Rhode Island Judge Allows Washington Bridge Lawsuit to Proceed

A Rhode Island Superior Court judge has allowed the state's lawsuit against 13 companies involved in the Washington Bridge project to proceed, denying motions to dismiss breach of contract claims. The lawsuit alleges inadequate performance and failure to identify structural issues that led to the bridge's closure. While most claims can move forward, the judge indicated claims of negligence might be dismissed unless additional property damage beyond the bridge is shown. Meanwhile, two wrongful-death lawsuits related to surgeries performed by Dr. Yvon Baribeau at Catholic Medical Center will proceed, as the judge denied the hospital's dismissal request. The lawsuits argue the hospital was negligent in allowing Baribeau to operate despite high mortality rates. The hospital contends the suits are barred by statute limitations, but plaintiffs argue the limit should start from the time of injury discovery.