Holland & Usry, PA - April 2024

Check out our April newsletter!

Combatting Distracted Driving on South Carolina Roads ROAD SAFETY STARTS WITH YOU

Tips for Pedestrians Stay Visible

How often have you driven by someone only to see them scrolling through their phone while navigating our South Carolina roads? Or, have you ever seen someone attempt to fix their makeup and drive at the same time? I know I have. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 10% of all highway deaths result from distracted driving. April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, a crucial initiative to raise awareness about the perils of distracted driving and promote road safety for all. While we may have touched upon this subject last year, its significance demands a revisitation to reinforce the importance of staying vigilant behind the wheel and as pedestrians. The Dangers of Distracted Driving Whether it’s texting, chatting with a passenger in the back seat, adjusting the

radio, or even daydreaming, distractions can divert our attention and lead to severe consequences. Let’s look at some essential tips for drivers and pedestrians to enhance road safety and reduce the risk of accidents.

Wear brightly colored or reflective clothing, especially during low-light conditions. This ensures drivers can see you clearly, reducing the risk of accidents. Cross at Designated Areas Use crosswalks and designated pedestrian crossings. Avoid crossing roads at undesignated points, as this increases the likelihood of unexpected collisions. Limit Distractions Just like drivers, pedestrians should also limit distractions. Avoid using phones or headphones while crossing roads to stay aware of your surroundings. Make Eye Contact When possible, make eye contact with drivers before crossing. This ensures they have seen you and reduces the chance of miscommunication. Be Cautious in Parking Lots Parking lots can be busy and chaotic. Stay vigilant, and assume drivers may not see you. Take extra care when walking through parking areas. Whether behind the wheel or navigating as pedestrians, we all play a crucial role in minimizing the risks associated with distracted driving. By following these simple yet effective tips, we contribute to a safer and more secure environment for everyone on the road. Remember, road safety is a shared responsibility, and we can make a significant impact together.

Tips for Drivers Put Your Phone Away

The temptation to check messages or answer calls while driving can be strong, but the consequences are severe. Invest in a phone mount or use hands-free technology to minimize distractions and keep your focus on the road. (Keep in mind that even Bluetooth conversations can still distract your mind from the road.) Plan Ahead Before embarking on a journey, plan your route and familiarize yourself with directions. This reduces the need for last-minute decisions, allowing you to concentrate on driving safely. Avoid Multitasking Eating, grooming, or adjusting the radio can wait. Avoid multitasking while driving to ensure your attention remains solely on the road. Take Breaks Fatigue contributes significantly to accidents. If you are on a long journey, take regular breaks to rest and refresh your mind. A well-rested driver is an alert driver. Educate Passengers Encourage passengers, especially younger ones, to refrain from behavior that may distract you. Creating a culture of responsibility within the vehicle enhances overall safety.

Do a good deed! Be part of a solution! We’re here for you and your family and friends to answer questions about these cases:

• Wrongful death • Serious accident injuries • Work injuries

• Family law —

consultation fee required, we’ll explain when you call.

Give the gift of peace of mind, and make sure callers tell us you sent them so we can thank you! Call 864.898.6458.

864.582.0416

FOOD FOR THOUGHT — The Benefits of Eating as a Family

Promotes Healthy Eating Habits One of the most immediate benefits of family meals is you generally eat better. Families sitting down to eat together are more likely to consume a balanced homemade meal rich in essential nutrients like calcium and fiber. This is especially beneficial for children in their formative years who need these nutrients for growth and development. Weight Management Eating together also helps in controlling weight more effectively. Home-prepared meals usually contain healthier ingredients and allow for better portion control. Mealtime structure also supports better eating habits, which can be a crucial factor in weight management for both adults and children. Positive Effects on Child Development Research suggests that eating dinner together positively affects child development. Children interact with adults and siblings, and conversations help them learn social skills, table manners, family values, and culture.

Emotional Well-Being Family meals are not just about the food but also about spending quality time together. Enjoying a meal with loved ones allows family bonding and may even improve mental health. It contributes to fewer emotional problems and helps children feel loved, safe, and secure. Educational Benefits Mealtime conversations can be educational. Parents can discuss various topics, helping children expand their knowledge, vocabulary, and critical thinking skills. This intellectual stimulation can be particularly beneficial for school-aged children. Sharing meals with family or friends is not just a social custom but a healthful practice with numerous benefits. The advantages are numerous, especially for children. So, make it a point to gather around the table for a meal at least three times a week. Your body, mind, and soul will thank you.

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook the simple yet profound act of sharing a meal with family or friends. However, research suggests that eating together at least three times a week can significantly benefit overall health, particularly for children. Let’s delve into why this age-old tradition is more important than ever.

CLIENT TESTIMONIAL “I was a little concerned about finding a good lawyer whose interest was in helping me and not just about money. I went in and met with Rob and knew he was the right one for me. He was very informative and made sure all my questions were answered. Rob was there throughout the whole process anytime I had a question I could count on him to return my call. The whole process was made even better by Rose and Pam. They were always super helpful and an absolute pleasure to talk with every time I called. I did have a few bumps throughout the process but anytime something came up all I had to do was call Rose and she would get it taken care of. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Extremely thankful for Rob, Rose, and Pam for all their help and kindness. If you want a law firm that cares about you, give them a call.” -Keith F.

www.bhollandlawfirm.com

An Unexpected Resolution Made Possible REACHING A SUCCESSFUL SETTLEMENT FOR OUR INJURED CLIENT

Legal Resolution Efforts to secure total and permanent disability benefits culminated in mediation, where we reached a comprehensive settlement. Jane’s entitlement to financial compensation and continued medical care, including medication coverage, was solidified, providing her with much-needed relief and assurance. Jane’s legal journey resulted in a favorable outcome, emphasizing the importance of diligent legal representation and advocacy in safeguarding individuals’ rights and well-being! We are proud to announce we secured Jane a settlement of $830,242.82 and a medical trust fund of $745,242.82.

Jane contacted me online after experiencing a shoulder injury that proved to be more severe than she initially thought. When I first met her, I certainly did not anticipate the legal journey that would ensue and, more so, the unexpected resolution! Jane’s Injury Employed as a supervisor at a package delivery service in Gaffney, Jane’s duties included opening tractor-trailer cargo doors. One day, while performing this task, she sustained a violent jerk to her neck and left shoulder, resulting in an excruciating injury. Legal Representation Concerned about the lack of effective medical treatment and fearing neglect from her employer’s insurance company, Jane sought legal counsel for protection and advocacy. Recognizing her need for support, she entrusted me to represent her interests. Medical Diagnosis Upon referral to a neurosurgeon, Jane was diagnosed with a severe injury: Large disc

herniation with spinal cord compression, prompting urgent surgical intervention. Despite the operation’s success in alleviating some symptoms, Jane developed additional complications, including facial spasms and depression. Navigating Challenges A diligent pain management doctor aided in identifying the cause of Jane’s facial spasms, while a potential multiple sclerosis diagnosis added complexity to her case. Despite resistance from the insurance company, a second opinion confirmed the link between Jane’s symptoms and her injury, mitigating further legal dispute. Treatment and Medication Jane’s pain management doctor prescribed medication that significantly improved her quality of life, albeit at a perceived high cost. Amidst disputes over medication expenses and false allegations regarding drug intake, swift action and evidence collection were crucial in safeguarding Jane’s credibility.

*Past outcomes don’t guarantee future results. Every case is different, and all cases depend on unique facts and laws.

Good News Craveable Carrot Cake

Indulge in the delightful flavors of a classic carrot cake!

“Ask the Lord for rain in the springtime; it is the Lord who sends the thunderstorms. He gives showers of rain to all people, and plants of the field to everyone.” –Zechariah 10:1 “When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” –John 8:12

Ingredients

Directions

• •

2 cups all-purpose flour 2 tsp baking powder

1. Preheat oven to 350 F. 2. Grease and flour a 9x13-inch pan. 3. In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. 4. In a large bowl, beat together sugar, oil, and eggs. 5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until blended. 6. Stir in carrots and walnuts. Pour batter into prepared pan. 7. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. 8. Cool in pan before serving. (For extra decadence, spread with cream cheese frosting once the cake cools.)

• 1 tsp baking soda • 1 tsp ground cinnamon • 1/4 tsp nutmeg • 1/2 tsp salt • 2 cups granulated sugar • 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil • 4 large eggs • 3 cups grated carrots • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional) • Cream cheese frosting (optional)

864.582.0416

* This newsletter is intended to educate the public about personal injury, workers’ compensation, criminal defense, and family law issues. You can copy and distribute it as long as you copy the entire newsletter. But the newsletter is not intended to be legal advice; you should ask a lawyer about your specific case. Every case is different, and all case outcomes depend on unique facts and laws.

PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411

101 W. St. John St. Suite 206 Spartanburg, SC 29306

INSIDE this issue 1. Distracted Driving: A Risk We Can’t Ignore on South Carolina Roads 2. Why Eating Together Matters More Than You Think 2. Testimonial 3. Settlement Success — Jane’s Journey to Financial Relief 3. Craveable Carrot Cake 4. Tackle Spring-Cleaning With a Week- by-Week Plan

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If you no longer want to receive this newsletter, call Pam at 864.582.0416 or email Rob@bhollandlawfirm.com . YOUR 4-WEEK SPRING-CLEANING CALENDAR

Third Week: The Bathroom You’ll want to begin by removing the grime from the showerhead and sanitizing the curtain. The curtain can be scrubbed and air-dried in the sun. Then clean and sanitize the shower and sink.

Spring-cleaning can be overwhelming. From the kitchen counter to the ceiling fan, there’s a lot of ground to cover. But there’s a trick to make it easier: Breaking down the work into quick, doable tasks spread over four weeks. First Week: The Living Room The start of every journey begins with a single step, and that step is acquiring and prepping supplies. Wash out buckets, empty vacuum bags, throw microfiber cloths in the wash, clean mops, and shake out brooms. Next, it’s time to clean the light fixtures. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe away dust and debris. Then dunk the cloth in soapy water, wring it out, and scrub the light fixture covering the bulb until it shines — just make sure you turn the lights off first. Once you’ve finished the lights, head to the bookshelves. Dust the tops and wipe down the sides. Make sure to wipe down any pictures or framed art on the wall. Lastly, move the furniture and vacuum underneath. Second Week: The Kitchen Clean the dishwasher filter first. Devote the next two days to getting the stove to sparkle, including ridding the vent of grease. Wipe down the countertops and the cabinets. Clean out the microwave and wipe down any other countertop appliances. Congratulations, week two is over.

For the toilets, get under the rim with a toilet brush and give the much-ignored back some love, too. Now that the toilet’s shining, it is the perfect opportunity to get the floor. Take a little extra time to get the baseboards.

Fourth Week: The Bedroom Clean the bedrooms from top to bottom. Now is a good time to wash your pillows and air-dry them. Bedroom ceiling fans can build up a lot of gunk over the winter. An easy way to clean them is by pulling a pillowcase around the blades and pulling them back. Next, polish any wood furniture. Thoroughly clean the windows with glass cleaner or a homemade mixture of vinegar and water, and remember to clean the window tracks. Lastly, test the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

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