The Benson Theatre is preparing to host a silent auction and memorial concert in memory of Prestin and Zaiden Strassenburg, two young boys who died from injuries suffered in a July crash in west Omaha. According to prosecutors, the collision occurred at 114th Street and West Center Road when a driver traveling at a high rate of speed, allegedly impaired by alcohol and drugs, struck the vehicle the boys were riding in. In the months since, the intersection’s turn signals have been changed, and a roadside memorial still stands nearby.<\/p>\n
The event, organized by someone with a personal connection to the boys, will raise funds for the family’s medical and funeral costs, with any remaining proceeds supporting advocacy for stronger impaired-driving laws. The silent auction runs from 4 to 6 p.m., followed by a concert from 7 to 11 p.m. on September 19. Our thoughts are with the Strassenburg family and everyone touched by this loss.<\/p>\n
When a crash involves suspected impaired driving, two separate legal processes can unfold. The criminal case is brought by the State of Nebraska to hold a driver accountable through fines, license consequences, or jail. A civil claim, on the other hand, is filed by the injured victims or a family who has lost a loved one, and it seeks financial compensation for the harm they suffered.<\/p>\n
These processes are independent. A criminal conviction is not required for a family to pursue a civil claim, and the outcomes of one do not automatically decide the other. Many families are surprised to learn that even while a criminal case is still moving through the courts, they may have the right to pursue a civil action of their own.<\/p>\n
Nebraska law allows certain family members to bring a wrongful death claim when a loved one dies because of another person’s negligence. These claims are typically filed by the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate on behalf of surviving family members, such as parents, spouses, or children.<\/p>\n
A wrongful death claim may seek compensation for losses such as:<\/p>\n
Nebraska also places time limits, known as statutes of limitations, on when these claims can be filed. Because those deadlines can be shorter than people expect, it is important for grieving families to understand their options sooner rather than later, even when the last thing they want to think about is paperwork.<\/p>\n
In the aftermath of a devastating crash, families are focused on grief and healing, not legal strategy. That is completely understandable. Still, a few missteps can make it harder to protect a family’s rights later on.<\/p>\n
Community events like the one at the Benson Theatre are a powerful reminder that no family should feel alone after a tragedy. Beyond the support of neighbors and friends, it can also help to understand the legal protections available to you.<\/p>\n
If you or someone you love has been seriously injured, or if your family has lost a loved one in a crash caused by another driver, the team at Johnson Tabor & Johnson is here to listen. We offer free, no-pressure consultations to help you understand your rights. You can reach us at (402) 506-4444<\/a> or through our contact page whenever you are ready to talk.<\/p>\n
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