Armstrong Law - September 2024

Let’s Hurkle-Durkle

THE CATHARSIS OF LOUNGING ABOUT

After being subjected to the severely idiotic and overwhelmingly disappointing series finale of “Game of Thrones,” I hurkle-durkled. No, I did not just have a hairball. The word “hurkle-durkle” comes to us from the “Dictionaries of the Scots Language,” meaning “to lie in bed or lounge about when one should be up and about.” Despite being around for centuries, “hurkle-durkle” was propelled into the modern lexicon after a video pointing out its existence went viral on TikTok. That video has garnered millions of views, and the term quickly spread to countless other videos. But it’s not just a funny word that has captured the public’s imagination; it is the movement — or lack thereof — it represents. Emulating the Sloth Everyone is guilty of lazing in bed without any intention of actually sleeping. Beds are comfortable, and the warm embrace of silky sheets helps whisk away the day’s worries. When people on TikTok heard “hurkle-durkle,” they immediately saw the opportunity to co- opt the word and incorporate it into their vocabulary and routines.

People have begun hurkle- durkling in the morning or on the weekend to de-stress and recuperate. But is lounging about in bed good for your health, or should hurkle-durkle have remained in the pages of a distant and dusty dictionary? Test Your Hurkle-Durkle

The only way to find out if hurkle-durkling is for you is to hurkle-durkle yourself. If you set aside time in your schedule to hurkle-durkle and find that languishing in bed is cathartic, then yes, you should hurkle- durkle more often. But you should be wary that spending too much time hurkle-durkling may cause you to feel depressed. Usually, the more inactive we are, the more depressed we feel. If you are lounging in bed more often and feel worse than usual, that’s a sign you should be more physically active. Hurkle-durkle responsibly, everyone.

No Scrolling While Strolling MASTERING PEDESTRIAN SAFETY IN A BUSY WORLD

Pedestrians usually have the right of way, but nowadays, it’s more critical than ever that people walking are hyper-aware of their surroundings. With drivers distracted by phones, rush-hour traffic, and unexpected obstacles, staying focused and conscious of what’s happening around you is crucial. Whether walking to work or crossing the street, your safety depends on your vigilance. Get your walking shoes because we are strolling through tips to stay safe on your feet. Crosswalks While you should always use a crosswalk to cross a busy street, don’t assume a car can or will stop. A driver may not see you there due to traffic or other distractions. Before you cross, ensure no vehicles are coming and watch for turning cars. As you cross the street, remain attentive, watching every lane you must cross. Remember to always use the pedestrian button to activate the walk signal. You can give yourself more visibility at night by wearing reflective clothing. Jaywalking Many pedestrian accidents occur when people jaywalk or cross the road in an unregulated area. Avoid jaywalking because it disrupts

traffic flow, and drivers may not see you on the road despite how much of a hurry you may be in. In some states, including Texas, jaywalking is illegal, and you may be cited. Additionally, if you are hit by a car while jaywalking, you may be considered at fault for the accident and receive no or less compensation if you file a claim. Distracted Walking Just like drivers should remain off their phones while commuting, you should also avoid scrolling while strolling. One study found that people looking at their cellphones while walking are 61% more likely to veer off course or outside a crosswalk. If you are walking distracted, you may not see hazards in front of you, and you could injure yourself. Additionally, drivers may not see you in time to slow down or stop. If you were to walk into the street because you were not paying attention, your injuries would be considered your fault. By prioritizing awareness and adhering to these essential safety tips, you can help make every step you take safer. Contact us if you have been in an accident. We can advise you if you’ve ever been hit by a vehicle.

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