At least 32 people were transported to local hospitals after a tanker collided with a docked river cruise ship on the Mississippi River in New Orleans on Friday afternoon, sending dozens of passengers and crew members into the water as the boat capsized.
If you or a loved one were injured in the tanker crash, your health and recovery comes first. But you need to act fast to protect your rights and your future. Our Maritime Accident Lawyers are here to help you navigate the next steps.
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Tanker Crashes Into Riverboat During Disembarkation
The incident occurred at approximately 12:30 p.m. on Friday, November 13, when the Atlantic Asphalt tanker collided with the American Cruise Lines riverboat American Heritage at the Port of New Orleans. The passenger vessel was docked outside 1350 Port of New Orleans Place, near the Crescent City Connection bridge, when the tanker struck.
Approximately 129 passengers and additional crew members were aboard the American Heritage at the time. The riverboat had already docked and was in the process of disembarking passengers when the tanker crashed into it.
The impact caused the five-story riverboat to take on water and begin listing. Within minutes, the vessel began listing onto its side and became partially submerged, throwing passengers and crew members into the Mississippi River as they attempted to escape.
32 People Sent to Hospitals After Tanker Crash
Federal, state, and local agencies immediately launched a massive search-and-rescue operation. Firefighters, police officers, Coast Guard personnel, tugboat operators, port workers, and crews aboard nearby vessels worked together to pull people from the water and evacuate those still aboard the damaged vessel.
At least 32 people were transported to local hospitals for treatment. No fatalities or critical injuries were reported. Authorities later confirmed that all 180 passengers and crew members aboard the American Heritage had been accounted for. Gov. Jeff Landry of Louisiana called the response a “literal miracle on the Mississippi.”
The American Red Cross also responded to provide water, blankets, and emotional support to those affected by the collision.
The U.S. Coast Guard temporarily closed the Mississippi River to vessel traffic between mile markers 93 and 96 while emergency crews conducted rescue operations. Ferry service across the river was also suspended as a precaution.
Tanker Reportedly Lost Steering Before Collision
The cause of the collision remains under investigation. The U.S. Coast Guard reported that the tanker appeared to have experienced “some type of a loss of steering” before striking the docked passenger vessel. A river pilot was navigating the tanker at the time.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Coast Guard are investigating the crash to determine what caused the collision and whether mechanical problems or other factors contributed.
Additional details about the circumstances leading up to the crash have not yet been released
What Should You Do If You Were Injured in the New Orleans Riverboat Collision?
Being involved in a serious vessel collision is traumatic and overwhelming. If you were aboard the American Heritage or injured in the New Orleans tanker collision, taking the following steps can help protect your health and your legal rights:
- Seek immediate medical attention: Even if you were able to escape the vessel without obvious injuries, seek medical evaluation as soon as possible. Falls, impacts, near-drowning incidents, and exposure to cold water can cause injuries that are not immediately apparent.
- Report your injuries: Make sure emergency responders and the appropriate vessel representatives know about your injuries. Request copies of any available incident or medical reports.
- Document what happened: Write down everything you remember about the collision, including where you were aboard the riverboat, what happened immediately before and after impact, and how you were injured.
- Preserve evidence: Keep photographs, videos, medical records, discharge instructions, receipts, and any communications related to the collision and your injuries.
- Get contact information from witnesses: If possible, obtain the names and contact information of other passengers, crew members, and anyone who witnessed the collision or its aftermath.
- Speak with a maritime accident attorney: An attorney will help you understand which laws apply to your situation, identify every responsible party, and determine what compensation you may be entitled to pursue.
Most importantly, don’t assume that because you survived the collision, you don’t have a case. You deserve answers, accountability, and the medical care and financial support you need to move forward.
Who May Be Responsible for a Tanker and Passenger Vessel Collision?
Determining who is responsible for a maritime collision requires a thorough investigation into the circumstances leading up to the crash. Depending on the evidence, multiple parties may share responsibility for a vessel collision, including:
- The tanker operator or vessel owner: If negligent vessel operation, inadequate maintenance, or failure to address known mechanical problems contributed to the collision.
- The tanker pilot or crew: If errors in navigation, failure to follow proper procedures, or other negligent actions contributed to the crash.
- The passenger vessel operator: If failures involving vessel operations, safety procedures, or emergency response contributed to passengers’ injuries.
- Maintenance companies or equipment manufacturers: If defective steering systems, faulty equipment, or negligent maintenance played a role in the collision.
Passengers and crew may be protected under different laws. No matter who you are, get in touch with a skilled maritime lawyer right away. At Zehl & Associates, we are recognized for our excellence at maritime litigation, including a recent $16 Million Maritime Settlement, the #1 Maritime Settlement in Texas.
Undefeated Maritime Accident Attorneys: 1-888-603-3636 for a Free Consult.
Our Maritime Accident Attorneys continue to monitor the tanker collision in New Orleans and will provide updates as information becomes available.
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