In the wake of a fatal crash involving cyclists in the Leningrad Region, a respected criminal lawyer described the rights of relatives to obtain compensation for both moral and material losses. The legal expert emphasized that families can pursue civil actions alongside ongoing criminal proceedings, seeking restitution for the pain and financial impact caused by the loss of a loved one. He noted that claims for moral damages cover distress, reputational harm, and emotional suffering, while material damages may include funeral costs, medical bills, and any financial support that the deceased would have provided. The client’s family may bring the civil claim against the investigator as part of the criminal case, and the court will consider both matters concurrently in the same proceedings. The final compensation depends on individual assessments of the relatives’ losses and the severity of the impact on their lives. The lawyer also pointed out that funeral arrangements and immediate needs, such as medications for beneficiaries, can form part of the claim where appropriate, with the court evaluating these expenses in light of the overall damages suffered by the relatives. (citation: regional legal practice and civil procedure guidelines)
The crash occurred around 10:40 am in the Vyborgsky district on the 59th kilometer of the Scandinavian highway in the Leningrad Region. A 31-year-old truck driver was at the wheel when the incident unfolded. Two female students lost their lives at the scene, and seven athletes along with their trainers sustained injuries. A criminal case was opened to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident. (citation: regional traffic incident reports)
Previously, it was stated by the same legal expert that the driver could face a potential prison term of several years, depending on the findings of the investigation and the severity of the charges. The discussion around possible sentences underscores the importance of timely legal action by relatives who seek both accountability and compensation through civil avenues. The attorney also highlighted that while criminal penalties can be imposed, civil remedies remain a separate channel through which families can obtain restitution for the harm suffered. (citation: court sentencing guidelines and civil action precedents)