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03/24
THE MOTTLEY CREW REVIEW
www.MottleyLawFirm.com | (804) 823-2011
INVISIBLE BATTLES, VISIBLE SUPPORT
Brain Injury Awareness Advocacy
This month marks a cause that is close to my heart and central to my profession: Brain Injury Awareness Month. At The Mottley Law Firm, we specialize in helping those who have experienced a traumatic brain injury (TBI) due to another’s negligence. We’ve seen the profound impact a brain injury has on their life and understand the complexity and nuanced challenges my clients and their families face. I’d like to extend a guiding hand to the caregivers and loved ones of those who have suffered a brain injury. Here are a few things you can do to make a positive difference in their lives.
brain injury isn’t always from a strike to the head. It can also be caused by abrupt movements, such as when the head is forcibly thrown forward and back in a car crash. Show support and patience. Being a good listener is the best way to show your support. They may not always want to talk about their frustrations. When they do, allow them the space to express themselves without trying to solve the problem or pass judgment. Listen with empathy. Sometimes, the person with the injury can push themselves too hard or feel like giving up. They will need your support to get proper rest and follow the doctor’s orders for recovery. Keep encouraging them to give their brain the rest it requires. Be flexible with expectations. How the person with the injury interacts with their environment will change. What they are capable of doing will change, as will their energy levels. Allow extra time and be flexible with your expectations. The person with the TBI may still be learning and testing their new limits. The role of caregivers and loved ones for a person with a brain injury is challenging but incredibly important. Your support, understanding, and patience aid in the recovery process and provide a much-needed foundation of love and stability during a time of great uncertainty. We understand the complexities and the often invisible nature of brain injuries, which fuels our passion for advocating on your behalf. If you or a loved one is dealing with the aftermath of a brain injury, know that we are here for you. We are more than willing to discuss your situation to determine how we might be able to help.
Symptoms of a Brain Injury Physical symptoms • Headache
• Nausea or vomiting • Fatigue or drowsiness • Problems with speech • Dizziness or loss of balance Sensory symptoms • Blurred vision, ringing in the ears, a bad taste in the mouth, or changes in the ability to smell • Sensitivity to light or sound Cognitive, behavioral, or mental symptoms • Loss of consciousness for a few seconds to a few minutes • No loss of consciousness but a state of being dazed, confused, or disoriented • Memory or concentration problems • Mood changes or mood swings • Feeling depressed or anxious • Difficulty sleeping • Sleeping more than usual Children’s Symptoms Infants and young children may not be able to communicate about headaches, sensory problems, confusion, and similar symptoms. In a child with traumatic brain injury, you may observe: • Change in eating or nursing habits • Unusual or easy irritability • Persistent crying and inability to be consoled • Change in ability to pay attention • Change in sleep habits • Seizures • Sad or depressed mood • Drowsiness • Loss of interest in favorite toys or activities
Be knowledgeable about the signs. Brain injury symptoms can vary widely but
often include headaches, sensitivity to light and noise, balance issues, and cognitive changes. The cognitive changes may manifest as memory problems, confusion, shifts in mood or personality, and especially communication issues, such as struggling to find the right words or difficulty expressing themselves. Keep in mind, too, that a
–Kevin Mottley
www.MottleyLawFirm.com | 1
SENIORS MAKING A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE: VOLUNTEER WITH IVHQ
For senior travelers seeking a unique journey, volunteer vacations with the International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ) offer an opportunity to impact the global community. These adventures go beyond the conventional, immersing seniors in foreign cultures while contributing to local communities. IVHQ’s diverse programs put senior volunteers in awe-inspiring locations worldwide. They’re not just visitors but active participants in cultural exchange and community enhancement. With age comes a wealth of experience, knowledge, and patience — attributes highly valued and admired by younger volunteers and locals alike. Whether it’s teaching English in Cambodia or participating in wildlife conservation in Sri Lanka’s jungles, IVHQ ensures every volunteer finds their perfect fit. Accommodations cater to every preference, and local cuisine adds an authentic touch to this enriching experience. Take Glenda Bernstein, a 55-year-old IVHQ volunteer in Tanzania, who describes her time at a local school as “one of my greatest life experiences.” The warmth and gratitude she received from the community and the connections she forged with the children underscore the profound impact of her work.
IVHQ’s volunteer vacations for seniors are more than just travel; they’re a testament to the power of experience in fostering global understanding and positive change. It’s an invitation to seniors to embark on a journey to explore the world and leave an enduring mark on communities and volunteers alike.
HOW MUCH IS MY BRAIN INJURY CASE WORTH?
3 Factors Determine the Settlement
Brain injury claims are complex and often misunderstood. It can be difficult for the individual and family to gauge the potential value of their claim because these cases vary from tens of thousands
value. The depth of insurance coverage available often becomes the linchpin in determining the financial outcome of a case. In our cases, we investigate the direct policies held by the parties involved and search for additional coverage that may apply, such
to millions of dollars. How do we calculate the value of something as intricate as a brain injury and its profound impact on one’s life?
as umbrella policies or other forms of insurance that could increase the pool of available funds for compensation.
Strength of Evidence The first and perhaps most crucial factor in determining the value of the case is the strength of the evidence supporting the presence of a brain injury. The evidence must be compelling and clearly delineate what led to the injury itself. It’s a common misconception that brain injuries only happen from a direct blow to the head. In reality, many occur without any impact. They result from violent motions that cause the brain to shake within the skull, such as in a whiplash scenario.
The Supporting Cast The strength and credibility of the
witnesses and the persuasive power of their testimonies directly impact how compelling the supporting cast is. Witnesses need to be able to attest to observable changes in the individual affected. A reliable witness’s ability to vividly describe the before and after — the details of the stark contrast in an individual’s life pre- and post-injury — is a powerful tool in fortifying a case. Witnesses can include family members, friends, or coworkers.
Resources for Compensation It’s a stark reality that the extent of a defendant’s insurance coverage can either open doors to adequate compensation or impose frustrating limits on the potential claim
Our goal is to empower individuals and their families with the knowledge and support they need to pursue the justice and recovery they deserve. If you
have any questions, we are here to help.
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Spring isn’t just a time for nature to bloom; it’s our cue for personal and professional rejuvenation through spring-cleaning. This annual ritual, both at my home and law office, has become more than just tidying up — it’s a metaphor for clearing out the old to make room for new growth and opportunities. The challenge of spring-cleaning, much like life’s hurdles, often begins with feeling overwhelmed. Where do you start when everything seems like a mess? My journey has led me to three key insights that have transformed this daunting task into something manageable and even fulfilling. First, letting go is essential. It’s about more than just parting with a long-unworn shirt; it’s a practice in releasing what no longer serves us, making space for the new. Marie Kondo champions this idea with her method of keeping only what “sparks joy.” This principle of decluttering can also apply to outdated habits or thoughts, encouraging us to embrace change and growth. The second insight is the importance of making quick decisions. During a clean-out last year, I quickly decided which shirts to donate, only for them to circle back to my closet due to a humorous family mix-up. This taught me a valuable lesson: Once you decide to move forward, don’t let anything pull you back to square one. Lastly, start small. Overhauling an entire closet or aspect of your life can be paralyzing. But beginning with a manageable task, like organizing a single drawer, can create momentum for tackling larger challenges. It’s about taking that first step, however small, toward improvement and growth. As the season changes, I see spring-cleaning as an opportunity for renewal beyond our physical spaces. It’s a chance to declutter our minds, refine our habits, and refresh our outlooks. Let’s embrace the spirit of spring by making room for new beginnings and possibilities, both around and within us. This spring, I encourage you to join me in this process of renewal. By letting go of the old, making decisive moves, and starting with small steps, we can pave the way for new growth and opportunities. Here’s to a spring filled with fresh starts and vibrant possibilities! Declutter Your Life Spring Into Action
SOLUTION
SUDOKU
ST. PADDY’S IRISH SODA BREAD
Inspired by Epicurious.com
INGREDIENTS
• Nonstick vegetable oil spray • 2 cups all-purpose flour, extra for dusting • 5 tbsp sugar, divided • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 3/4 tsp baking soda • 3 tbsp chilled unsalted butter, cubed • 1 cup buttermilk • 2/3 cup raisins
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 375 F. Coat an 8-inch round cake pan with nonstick spray. 2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, 4 tbsp sugar, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. Cut butter into the mixture with your fingers or a pastry knife until crumbly. Make a well in the center and pour in buttermilk. Gradually mix until dough comes together. Mix in raisins. 3. Using floured hands, form dough into a ball and transfer to pan. Sprinkle with remaining 1 tbsp sugar. 4. Bake bread for about 40–45 minutes or until golden brown and a tester stick comes out clean. Let bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then enjoy!
–Kevin Mottley
www.MottleyLawFirm.com | 3
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
8001 Franklin Farms Drive, Suite 125 Richmond, Virginia 23229
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
www.MottleyLawFirm.com | (804) 823-2011
1
Together in the Fight Against Invisible Injuries
2
You’re Never Too Old to Help
The Price of a Brain Injury
3
The Essence of Spring-Cleaning St. Paddy’s Irish Soda Bread
4
Bring Color and Joy to Your Garden
Grow Your Green Thumb This Spring A SPRING GARDENING GUIDE
Carrots and radishes are quick, easy, and grow well in most areas. Carrots are versatile veggies great for snacking and cooking; even your dogs will love them! They need to be planted early, though, as they take about three months to germinate. Radishes are cool-season vegetables you can start indoors and plant outside after the last frost. Other vegetables can also be started from seed indoors in late February to early March. Try cabbage, kale, broccoli, cauliflower, onions, leeks, endive, and lettuce. Later, in mid to late March, you can start peppers, tomatoes, eggplant, Swiss chard, and tomatillos indoors. Wait to plant your seeds and seedlings in the ground until two weeks after the last frost. Some early cold-tolerant vegetables, like cabbage, broccoli, and head lettuce, can go in the ground early to mid-March. Heat-loving plants like peppers, okra, and eggplant that grow slowly can also be planted in March. Tomatoes are the stars of many gardens. It
is best to wait until early April to plant them, though. They are like Goldilocks and prefer everything just right — not too cold or hot. We can’t talk about gardening without giving a few helpful tips for adding color. Plant hydrangea, aster, pansy, sweet peas, garden mums, and Oriental lilies in the spring to invite pollinators and provide blooming color throughout the summer. Spring bulbs, like crocus and daffodils, are the first to bloom. Sometimes, they will even bloom when there is a bit of snow on the ground. But it is best to plant bulbs in the fall so they have time to settle in their roots. A gardener’s best friend is the USDA Hardiness Zone Map. Since most states include three different growing zones, it is a handy resource to choose the best plants for your area. The website at PlantHardiness.ars.usda.gov has a wealth of information, including tips for easy maintenance. So, grab your gloves, get your seeds, and enjoy watching your garden grow!
Spring is in the air; the chirping birds and warm air call you outdoors. It’s the perfect time to start your garden. Even as a beginning gardener, you can find plants and flowers to bring you joy throughout the summer.
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