Following the tragic collapse of the Champlain Towers South condominium in Surfside, Florida, resulting in the confirmed deaths of 97 residents, efforts are underway to provide compensation to survivors and families of the victims. Some of the deceased individuals had to undergo DNA testing for proper identification. The issue of compensation has become paramount for those affected by this disaster.
Recently, Miami-Dade Circuit Judge Michael Hanzman made a significant ruling stating that survivors and families of the deceased will be entitled to a minimum of $150 million in compensation. Out of this total amount, $50 million will be obtained from the condominium’s insurance, while the remaining $100 million will be sourced from the sale of Surfside property. Judge Hanzman also emphasized that this compensation does not include any additional damages that may be awarded in ongoing lawsuits.
Expressing his priority for the victims, Judge Hanzman stated, “The court’s concern has always been the victims here. Their rights will be protected.”
#Surfside today pic.twitter.com/3PAhVv9UgG
— Senator Jason Pizzo (@senpizzo) July 21, 2021
There have been discussions among local organizations about transforming the collapse site into a memorial dedicated to the victims. However, Judge Hanzman rejected the idea of survivors having to donate their real estate for this purpose, citing that it would be unjust to ask this of them.
He remarked, “These victims who have lost their homes, their personal belongings, and in many cases their lives are not going to be sacrificing the value of their real estate for the public good.”
“In spite of differing opinions, the primary focus for this court and for you is to compensate the victims of this tragedy,” Hanzman emphasized to the attorneys during the proceedings.
While search and rescue operations are ongoing, the physical site of the collapse has been completely cleared of rubble. The debris has been relocated to another location for further investigation to identify any remaining remains.
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