Law Office Of William F Underwood - April 2020

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Justice MONTHLY

229-888-0888 • www.puttingpeoplefirst.law

APRIL 2020

Preserving Georgia DOING OUR PART TO HELP THE LOCAL AND GLOBAL ENVIRONMENT

M y mom lived in Colorado for 20 years, and I However, Georgia always has. There’s no view in the world as beautiful as the one seen driving along a backcountry road in the cotton fields where trees dot the skyline in the distance as the sun sets on another perfect Georgia day. We’re spoiled in Georgia. Having flat farm fields, mountainous regions, and a coast, there's pretty much any view you could hope for. Though I might be a little biased because I grew up here, I have always believed Georgia has some of the prettiest views in the world. Recently, my staff and I committed to preserving the local landscape and these views. We received a message from Keep Albany Dougherty Beautiful (KADB) that described an opportunity to participate in a recycling program with the city. We jumped at the chance, and now we are waiting for our bins to arrive and to receive training on what's recyclable. It’s our office’s first step in actually working toward a sustainable operation. I’m looking forward to discovering even more ways we can do our part for the environment. As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Earth Day this month, I can’t help but think we could be doing more. Anything we can do to create less waste is a big step, and I think, as Earth Day has become more recognized and celebrated, we are becoming more conscious of our impact on the planet. I believe we all need to make greater efforts to help the environment and to preserve it for future generations. When I lived in Jacksonville, Florida, years ago, I saw the tremendous efforts the community was doing to “go green” and decrease its carbon footprint. Granted, Jacksonville is larger than Albany, and these programs take a lot of work to start. Even always enjoyed visiting her at her home among the Rocky Mountains. I couldn’t deny that it was beautiful, and I understand why my mom wanted to live there. But it never felt like “home.”

Lookout Mountain, GA

though we may be a little late — and this is true across the globe, not just locally — I know that if we band together, we can make a difference. And as the dedicated people of KADB have shown, there are many citizens in our community who care about this effort. If you’re concerned about our environment and want to do your part, please give our office a call! We offer free reusable totes to our clients, and we’d love to give you one too! These totes are a great alternative to traditional plastic bags, which continue to pollute our oceans and land. It may seem like a small step forward, but even the smallest ripples can make the biggest waves.

Together, we can preserve Georgia and its gorgeous views. Thank you for your help, and happy Earth Day!

-William F. “Trey” Underwood, III

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WHAT MAKES A PET A HERO? MY COOL DOG

THE CARE YOU DESERVE Finding the Right Doctor After a Workplace Injury It can be earth-shattering to be injured on the job. Your career offers you a steady paycheck and a consistent schedule, but a workplace injury can change all that. You may be left wondering where your next paycheck will come from and how you can afford everyday expenses. At the Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C., we understand this concern, but our main goal is to make sure recovery is your top priority. We want to take care of your stress and get you the claim you deserve. Your main focus should be on recovering, and that includes finding the right doctor to lead you through it. As a guest writer for this newsletter, I’ve had the chance to cover some truly heroic pets. From Conan, the Belgian Malinois who helped in the fight against the Islamic State group, to Tama, the stray cat who saved a railway station in Japan, I’ve shared some incredible stories of animals that gained fame through their selflessness. But have you heard of my cool dog? My dog’s name is Rusty, and he has not saved a single train station. He really isn’t one for cats either, but I’d like to think he’d make an exception for Tama. That being said, my dog does have some qualities that make him newsletter worthy. Despite his name, Rusty’s the fastest frisbee catcher at the local dog park. Of course, he doesn't usually want to give the disc back once he’s caught it — he takes pride in his work! But my dog, like any hero, has more talents than just physical prowess. He selflessly provides me with important reminders! Just as Lilou the therapy pig reminds travelers in the San Francisco International Airport to relax, Rusty reminds me to never leave the TV remote in an easy-to-reach location. I swear he chews them up like candy. And the brains on this dog are really something else. Sure, African giant pouched rats have been trained to sniff out land mines — saving dozens of lives — but ol’ Rust took just two weeks to become housebroken. I’m pretty sure that makes him

some sort of genius. Plus he doesn’t drool nearly as much as my ex’s Newfoundland.

Okay, so maybe none of that is on par with saving lives, fighting terrorism, or even just keeping a rural train station in business. Maybe Rusty is just a goofy mix with a big, lovable grin. But he’s my goofy mix, and one who loves getting me to grin along with him. That seems pretty heroic to me. Any pet can be a hero in the eyes of its owner. If you have a pet half as cool as Rusty, send our team an email and tell us about them!

pertinent information about the healing process and what you may be able to expect from workers’ compensation.

Unfortunately, Georgia law dictates that employers must select a lineup of approved physicians for employees to see after a workplace injury. Other states have done away with this law, allowing employees to choose their own practitioners for care. Though this Georgia law excludes emergencies, those seeking care after a nonemergency workplace injury must choose from this select pool of doctors. We recommend that you consult with an attorney prior to seeking medical attention unless an emergency or pain prevents you from doing so. Your attorney can help you determine which doctor is the best option for you, your care, and your compensation, and if you need to change doctors, they can advise you on the best way to go about this change. Workers’ compensation can be complicated, and an attorney can ensure you are receiving proper treatment and the compensation you deserve. To learn more about the complexities of workers’ compensation law, visit PuttingPeopleFirst.law. Call our team to get the help you deserve so you can focus on healing after your workplace injury.

Your doctor can be crucial in determining the benefits you receive after a workplace injury. They will help you figure out how much time you need to take off following an injury and to what extent the injury may affect your future. This will give you

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Ride Smarter

WITH THESE SPRING MOTORCYCLE SAFETY TIPS

April showers bring May flowers, but this month also marks the start of another important season: riding season! Georgia winters may not keep motorcycle riders off their bikes for long, but nothing compares to a warm spring or summertime ride through the gorgeous Georgia landscape. Before you hit the road this season, follow this safety checklist to ensure your ride is up to speed. Check the Mechanics A maintenance check is required any time your bike sits in storage for an extended period of time. This spring, check fuel and brake lines, battery power, lights, and tire pressure. ( Pro tip: Colder air decreases the pressure in your tires. Even if your bike hasn’t moved, it may need a fill-up!) A mechanic can provide you with a complete maintenance overview and checkup, but a simple drive around the block can also tell you a lot about your ride. Test your bike with short trips before taking it on a long haul. Update Your Insurance It’s not uncommon for bikers to pause motorcycle insurance when riding season is over. It makes smart fiscal sense, but it can also cause issues come spring. Be sure to reinstate your motorcycle insurance

and verify with the insurance company that you have the

proper paperwork on file and an up-to-date insurance card at hand. Upgrade Your Gear

We Value You! At the Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C., the trust we build with our clients is our most valuable asset. To show our appreciation, we would like to thank our clients who have referred others to us since our March newsletter. Your recommendations are greatly treasured by everyone at our office. Clients can also leave their comments on our services through Google reviews ! These statements give us critical feedback and help other clients facing stressful life situations find dependable lawyers. Previous and current clients can also receive free notary services at our office. Learn more about this service by giving us a call at 229-888-0888. Your gear can protect you just as much as a well-functioning bike can, especially as you share the road with motorists and other bikers. Make sure you are wearing bright or visible colors as you ride, and always wear a helmet. Your helmet should be replaced every few years and should fit snug on your head. As a general rule, if you can slide your fingers in between your forehead and your helmet, it needs to be tightened or you need a new one. There’s nothing quite like that first ride after a season off the road, but no matter how much you prepare, accidents can still happen. If you or a loved one is injured in a motorcycle accident this spring, give our team at the Law Office of William F. Underwood, III, P.C. a call at 229-888-0888. Learn more safety tips online at PuttingPeopleFirst.law.

EASTER LAMB CAKE

Ingredients •

2 1/4 cups cake flour 2 1/2 tsp baking powder

• • • •

1/2 cup butter

• • •

1 cup milk

1/2 tsp salt

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 1/4 cups granulated sugar

4 egg whites

equipment • Directions 1.

1 lamb-shaped, 3D cake mold

Heat oven to 375 F. Coat lamb cake mold with vegetable oil and wipe clean after a few minutes. Then grease again and flour cake mold. 2. In a bowl, sift cake flour, then sift flour again with baking powder and salt. Set aside. 3. In a large bowl, beat sugar and butter together to form a batter. 4. Add flour mixture and milk to the batter alternately. 5. Stir batter until smooth and add vanilla extract. 6. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. 7. Fold 1/3 of egg whites into batter mixture, then fold in the remaining whites. 8. Fill cake mold with batter and avoid air pockets. Place the lid on the cake mold, secure it tightly, and place it on a cookie sheet. Bake for 1 hour. 9. Let cake cool completely before decorating with frosting, candy, and edible Easter grass.

Thank you for trusting us to serve you!

Inspired by AllRecipes.com

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PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411

229-888-0888 www.puttingpeoplefirst.law

1918 DAWSON RD. ALBANY, GA 31707

inside Celebrate Earth Day With Us! PAGE 1

The Newest Pet Hero PAGE 2

Finding the Right Doctor After an Injury PAGE 2

Motorcycle Safety Tips as You Hit the Road Again PAGE 3

Easter Lamb Cake PAGE 3

The Best Locations for Spring Blooms PAGE 4

In These Beautiful Locations SEE SPRING BLOOM

CRESTED BUTTE

Spring is here, which means beautiful flowers are finally showing themselves after a long winter. Here are some of the best places in the U.S. to see flower blossoms and welcome the season.

Crested Butte, Colorado, is best known for its winter sports and summer hikes. But recently it has drawn the attention of flower enthusiasts for its unique pink, orange, and gold alpine wildflowers that appear in the spring. This natural phenomenon even inspired the creation of the annual Wildflower Festival in midsummer, which features nature walks, art, photography, culinary experiences, and more. For a truly unique experience, you can even ascend the town’s titular Crested Butte to spot some rare alpine sunflowers next to the picturesque West Elk Mountains.

orange, yellow, and red poppies in the spring. Warm temperatures and heavy rainfall across Southern California during this time of year create a brief period of thick blooms as far as the eye can see. And while the poppies can be enjoyed from the comfort of your car, the best way to experience them is to walk the leisurely Antelope Loop Trail for a breathtaking, up- close adventure. Spring flora is gorgeous and naturally attracts large crowds of people every year. If you plan to visit any of these destinations, just remember that their ecosystems are delicate. Respect park signs, stay on designated trails, and do your part to make sure these flowers return year after year for future generations to enjoy.

GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park stretches across North Carolina and Tennessee, and while its scenery is beautiful year-round, the park is especially alluring to nature enthusiasts during the spring. Through this season, miles of lady’s-slipper orchids, irises, cardinal flowers, and lilies dot its lush green landscape. It’s dubbed “Wildflower National Park” throughout this time of year, and you can experience it by car or on foot. The park also offers expert-led tours that weave through the flowers during their peak bloom.

ANTELOPE VALLEY

The California Poppy Reserve in Lancaster, California, is a 1,780-acre park that features sloping hills covered with fields of vibrant

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