Law Offices of William F. Underwood, III, P.C. - April 2024

Let’s Put an End to Distracted Driving

How We Can All Make Our Roads Safer

1. Use Technology Wisely: Take advantage of do-not-disturb features on your phone or apps designed to minimize distractions while driving. 2. Plan Ahead: Set your GPS route, adjust your mirrors and seats, and select your playlist or podcast before you start driving. 3. Stay Focused: Keep your attention on the road at all times. If you need to attend to something else, pull over safely first. 4. Speak Up: If you’re a passenger, offer to help the driver by navigating or managing the radio and encouraging safe driving habits. Sending a text message for the driver could save a life. As we observe Distracted Driving Awareness Month, let’s each pledge to make distraction- free driving a priority. Remember, every decision to drive attentively is a step toward preventing accidents and preserving lives.

It’s hard to put our phones down, but when you’re behind the wheel, you risk much more than you think. April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, a time dedicated to reflecting on the dangers of distracted driving and to recommit ourselves to safer practices on the road. We’ve witnessed the devastating consequences of distracted driving firsthand at our firm, but if you don’t believe us, believe the numbers. The alarming statistics are a powerful reminder of the need for caution behind the wheel to keep yourself and others safe.

they represent lives irrevocably changed by a moment’s inattention.

While we may think we’re only looking away for just a moment, the truth is that sending or reading a text message can take five seconds. Well, at 55 mph, that’s like driving the whole length of a football field with your eyes closed . What counts as ‘distracted’? Distracted driving encompasses a range of activities that divert a driver’s attention from the road, not just cellphone usage. Aside from the obvious culprits like texting or talking on the phone, distracted driving can include eating, using a GPS, adjusting the radio, or even chatting with passengers. However, texting while driving is particularly risky, as it simultaneously involves manual, visual, and cognitive distractions. How can I stay safe and focused? To safeguard yourself and others, consider these fundamental tips:

How dangerous is distracted driving?

In recent years, distracted driving has become one of the leading causes of road accidents in the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 3,522 people were killed in distracted driving accidents in 2021 alone. These numbers are not just statistics;

SCALLOPS AND SPRING VEGETABLES WITH OLIVE-CAPER PAN SAUCE Inspired by EatingWell.com

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Ingredients • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided • 8 oz sea scallops, tough side muscle removed • Pinch of ground pepper • 8 oz asparagus (1/2 bunch), trimmed • 6 oz baby carrots, halved lengthwise

• 1 medium shallot, minced • 5 pitted green olives, coarsely chopped • 1 tbsp capers, chopped • 1 clove garlic, minced • 1/4 cup dry white wine • 1 tbsp butter • Chopped fresh parsley to garnish

Glenda Hill Lequince James Trantaveous Troutman

Jerome Broner Sandra Smith Jessie Melton

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Directions 1. In a medium nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tbsp oil. Pat scallops dry and sprinkle with pepper. Add scallops to pan and cook, flipping once, until browned and just cooked through, 1 1/2–2 minutes per side. Set aside. 2. In the pan, add remaining 1 tbsp oil, asparagus, and carrots and cook, stirring frequently, until tender, 2–3 minutes. 3. Add shallot, olives, capers, and garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. 4. Add wine and cook for 1 minute. Remove from heat and add butter; stir until melted. 5. Place veggies next to scallops, then drizzle with pan sauce. Serve with parsley if desired.

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