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HARMONSON HEADLINES YOUR GUIDE TO PERSONAL INJURY IN THE BORDERLAND JANUARY 2024
I can’t imagine a field filled with more misconceptions and myths than law! Inaccurate TV dramas, tall tales told by friends, and less-than-ethical lawyers have led to a surplus of misinformation. Misunderstandings can often lead to bad advice and poor legal decisions that can cause irreparable damage. Jan. 25 is Opposite Day, so I thought, what better way to clear up legal myths and bad advice I would never give to my clients? When I tell people about my job, I often hear, “Oh, so you’re an ambulance chaser?” They honestly couldn’t be further from the truth! I like to think we’re the good guys, but plenty of bad actors out there have people doubting our intentions. Especially with such a heavy saturation of lawyers advertising their services, it can seem like we’re all just waiting for someone to get hurt. But, at least for myself, I want to be on the good side. When someone is hurt by another’s negligence, the victim can experience lifelong consequences. I’m proud to support these injured people who are certainly not on the winning side. I get to spend my life helping others, and I can’t think of a better profession than that! Of course, we have the misunderstanding that lawyers only do what they do for the money. However, it’s no secret the Texas legal system is rigged against injured individuals. If I were only in it for money, I’d be on the side of the big businesses and massive insurance companies! Perhaps one of the most harmful myths is that you can pursue a personal injury claim yourself. I see it countless times with those who’ve experienced a car accident. They think it simply can’t be that difficult! Of course, your case LET’S SET THE RECORD STRAIGHT PERSONAL INJURY LAW MYTHS DEBUNKED
can go sideways in 100 different ways — plenty of people have tried doing it independently and, months later, realize they need help. The problem is that it’s too late! You must start early on the right track with a legal professional on your side. As you consider your legal options, learn the facts and question uninformed advice. For example, a tip you would never hear me give is to trust your insurance adjuster. While there are plenty of different adjusters, they all share one job requirement: minimizing or denying your claim. Another bit of advice you’d never hear me say is not to use your insurance. If you have a wreck and you’ve paid for insurance for years, not using it is the same as giving a Christmas present to your agent. It doesn’t help you at all! If you’re not at fault and the other driver’s insurance is dragging their feet, just use your own! That’s why you have it in the first place. Finally, I would also never tell a person not to get medical treatment after an accident. Even if you’re busy, make time for it! You may have an injury without knowing it, and your pain can pop up years later when it’s too late. I can help you connect with a medical provider if you ever need a recommendation!
If you have any questions about a case or find yourself injured, my team can support you and provide the whole truth!
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TEEN DRIVING AWAR
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. 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.
WHAT YOU NEED
In the expansive terrain of El Paso, Texas, January marks a significant annual observance — Teen Driving Awareness Month. My own teen daughter is about to get behind the wheel, and we parents must know how to keep them safe. As we navigate the vast network of highways and city roads, young drivers face distinct risks, so parents play a pivotal role in teaching their young drivers safe driving habits — and enforcing them. Here are three to focus on. Tackle the Distraction Dilemma One of the most dangerous teen-driving risks is the omnipresence of distractions, particularly with the increase of smartphones and in-car entertainment systems. Enforce strict rules with your teen that ensure they never
Weight Management Eating together also helps in controlling weight more effectively. Home-prepared
use their phone while on the road. Clear expectations regarding the responsible use of electronic devices are crucial to reducing distractions and enhancing safety on the road. Set Rules for Safer Roads Parents hold the key to instilling responsible driving habits in their teens. Establishing and enforcing driving rules, such as setting curfews, limiting passengers, and adopting a zero-
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.
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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.
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NAVIGATE WINTER ROADS IN EL PASO WITH CONFIDENCE Winter in West Texas comes with occasional cold snaps and the potential for icy roads in El Paso. As temperatures dip, adapting to seasonal challenges is crucial for drivers. To navigate safely through winter, consider the following tips to help you prepare, remain attentive, and practice other essential driving strategies. Tire Safety and Traction Ensuring your vehicle is equipped with appropriate tires is the first step in preparing for winter driving. Though less accustomed to icy conditions, El Paso residents can benefit from investing in quality winter tires to enhance traction on slippery surfaces. Regularly checking tire pressure and tread depth is essential to maintain optimal performance, especially in colder temperatures that can lead to tire deflation. Adjusting Driving Behavior to Cold Conditions Drivers in this region, who are generally less familiar with extreme winter weather, need to adjust their driving behavior accordingly: Increase braking distances, slow down in icy conditions, and avoid sudden movements that can lead to losing control. Being aware of black ice, an almost invisible hazard, is crucial, especially during the early morning and late evening. Vehicle Maintenance Winterize your vehicle for safe winter driving. Ensure your brakes, battery, and heating systems are in optimal condition. Use a winter blend of windshield washer fluid to prevent freezing and keep the reservoir full. Residents should also check their vehicle’s antifreeze levels to prevent engine damage in colder temperatures. A Clear Focus on Safety In colder climates like ours during winter, frost or ice build up on windshields compromises visibility. Invest in a good-quality ice scraper and defrost your windows thoroughly before setting out. Keep headlights and taillights clean, and replace any burnt-out bulbs promptly. Maintaining clear visibility is essential for your safety and the safety of others on the road.
RENESS MONTH D TO KNOW
tolerance policy for driving under the influence, form a critical foundation. Rather than restricting freedom, these measures encourage responsibility and equip teens for a lifetime of safe driving. Stay Involved and Supportive Your child needs to know you will be there for them no matter what. While we never want to imagine our teens participating in underage drinking, you never know when it might happen. The last thing you want is for them to be too afraid to call you at a time like this and drive under the influence. I encourage every parent to reassure their child that they will always come to pick them up if they’ve been drinking. While you might not be happy about it,
escorting them home can save a life.
If, in the unfortunate event, your teen experiences an accident, our team is here to help you understand your next steps.
CHEESY CHICKEN CHOWDER INGREDIENTS
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3 cups chicken broth 2 cups peeled and diced potatoes 1 cup diced carrots 1 cup diced celery 1/2 cup diced onion
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1/3 cup all-purpose flour 2 cups whole milk 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese 2 cups cooked and diced chicken
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Emergency Preparedness While our region may not experience extreme winter conditions, it’s prudent to be prepared for unexpected situations. Pack an emergency kit with essentials such as blankets, a flashlight, water, non-perishable snacks, and a first-aid kit. These items ensure you are ready for any unforeseen challenges during winter travel. As we embrace the winter season, incorporating these safe driving practices can make all the difference in having a secure and stress-free journey. By taking proactive steps to address occasional cold and icy conditions, drivers can navigate the roads confidently, safeguarding themselves and others in the community.
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1 1/2 tsp salt 1/4 tsp pepper
1/4 cup butter, cubed
DIRECTIONS
1. In a 4-quart saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Reduce heat and add potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, salt, and pepper. Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes or until vegetables are tender. 2. In another medium saucepan, melt butter and stir in flour until smooth. Slowly stir in milk. Bring to a boil over medium heat and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Reduce heat, then add cheese, stirring until melted. Add the cheesy mixture and chicken to the broth and heat it thoroughly!
Inspired by TasteOfHome.com
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Don’t Fall for These Personal Injury Law Myths!
Why Eating Together Matters More Than You Think
El Paso Teens Take the Wheel Safely
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Sudoku
Cheesy Chicken Chowder
How to Master Winter Driving
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A Preview of 2024’s Best Celestial Events
Keep Your Eyes to the Sky Explore the Celestial Highlights of 2024
You could easily miss a lot happening above our atmosphere if you didn’t stay up late or watch the news beforehand. Once the sun sets tonight, look up at the sky. As long as you’re not in an area with heavy light pollution, you should be able to see brilliant constellations. On some nights, you may even see more than you expected. No, we’re not talking about UFOs or little green men but about naturally occurring phenomena deep in outer space.
Meteor showers occur when interstellar dust particles enter our planet’s atmosphere at high speeds. The first meteor shower of the year is the Quadrantids Meteor Shower, which should take place a few days after New Year’s, but if you miss it, you won’t have to wait long to see another. April, May, July, August, October, and November should also have meteor showers. Be aware that if the moon shines too brightly, you likely won’t be able to see the meteors.
and look to the east. You should see a bright yellow star that’s not usually visible. That’s Saturn!
Total Solar Eclipse
You won’t have to wait until night to see this rare occurrence. On April 8, the moon will pass perfectly between the Sun and Earth, creating an eclipse. Residents of Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine will see a total eclipse for only a handful of minutes. The rest of the country will still see an eclipse, but it won’t be as extreme. The next total solar eclipse won’t occur until August 2044, so get out there and see it this year! Just be sure to wear protective eyewear!
Saturn
Several unique events take place in 2024. Here are the highlights you don’t want to miss!
Looking at other planets can be fascinating but not always possible, especially without a telescope. Thankfully, you won’t need a telescope to see Saturn and its rings on Sept. 8. Once the sun sets, head outside
Meteor Showers
Seeing a shooting star is magical, but witnessing a meteor shower is awe-inspiring.
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