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Atlanta Should Have Significant Bridge Collapse Concerns

By Grant Law Office on May 25, 2024

The bridge collapse that happened in Baltimore on March 26, 2024, has shed light on the severe consequences of infrastructure failure. This event caused widespread disruption, injuries, fatalities, and fear, prompting a thorough investigation into the cause of the collapse.

Initial reports suggested that a combination of factors contributed to the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore. Potential design flaws, maintenance lapses, and the strain of heavy traffic are all suspected of contributing to the failure.

That bridge collapse underscores the urgency of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure public safety. As bridge investigations continue, the findings will be critical in preventing similar catastrophes from taking place. For people living in Atlanta, it serves as a stark reminder of the hazards posed by aging and potentially neglected bridges, highlighting the need for proactive measures to safeguard against future incidents.

Several Bridges in Atlanta Are at Risk

Atlanta’s aging infrastructure presents a tangible risk for bridge collapses, with many local structures nearing the end of their designed lifespans. Experts are increasingly vocal about the potential dangers, pushing for comprehensive reviews and upgrades.

Recent inspections have revealed that several bridges in the region show signs of significant wear and tear, including corrosion, cracking, and other structural weaknesses. The city’s heavy traffic only exacerbates the issue, as daily stress on these bridges can lead to accelerated deterioration.

For residents and commuters in Atlanta, understanding these risks is essential, and there is a collective call for immediate action to prevent infrastructure-related disasters.

Atlanta’s Interstate 85 Bridge Collapse

The Interstate 85 Bridge collapse that occurred on March 30, 2017, had far-reaching consequences for the people of Atlanta. The immediate aftermath saw a surge in traffic congestion, with thousands of commuters forced to seek alternative routes, leading to longer travel times and increased transportation costs. This tragic event also had economic implications, affecting local businesses that suffered from decreased accessibility and patronage.

On a more personal level, the collapse disrupted lives, with a number of individuals experiencing significant trauma or physical injury. Many of the people who were injured from the bridge collapse were confronted with a long road to recovery, with mounting medical bills, lost wages, and physical and emotional pain. The right to seek compensation for these damages is a critical aspect of the legal process following such an incident.

The Potential for Another Bridge Collapse in Atlanta

The potential for a bridge collapse in Atlanta is firmly grounded in reality. With numerous bridges built over the last half century, the stress of modern traffic volumes and environmental factors are pushing these structures to their limits. Many of Atlanta’s bridges were not designed to handle the increased loads and traffic patterns of today. The looming matter is not if a collapse could happen but, rather, when it might occur.

Engineers and city planners are calling attention to the bridges that are classified as structurally deficient, urging for prioritized repairs or replacements. Continued inaction could lead to disastrous consequences, mirroring bridge failures seen in other cities. Highlighting the potential for such an event underscores the need for immediate, targeted infrastructure investment in Atlanta.

Proactive measures include regularly scheduled inspections and maintenance work prioritized by the condition and usage of bridges. Investing in modern materials and technologies can extend the life of existing structures and make them safer.

Transparent reporting and public awareness campaigns can also help the community understand the importance of these measures and support the necessary funding and political will. Training emergency response teams on how to manage potential collapses will also be vital in minimizing harm should a failure occur.

How to Determine Liability After a Bridge Collapse

After a bridge collapse, identifying the liable parties is a complex process that involves meticulous investigation. Liability may extend to various entities, including government agencies responsible for bridge maintenance, contractors tasked with construction and repairs, and engineers who designed the structure.

Determining who is at fault requires a deep dive into construction records, maintenance logs, and design plans. Expert testimony often plays a crucial role in these cases, as specialists can help pinpoint the failure’s cause and establish the negligence that led to the collapse. Holding the correct parties accountable is essential for victims who are seeking justice and compensation.

Thorough investigation and evidence gathering are foundational in building a strong case after a bridge collapse. This process begins with collecting all pertinent data from the collapse site, such as pieces of the bridge, to analyze for material failures. It’s equally important to secure bridge design documents, previous inspection reports, and maintenance records. Personal injury lawyers often work with forensic engineers and other experts who can reconstruct the incident and identify what caused the failure.

Our Personal Injury Attorneys Have Won Millions for Atlanta Clients

For over 20 years, Grant Law Office has dedicated our law practice to getting justice for accident victims in Atlanta. The exceptional trial attorneys at Grant Law Office can file a claim or lawsuit seeking damages against anyone whose negligent behavior contributed to your injuries.

Our partner, Wayne Grant, is proud to be in the top 5% of attorneys in Georgia, as chosen by his peers through independent research conducted by Super Lawyers. Attorney Wayne has also been selected as one of The Best Lawyers in America 2024 for Personal Injury Litigation by Best Lawyers.

Reach out to our Atlanta personal injury attorneys at (404) 995-3955 to schedule a free case review today.