What’s a Life Worth?

          The state of Minnesota has decided to pay the victims of the bridge collapse, on Interstate 35, last fall in Minneapolis.   The agreement is costing $38 million dollars.   The bridge fell, taking 13 people to their deaths.   It happened during rush hour traffic.  

          One hundred and fourty five people were injured.  It took up to three weeks to recover all of the bodies burried under the tangled metal and debris.   I remember watching the news on television; seeing those images and wondering how the family and friends could stand the waiting.   How does a goverment body, or an insurance company determine how much a life is worth?  I have a hard time understanding how they can arrive at a financial number that compensates a victim, or their families; for this kind of loss.  I do understand that they must try…but, what an awesome responsibility that must be!

        The bridge had been under construction before the collapse.  It allegedly had construction supplies stacked on the bridge.  The National Transportation Safety Board has been investigating the tragedy since the collapse trying to determine the cause.  Many have speculated that the bridge was over the weight limit because of heavy traffic as well as construction vehicles and supplies.  Others have suggested that the bridge had design flaws; as well as, the metal was possibly corroded from bird droppings, and therefore it was weakened. 

         It sounds as if the victims will receive $400,000; for those who were more extensively injured, there is additional funds to help with their medical expenses.  No matter what, the victim’s families who lost their loved ones in such a public way; will no doubt rather have their loved one with them than  receive financial compensation.  After all…who can possibly determine what a life is worth?  

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Uncle Sam, Show Me The Money!

         With all of the hype in the news; many taxpayers expected to be at least $600 dollars richer this past week.  Even though the government sent out the direct deposit payments ahead of schedule…some people are asking Uncle Sam…where is my money…show me the money!

           There may be a few explanations about the delay for why some people have not received their stimulus checks.  If you had to pay in taxes…you won’t be getting your check right away…your check will come later in the summer.  If you owe back child support or student loans…your stimulus rebate check will be reduced by the amount you owe!   Ouch, that hurts!   If you filed a RAL or Refund Anticipation Loan, then your stimulus rebate check will be mailed to you, instead of direct deposit.

          Sad but true, some people went out and spent their money before they even got it…thinking, it would just be there in their account when they needed it.  Never, ever, ever make that mistake…don’t ya know…things happen?  

          I know, I know…everyone is doing their very best to tempt you to spend what you got coming, at their place of business.   All i am saying is…don’t spend a penny until you have that check in your hot little hands…no matter how much you want to!  It could get ugly; some people are frustrated, it is just going to take a little time.

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