A tragedy at the Sapelo Island Ferry dock has left seven people dead and several others seriously injured, including three who remain hospitalized in critical condition.
On Saturday, October 19, approximately 200 people visited the island to celebrate its annual fall Cultural Day of the Gullah-Geechee residents. However, the celebratory day turned catastrophic when the ferry dock gangway ramp crumbled around 4:30 p.m., causing the 20 or more people waiting on the gangway to fall into the water.
Multiple emergency response agencies launched an immediate search and rescue operation using boats and helicopters. Other festivalgoers tried to help as well, jumping into the water to help rescue victims.
At this time, three people have not yet been accounted for, however, it is unclear if they fell into the water or left the island before the incident occurred.
What Caused the Dock to Collapse and Who May Be Liable for Victims’ Damages?
In an article from Georgia Public Broadcasting, McIntosh County Commissioner Roger Lotson stated, “The dock was less than a year old.” Lotson further speculated that it might have been the aluminum ramp that was damaged, rather than the dock.
The investigation into the cause of the collapse is ongoing to determine the cause. Liability may fall to Georgia State Department of Natural Resources since it owns and maintains the dock.
Are You Eligible to File an Injury Claim for Yourself or a Loved One?
If you or a loved one were seriously or fatally injured in the Sapelo Ferry dock collapse, you may be eligible to recover compensation for the medical costs, pain and suffering and other losses. Deadlines apply, however, so it is critical to seek legal help as soon as possible.
How Long Do I Have to File a Legal Claim in Georgia?
Cases resulting from this incident are likely going to be against the state, which means the statute of limitations – your deadline to file – is much shorter. According to Georgia Code § 5-21-26, claims against the state must be filed within 12 months.
This means that if you are a victim of the Sapelo Island Ferry dock collapse, you must file your claim before the statute of limitations expires, which would be on Oct. 19, 2025.
One year from the incident date may seem long, but the legal process quickly eats up those 12 months. Additionally, your attorney needs time to build a solid case on your behalf. It is also critical that your attorney is able to inspect the dock and other key evidence before it is lost or destroyed.
Were You Involved in the Sapelo Ferry Dock Collapse? Roden Law Is Ready to Help
At Roden Law, we are here to help you and your loved ones after the losses sustained in this devastating incident. Sadly, compensation cannot change what you have witnessed and gone through, but it can help to pay for the medical costs and other damages you have sustained.
Our Brunswick personal injury attorneys are compassionate and have extensive experience helping injured victims recover favorable outcomes so they can begin to move forward with their lives. Our legal team is prepared to fully guide you through the legal process.
Call today to speak to one of our attorneys: 1-844-RESULTS.