Special Compensation Fund Website for 35W Bridge Collapse Survivors is Live
Former Minnesota State Bar Association President Susan Holden greets visitors to the Special Compensation Process for Survivors of the I-35W Bridge Collapse website. Ms. Holden and two other Minnesota personal injury lawyers have agreed to serve as Special Masters (decisionmakers) in claims brought by bridge collapse victims.
On May 8, 2008, Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty signed a bill that set aside $37 million dollars to compensate injury victims. The new website provides survivors, and their families and lawyers, with useful resources, including an overview of the claims process, timelines, release forms, claims applications, answers to common questions, a calendar of hearing dates and biographical information about the Special Master panel.
Of importance, all claims must be filed with the State of Minnesota no later than October 15, 2008. Deadlines are strict and no extensions will be granted.