyer

Millions in Compensation Recovered for Victims

The Law Office of Joshua W. Branch, LLC is currently investigating potential claims from victims and families who suffered injuries and losses in the collapse of a ferry deck gangway on Sapelo Island. 

A devastating tragedy that killed at least seven victims and critically injured six others, the Sapelo Island ferry dock collapse has left many families devastated. Now, as officials work to investigate the collapse and uncover the cause, victims and families are exploring their legal options. 

At The Law Office of Joshua W. Branch, LLC, we’re readily available to discuss your rights, legal options, and how we can help you navigate the legal journey ahead. Our firm proudly works with clients across Georgia and handles claims on contingency, which means there’s no cost to hire and no fee unless we win. 

If you were injured or lost a loved one in the Sapelo Island ferry dock collapse, our award-winning lawyers can help. Call (706) 760-9220 or contact us online to request a FREE consultation.

About the Sapelo Island Ferry Dock Collapse

On October 20, 2024, tragedy struck as a ferry dock near Sapelo Island, Georgia, collapsed during a celebration honoring the island’s small Gullah-Geechee community. According to officials from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, as many as seven victims were killed and several others were injured. 

Initial reports from official sources indicate that structural deficiencies or a lack of maintenance may have played a role in the incident. Ongoing investigations are focusing on uncovering the root causes, including whether the dock’s infrastructure had been properly inspected or maintained. The collapse has sparked widespread concern, and experts are scrutinizing whether any warning signs were missed prior to the incident. As these investigations continue, attention will be placed on identifying the parties who could be held accountable for any negligence or oversight that contributed to the unsafe conditions.

This incident, which occurred during a meaningful cultural event, has left a lasting impact on the Gullah-Geechee community and its visitors. Families affected by the collapse are now seeking answers and justice, and those responsible may be held liable for the tragic outcome.

Victims’ Rights After the Sapelo Island Ferry Dock Collapse

If you or a loved one were affected by the ferry dock collapse, you may have the right to pursue legal action to seek compensation for your injuries or loss. Victims and families could be entitled to file either a personal injury claim or a wrongful death claim, depending on their circumstances.

• Personal Injury Claims: If you were injured in the collapse, you may have grounds to seek compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. To win a personal injury claim, you need to prove that the collapse was caused by negligence or unsafe conditions, such as inadequate maintenance or a failure to warn of potential risks.
• Wrongful Death Claims: If you lost a loved one in this tragic event, you may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit. This type of claim seeks compensation for the emotional and financial burdens placed on families, including funeral expenses and loss of companionship. To prevail, it must be proven that negligence or a preventable issue led to your loved one’s death.

Do I Have a Sapelo Island Ferry Dock Collapse Lawsuit?

Determining whether you have a claim following the Sapelo Island ferry dock collapse depends on several factors. You may have a potential case if:

• You or a loved one were injured in the collapse and required medical attention.
• A loved one tragically lost their life in the collapse, leaving your family to bear the emotional and financial burdens.
• The collapse was caused by structural deficiencies, lack of maintenance, or another form of negligence.
• You have incurred financial losses due to the incident, including medical bills, lost income, and other related expenses.

Determining whether you have grounds to file a lawsuit can be challenging. At The Law Office of Joshua W. Branch, LLC, our team is available to discuss the facts surrounding your potential case and whether we can assist you in taking the next steps toward justice. 

Compensation for Victims of the Ferry Dock Collapse

Victims of the ferry dock collapse may be entitled to recover compensation for:

• Medical Expenses: Costs associated with treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing care.
• Lost Wages: Income lost due to the inability to work while recovering from injuries.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional distress caused by the incident.
• Funeral and Burial Expenses: For families who lost a loved one, compensation may be available for these costs.
• Loss of Companionship: Families who lost loved ones may seek damages for the emotional impact and loss of companionship.

Potentially Liable Parties in the Ferry Dock Collapse

As investigations continue, several parties may be held liable for the ferry dock collapse. Potentially responsible entities include:

• Dock Owners and Operators: If the collapse was due to improper maintenance or neglect by those responsible for operating the ferry dock, they may be held liable.
• Construction or Maintenance Companies: If faulty construction or improper maintenance contributed to the collapse, these entities may also be liable.
• Government Agencies: In some cases, public agencies responsible for oversight or inspections may be held accountable if it is determined that their failure to act contributed to unsafe conditions.

Liability in these cases can be complex, but our firm will work tirelessly to identify all responsible parties and hold them accountable.