YOUR NEXT STEPS When You’re Hit by a Drunk Driver Imaginative play is a foundation of childhood. “Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children, play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood,” Rogers said. Rogers knew that play, which can seem inconsequential to grown-ups, is an important part of childhood development. Imaginative play allows children to step outside of their own perspective and experience another. In the process, they engage in abstract thinking and expand their universe. Mr. Rogers encouraged viewers to use their imaginations by creating a fantastical world called the Neighborhood of Make-Believe. We all deserve to be loved. Rogers knew that not everyone has someone at home who tells them that they are special and loved. So he took it upon himself to tell viewers, ending each Fred Rogers may have passed away in 2003, but the world he created remains with us. In 2018, “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” documented his life and outlook, and in 2019, “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood” depicted Rogers and the journalist whose life was changed by the star of “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.” These movies demonstrate that we’re still fascinated with the man behind Daniel Tiger and King Friday. Why? In part because the lessons Rogers so thoughtfully depicted are as relevant for today’s generation as they were for those who grew up watching his show. HOW THE TELEVISION STAR SHAPED CHILDHOODS LESSONS WE CAN LEARN FROM MR. ROGERS From Fourth of July celebrations to family vacations, there’s plenty of fun to be had in the summer. Whether you stay local or hit the road, you’re bound to come across summertime travelers doing the same, and while everyone just wants to have fun, these interactions could put you and your family at risk, especially if alcohol is involved. Georgia ranks 21st in the nation for drunk driving-related fatalities, and those who survive these tragic accidents often have exceedingly high medical and auto bills. If you’re the victim of a drunk driving accident, then you deserve proper compensation for your injuries and property damage. An attorney can help you navigate the legal system after such a serious accident, but it’s important that you take a few measures, too. First: Like any vehicle accident, your first priority is making sure you are safe and receive medical attention. Get off the roadway and, if you can, get out of your vehicle. Call the authorities, and seek medical attention immediately to avoid further damage. Unless you have to be transported to the hospital, you can begin
Photo source wikimediacommons François Clemmons
episode of “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” by saying, “You’ve made this day a special day by just your being you.”
Feelings are mentionable and manageable. Rogers helped viewers understand that it’s okay to feel mad, sad, and scared, and he helped countless children learn healthy ways to cope with tough emotions. This was a mission dear to his heart. Margaret McFarland, a child psychologist at the University of Pittsburgh who became the chief psychological consultant for “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood,” shared with Rogers the concept he turned to again and again on the show: “Anything that’s human is mentionable, and whatever is mentionable can be more manageable.” You can explore more of Mr. Rogers’ enduring messages at MisterRogers.org. Share “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood” with your children and show them a world where they can grow, learn, and play.
assessing the scene and securing the details you need for care and compensation after you are treated by medical authorities.
Second: Take photos of the damage to your vehicle and the scene. Authorities on the scene will do the same if you are unable to take photos. Have a loved one or a police officer take photos of your injuries and provide the police with a detailed report of what happened. Do not move any items until after the scene has been properly documented, but you should allow the authorities to do this to avoid additional risk. Third: If you suspect the other driver is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, then alert the authorities. They may not perform a field sobriety test, but your suspicions could ensure everything tangible to the case is collected. Finally: Seek help from an attorney. Your first priority after a drunk driver hits you is to focus on your healing. An attorney can help you get the compensation you deserve without causing you undue extra stress or fear.
If are in an accident with a drunk driver this summer, then remember our team is here to help. Learn more by giving us a call.
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