While I am in the office four days a week, I still enjoy extracurricular activities, just like most college students. I am a part of a sorority at the University of South Florida, and with Spring Break approaching—followed closely by Summer Break—I know that we college students love to travel and have fun. However, through my experience working with this firm, I have become more aware of how frequently accidents happen, especially while traveling and due to the general inexperience of young adults. But I am not here today to give you tips on how to stay safe during Spring Break. Instead, I want to highlight the importance of being prepared for the worst-case scenario.
Picture this: You’re going on a Spring Break trip with all of your college friends, and while on the trip, you or a friend suffers a serious injury. This could be from a car accident (we all know how common crashes are, especially with the increased number of drunk drivers during this time), a freak accident requiring surgery (like a shark attack that leaves you incapacitated), or even a life-threatening allergic reaction. If you are a legal adult, your parents do not automatically have the right to make medical decisions for you. If you are traveling, they may not even be able to reach you in time to assist. This is why it is critical to plan for situations like these.
As part of creating your estate plan, you will be asked to name a health care surrogate, who will have the authority to make medical decisions on your behalf if you are incapacitated. You will also sign a HIPAA release form, which allows your designated person to access your medical records. Additionally, you can create a digital asset access plan, which includes usernames and passwords for your online accounts so that your designated person can manage them if you are unable to do so. Another important step is outlining your medical and end-of-life preferences—such as whether you would want CPR performed, be placed on a ventilator, or have a preference for burial or cremation. While this may not be the most exciting topic, it is essential to ensure that your wishes are carried out and that someone you trust has the legal authority to act on your behalf.
If you choose to do nothing, your parents may face serious challenges if something happens to you. Without proper legal documentation, they may have to go through the probate process, which can be costly and time-consuming. Probate involves court proceedings, potential taxes on any property or assets you own, and a lack of privacy—since probate records are public. By taking preventive measures now, you can save your loved ones significant stress and financial burden while ensuring that your wishes are respected.
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