Introduction
Bridge strikes involving commercial and military vessels are rare but serious incidents that can cause widespread damage, disrupt critical infrastructure, and lead to tragic loss of life. As global maritime traffic continues to grow and U.S. ports become increasingly congested, understanding the risks associated with vessel-to-bridge collisions is essential for improving safety and accountability.
Why Bridge Strikes Happen
Bridge strikes generally occur when a vessel’s height exceeds the vertical clearance of a fixed bridge or when navigational errors, environmental conditions, or mechanical failures prevent a vessel from maneuvering safely.
Common contributing factors include:
- Inaccurate clearance calculations: Bridge heights are typically referenced from mean high water levels. Misjudging tide or current conditions can reduce clearance and lead to collision.
- Mechanical failure: Loss of power or steering control during approach can prevent vessels from avoiding overhead obstacles.
- Poor communication: Breakdowns between port authorities, pilots, and ship crews may result in conflicting navigational instructions.
- Human error: Misreading charts, overlooking notices to mariners, or failing to account for antennae, masts, or cranes can cause contact with a bridge span.
- Congestion and environmental factors: Tight navigation lanes, fog, high winds, or fast-moving currents can increase the risk of impact.
High-Risk Locations in U.S. Waters
While most major U.S. ports are designed to accommodate large commercial and naval vessels, certain locations present elevated risk due to infrastructure constraints and dense traffic.
Some known high-risk zones include:
- East River, New York: Multiple low-clearance bridges and sharp bends in the waterway create a challenging environment for tall-masted or large ships.
- Port of Houston: Industrial density and complex traffic control make bridge approaches more sensitive to error.
- San Francisco Bay: Heavy ferry, cargo, and recreational traffic converge under major bridges like the Golden Gate and Bay Bridge.
- Port of New Orleans: Shifting Mississippi River currents and varied bridge structures demand constant vigilance by pilots.
Legal and Safety Implications
Bridge strikes can result in significant injury or death aboard vessels, along with damage to critical transportation infrastructure. The fallout often includes:
- Wrongful death and personal injury claims
- Multi-agency investigations involving the Coast Guard, NTSB, and local authorities
- Civil liability for negligent navigation, vessel maintenance, or oversight
- Diplomatic and jurisdictional challenges if the vessel is foreign-flagged
Injured parties may have grounds to pursue claims against:
- The vessel operator or owner
- Navigation or pilot service providers
- Port authorities if route clearance and guidance were deficient
- Maintenance contractors in the event of equipment failure
An experienced maritime accident attorney can help secure evidence, evaluate bridge clearance data, and hold all negligent parties accountable.
Preventing Future Bridge Strikes
To reduce the likelihood of future collisions, ports and vessel operators must invest in:
- Accurate real-time tide and clearance tracking
- Improved shipboard instrumentation and automated alerts
- Stronger coordination between bridge operators and vessel pilots
- Routine audits of port access charts and navigation protocols
Safety training, particularly for foreign crews unfamiliar with local waterways, is also essential in preventing catastrophic incidents.
Consult a Maritime Injury Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been injured in a maritime accident involving a bridge strike or vessel collision, Spagnoletti Law Firm can help. Our maritime attorneys have extensive experience with cases involving mechanical failure, infrastructure impacts, and multi-jurisdictional legal issues. Call 713-804-9306 today for a free consultation.