Aulsbrook Law Firm - March/April 2025

Take a look at our latest newsletter!

MAR/APR 2025

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A New Season, New Opportunities Welcoming Spring With Gratitude and Care

Hey, y’all! Spring is just around the corner, and with the changing seasons comes new opportunities to reflect, grow, and serve. As we move into March and April, I’m reminded of how grateful I am to our clients for trusting us to fight for justice on their behalf. We are also excited to share that we have added a new member to our team. Join us in welcoming Gail Crowson, who will head our HR department. We’re thrilled to have her on board as we continue expanding to help more people. Embracing Spring in North Texas Spring in North Texas is a time of growth, and we’re soaking up every bit of it. The warmer weather is perfect for getting outside and enjoying this season’s beauty. For many families, March and April also mean spring break adventures. So, we hope you create memories to cherish, whether you’re hitting the road, exploring the great outdoors, or staying close to home for a bit of R&R. Let’s not forget Easter! From egg hunts to Sunday brunch, this holiday is a wonderful reminder of hope and renewal. Contact me if you want to join us for Easter church service. April Is Distracted Driving Awareness Month Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car crashes, and sadly, we see the consequences all too often in our line of work. With April being Distracted Driving Awareness Month, it’s a good time to reflect on how we can all do better behind the wheel. Here are five tips to stay safe. • Put the Phone Away: Even glancing at a text or notification can take your eyes off the road long enough to cause an accident. Use “Do Not Disturb” mode or keep your phone out of reach while driving. • Avoid Multitasking: Eating, applying makeup, or adjusting the radio can wait. Focus solely on the road when you’re driving. • Plan Ahead: Enter your destination into GPS before starting the car. This helps reduce the need to fiddle with your phone while on the road. Reducing distractions ahead of time can make a big difference. • Secure Loose Items: Loose items in your car can jostle and become a distraction. To avoid this issue, secure groceries, bags, and other items before hitting the road. • Speak Up: Don’t hesitate to say something if you’re a passenger and notice the driver is distracted. It’s better to have an awkward conversation than to be in a crash.

We wish more people understood the devastating ripple effects of distracted driving. A moment of distraction can lead to lifelong consequences for victims and their families. If you or a loved one has been affected by a distracted driving crash, know we’re here to help you navigate the road to justice. Wishing You a Wonderful Spring Spring is a time to embrace beauty, renewal, and moments of joy with loved ones. Take time to relax, recharge, and enjoy all the season has to offer. If you or a loved one ever needs help after a serious injury or wrongful death, don’t hesitate to give us a call.

Y’all take care out there!

–Matt Aulsbrook

A referral is the greatest compliment you could ever give us! If you know someone in need of our services, we are eager to help. Please pass this newsletter along and tell them to call 817.775.5364 or visit TheTexasLawDog.com/contact-us . Thank you!

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SIMPLE TIPS TO PREVENT SPRINGTIME SLIPS STEPPING INTO SPRING SAFELY

Sneaky Home Issues You Should Never Ignore

With wildflowers blooming and warmer temperatures calling us outside, spring is a great time to be in Texas. However, the season can bring unpredictable wet weather, increasing the risk of

Your home is your haven, but even the coziest spaces can harbor silent troublemakers. While some household quirks might seem harmless, ignoring them can lead to bigger, pricier problems. Let’s uncover common culprits and learn how to deal with them before they take over. Tiny Intruders and Mysterious Droppings The sight of mouse droppings can stop any homeowner in their tracks. Droppings, ants, and other pests indicate your home has unsealed openings, inviting critters in. Inspect spots like exhaust vents and garage doors for gaps or signs of chewing. When in doubt, call a professional. Ignoring pests is a recipe for health risks and more unwelcome guests. Mold’s Unwelcome Appearance Mold hangs out in the usual places — bathroom corners or the fridge ( oops, forgot about that yogurt ). However, mold on your living room walls or bedroom ceiling is a major red flag. Unexpected mold could point to a hidden moisture problem. Get a professional to evaluate the situation, stop the spread, and ensure your home stays safe for you and your family. Less-Than-Perfect Shingles Your roof works year-round to protect your home, so don’t let damaged shingles go unnoticed. A single missing shingle might seem trivial, but it can allow moisture to wreak havoc on the wood beneath. Before you know it, a quick fix turns into a costly nightmare. Inspect your roof or schedule a professional check-up — your wallet (and home) will thank you. Risky Stair Railings A shaky stair railing can seem like a minor annoyance until it becomes a major safety hazard. A quick DIY fix might work for short railings, but anything longer — or attached to a balcony — needs a professional’s touch. Better safe than sorry! What Lies Beneath Peeling Paint Peeling paint can be more than an aesthetic issue. If the paint flakes in square, scaly patterns, you might have lead-based paint underneath — a big concern, especially with kids in the house. Don’t tackle this alone; bring in a pro to safely remove the old paint and give your walls a safe upgrade. Your home has a way of hinting when something’s wrong. Listen to those little signals and take action. A bit of vigilance now can prevent major headaches later, keeping your sanctuary safe and ready for all of life’s moments.

slips and falls. According to the National Floor Safety Institute, slip-and-fall accidents account for over 1 million emergency room visits yearly. Avoid becoming part of this statistic by following a few tips to stay safe this spring.

Watch your step. Paying close attention to where you walk is important during wet weather — sidewalks, parking areas, and lawns become slippery when wet.

Always be mindful of where you step, avoiding muddy areas or puddles that could cause you to slip. Stick to well-established paths whenever possible, and take smaller, deliberate steps when walking on potentially slippery areas. Choose the right footwear. Shoes with good traction offer the best protection against slips. Hiking shoes are a great wet-weather option. Slip-resistant footwear is ideal, as it is designed to provide improved traction on wet surfaces. Avoid wearing smooth-soled shoes, sandals, and heels if rain is in the forecast because this type of footwear offers minimal traction. Be mindful of hidden hazards. Spring rains can lead to various hazards — some more obvious than others. Algae can be problematic on shaded sidewalks and wooden decks, creating very slippery conditions. Likewise, leaves and other organic debris left to collect can turn slick after rainfall. Also, be mindful of hidden pools of rainwater brought indoors by shoes and umbrellas. Entryways to public places such as office buildings and grocery stores are particularly prone to this issue. Know what to do if you fall. After a slip and fall, the first step is to assess your injuries and seek medical attention if necessary. When possible, take photos to document the hazard. In some cases, it’s more than just wet weather to blame. Texas law requires property owners to maintain reasonably safe conditions. Those who fail to address rain-related hazards, such as uncleared sidewalks, pooled water, and algae, could be held liable for any injuries. Slip-and-fall injuries can have lasting consequences, but proving negligence requires the expertise of a personal injury attorney. If you’ve been injured due to unsafe conditions, Aulsbrook Law Firm is here to help.

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SPRING BREAK TRAVEL WITHOUT THE HASSLE Your Guide to a Safe Family Getaway

Texas-Size LAUGHS research potential health and safety risks for each destination. Consider local crime rates and the availability of nearby hospitals and emergency facilities. Those traveling internationally can visit the U.S. Department of State’s website for applicable travel advisories. Researching recent Vacationing with family is an excellent way to spend spring break. With the kids off from school and the weather warming up, it’s the perfect time for an adventure with your closest loved ones. Whether you travel internationally or stay closer to home, following these three practical tips can keep your trip safe and stress-free. Conduct Pre-Trip Research If you haven’t decided where you’re going, create a list of destinations that align with your family’s interests and budget. From there, you can

news reports and checking for seasonal weather risks will also help you avoid travel issues.

for your family’s ability level. Research trail conditions and weather forecasts beforehand to avoid surprises. Water activities require extra precautions to ensure everyone’s safety. Choose locations with lifeguards whenever possible and always use appropriate safety gear, such as life jackets. When visiting amusement parks, ensure the entire family understands park rules. Teach younger kids to follow ride guidelines, stay seated, and use safety equipment as instructed. Planning and prioritizing safety will help you avoid issues and create lasting memories with your loved ones. Remember, even the best-laid plans can encounter unexpected problems. If unsafe conditions or someone’s negligence causes an injury that disrupts your vacation, turn to our legal team to help you achieve justice.

Prioritize Transportation Safety If a road trip is part of your spring break plans, get a thorough safety inspection and a tune-up to ensure your vehicle is in good condition before hitting the highway. Top off fluids and replace wiper blades to prepare for unpredictable spring weather. Pack a kit with a flashlight, jumper cables, first-aid supplies, and water and snacks to prepare for emergencies. If you rent a car or use public transportation, choose services with high safety ratings and prioritize safety features. Plan Safety-First Activities For outdoor adventures like hiking or biking, visit areas with well-established trails suitable

CREAMY TORTELLINI VEGETABLE SOUP Inspired by EatingWell.com

INGREDIENTS •

DIRECTIONS 1. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add carrots and onions and cook for about 5 minutes or until onions are softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant. 2. Add broth, tomatoes, fresh basil, pepper, and salt. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to medium, cover, and let simmer for about 5 minutes or until carrots are slightly tender. 3. Stir in tortellini. Cook until pasta is tender. Reduce heat to medium-low. 4. Add baby spinach and cream. Cook until spinach is wilted. Serve and garnish with additional basil if desired.

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• • • •

1 cup peeled and chopped carrots 1 cup chopped yellow onion 1 tbsp finely chopped garlic 3 cups reduced-sodium vegetable broth 1 (15-oz) can (no salt added) diced tomatoes with basil, garlic, and oregano 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped 1/2 tsp ground pepper 1/4 tsp plus 1/8 tsp salt 1 (9-oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini 1 (5-oz) package baby spinach

• • • •

• •

1 cup heavy cream

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CLIENT MEME

WWW.THETEXASLAWDOG.COM 817.775.5364 424 E. LAMAR BLVD. #200 ARLINGTON, TX 76011

PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411

INSIDE Warm Wishes for a Happy, Safe Spring 1 Ignoring These Home Issues Could Cost You Big

Don’t Let Spring Showers Trip You Up 2 Spring Adventure Safety Tips

Creamy Tortellini Vegetable Soup 3 Enjoy Your Favorite Comfort Foods While Eating Healthier 4 Cases We Handle:

• Personal Injury • Wrongful Death

• Car Wreck • Truck Wreck

SIMPLE WAYS TO MAKE YOUR FAVORITES MORE NUTRITIOUS INDULGE WITHOUT THE GUILT

When we were children, our parents served us many dishes that filled our bellies and hearts with warm, positive feelings. Many of us hold on to these nostalgic recipes, cooking them whenever we need a pick-me-up, but many have realized those classic comfort foods aren’t as healthy as they could be. If you’re trying to eat healthier, you may think you have to cut way back on comfort foods, but that’s not the case. You simply have to find ways to make them more nutritious. Here are three ideas to get you started. Swap out ingredients. One of the best ways to make your favorite comfort food healthier is to swap out less nutritious ingredients for healthier options. Do you love eating pasta but don’t want to overindulge on

carbs? Then, swap out your standard spaghetti noodles for spaghetti squash. Mashed cauliflower can replace mashed potatoes, Greek yogurt can stand in for sour cream, and whole wheat crust and low-fat cheese can replace traditional crust and full- fat cheese on pizza. The options are endless! Add more vegetables and whole grains to the recipe. Our favorite comfort foods can be full of simple carbs and fat (which is why they taste so good!), but adding healthier ingredients can balance the carb-fest. Whole grains are a way to get more fiber, B vitamins, iron, and magnesium into your diet, and adding vegetables also increases fiber and vitamins. For example, sauté onions, mushrooms, and zucchini and add those to your spaghetti sauce — or even to your favorite mac and cheese! Finding the right additions might

take some creative thinking, but once you do, you’ll never look back!

Cut back on the salt. Salt is a staple ingredient in many comfort foods, but it can contribute to high blood pressure and increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. Limit how much salt you include in your dish, and use low-sodium or salt-free ingredients when possible. If it feels like you’re taking the flavor out of your dish, use spices and herbs to replace the salt.

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