The Impact of the Key Bridge Collapse on Local Business: A Legal Battle for Justice and Restoration

The Dali ship, Grace Ocean Private Limited and Synergy Marine PTE, have been sued by American Publishing LLC owners Karen Austin and Charles Austin Jr. in connection with the Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore. The lawsuit claims that their business was directly impacted by the bridge collapse.

The Francis Scott Key Bridge is strategically important to local businesses that relied on it for the transportation of goods. The collapse of the bridge has significantly affected the Austins’ business, causing their income to decline by 84% in April 2024 compared to the previous year.

Karen and Charles Austin are seeking to have the lawsuit declared as a class action, allowing other businesses affected by the bridge collapse to join in the legal action. However, Grace Ocean Private Limited and Synergy Marine PTE have denied all allegations and have requested the court to cap the damages that can be awarded in the case.

The lawsuit highlights the interconnected nature of local commerce and infrastructure, underscoring the impact that the bridge collapse has had on businesses in the area.