Victims Statement
Before this manmade disaster occurred, the survivors were functioning, generally healthy individuals who worked, went to school, or otherwise provided for themselves.
This tragedy, and the pain and injuries that people have suffered, was preventable. The reason for the collapse of this bridge was not due to natural forces or to any driver’s action or inaction. This was not a car accident. We were all innocent people trying to get from point A to point B.
This was a failure of the worst kind by those who were supposed to keep us safe. The collapse was likely caused by neglect, as year after year, bridge maintenance was done “on the cheap” (Star Tribune, Nick Coleman, 8/6/2007) and repairs were skipped entirely (MN/DOT inspection reports).
This bridge was funded by public taxpayer monies, and had the State properly cared for this bridge, it would not be faced with a bill to help survivors pick up the pieces. While the purpose of this forum is not to dwell on blame, we remind officials of our great State that it had a responsibility to the public to maintain this bridge and keep it from falling down, and in doing so, ensure the safety of its citizens.
While we believe that the inaction of the State will come to light with time, the State can take a positive step to begin to right an egregious wrong.
This incident was unique and unprecedented both in its scope (affected many people) and its nature (the road failed beneath us). The citizens of Minnesota have demonstrated their generosity in giving to the MN Helps Bridge Disaster Fund and we thank them sincerely. We now ask the State of Minnesota to be part of the solution.
Objective
To secure short and long-term aid that provides for the recovery of victims
Short-term
Medical bills for physical injuries and all associated expenses such as mileage and parking for travel to and from doctor appointments, home healthy aides, in home medical care, physical therapy, occupational therapy, transitional care, medical supplies, renovations to make a home accessible, chiropractic, and alternative wellness therapies such as acupuncture, Pilates, or yoga; economic losses such as wage loss of the survivor or the survivor’s caregiver, or loss of the ability to perform a job that was held before injuries were sustained; and property loss not covered by insurance.
For next of kin, all associated costs related to the passing of their loved one including but not limited to burial and cremation, funeral home expenses, obituaries, financial aid as they face life with half their normal household income, and social assistance and grief counseling.
Long-term
Survivors will need the State's assistance to ensure that 1 year from now, 5 years from now, and 20 years from now, they are not financially ruined by medical expenses they cannot foresee.
