On April 6^th, A Greek bulker owned by the Bariba Group broke free from its moorings and drifted uncontrolled across the Mississippi River. The Privocean, an 81,434 dwt bulker, destroyed parts of the dock it was moored at, spilled about 10 barrels of oil into the river, and crushed a tug boat against a tanker.

Once secured, the ship was anchored at Grandview Anchorage downstream from the accident site, and on April 13^th, the ship was arrested by U.S. marshals. Authorities are pursuing $40 million in damages, and the 116,014 dwt tanker Bravo seeks $10 million in damages. Crescent Towing & Salvage, the owner of the tug Texas which was smashed between the Bravo and Privocean, seeks a lien on the rogue bulker. The company also claims that three of its other vessels were damaged in the accident.

What Can I Do If My Property is Destroyed In a Maritime Accident?

This video, featuring maritime trial lawyer Dave Anderson, explains one of the complications that can arise from a boat collision such as this.

The Privocean will likely seek limitation of liability, but there are many parties who were wronged in this suit. Were workers injured when the docks were destroyed? Were the crewmen of the bulker somehow negligent when the ship went out of control? In complex maritime accidents involving multiple parties, having knowledgeable counsel experienced in maritime law is crucial. Our firm has experience with collision accidents, maritime injuries, and the laws that govern waterborne vessels. If you need help after a maritime incident, speak with our attorneys and learn your rights.

Latti & Anderson LLP—Nationwide Maritime Attorneys