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?
Write where you are 