The biggest factor considered in this new policy is, you guessed it, money. In a memo to consultants and brokers, BCBS stated that the new policy is being enacted to save insurance members’ money from what could otherwise be treated in a doctor’s appointment. The new policy goes into effect June 4^th of this year.

What Would Be Considered an Emergency?

This is one of the biggest questions – and concerns – that people have with the new policy. In other words, what injury or symptom is considered important enough to merit a visit to the emergency room? On one hand, it is understandable for people who know they have a minor injury to care for it at home until they can visit their primary care physician. Take, for instance, someone who was playing a sport and got a small scrape. That scrape can probably be cared for with hydrogen peroxide and a band-aid. On the other hand, let’s say that same person got their arm broken. This would require a doctor to properly care for the broken bone and intense pain.

There is an issue with self-diagnosing worth looking into, though. Self-diagnosing – or in this case, diagnosing to see the potential value of an emergency room visit – could involve inaccurate diagnosis that could be harmful to a person. For example, if someone has a strong stomach ache-type pain, they might rule it out as something they ate recently in order to avoid worrying about a medical bill. However, what if that person’s appendix burst and requires immediate medical help? This misdiagnosis could result in a serious abdominal inflammation (peritonitis), which untreated can be fatal.

As you might tell, there is a very gray and blurry line between which injuries and symptoms require emergency care. BCBS should, if anything, have a general list of what their insurance would consider acceptable for a claim. Also, whether or not this new policy violates state insurance laws would be up to the Texas Department of Insurance.

What Are Your Thoughts?

On one side, BCBS is attempting to keep the costs of their insurance the same rate for the HMO members mentioned above. On the other side, there could be potential risks dictating what emergency is considered valid for a policy holder to not pay out of pocket for their emergency room visit. Whether or not this can influence other insurance companies’ policies would be up to the response of the policy holders and with fiscal analysis after the policy rolls out; in other words, does the policy actually save BCBS money, and if so, at what costs?

Do you consider the new policy to be fair? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments below.

With the advancing of technology, however, there is a new initiative to use an electronic vendor to dispatch when and where a tow company must go. In other words, the independent, rotating method of dispatching the trucks would be replaced by a single, focused system. With the 1997 ordinance expiring this September, towing companies are skeptic of the new proposal.

Not Everyone is Happy

The proposal to use the new technology was made by Fort Worth Police Chief Joel Fitzgerald, when he told Fort Worth’s City Council that using the system would be both efficient and would save the city money. This system uses GPS technology to track tow trucks and match them with the closes accident. If a tow truck is closes to the accident, then that tow truck gets to go to the scene. Such efficiency would help clear accidents at a much faster rate; for example, a tow truck that is five minutes away from the accident could respond to the scene much quicker than a tow truck that is twenty minutes away.

Although the police department has met with multiple towing companies in the past months, some, like Councilwoman Kelly Allen Gray, state that the new approach could hurt local Fort Worth business. A towing company has a similar concern, stating that the idea of one technological system controlling independent companies is not fair. One of the biggest concerns could be that distance plays an important role in which tow truck gets called first; if a towing company is far from the scene, it could have a significant disadvantage in making profit, especially if the company’s physical location is far from where most accidents occur.

On the other side of the argument, there are those that argue that with the advancing of technology, new approaches can be incorporated to ensure the city is improving its efficiency. The police chief has noted that other cities are doing similar initiatives.

What Would You Consider as “Fair Game”?

With both side of the argument having legitimate points, it can be difficult to know which side to be on. Do you support the side that favors new technological innovations, or do you support the local businesses that are concerned their businesses could be hurt by the proposal? In regards to the proposal itself, it is important for all aspects to be closely considered before making a decision. Let us know in the comments below what you think about the new proposal, and as always, please remember to drive safely.

In regards to Walton, there was a passenger in the same vehicle with her at the time of the accident who survived the accident. Walton, however, was pronounced dead after upon her arrival at Parkland Memorial Hospital. Upon further investigation of the accident, officials state that Walton was driving on the wrong side of the road deliberately. It is not clear as to why she was driving on the wrong side of the road, as well as whether or not there were other factors involved surrounding the accident.

What Should I Do If There’s a Car Coming My Way?

Being caught on the road when there is a vehicle coming right towards you can be a dangerous situation. This is especially true when it is night time where there is reduced visibility, or when the other vehicle is going at high speeds. The time between not knowing what to do and performing an evasive maneuver is essential in saving the lives of the passengers in your vehicle, and your live as well. For this reason, what’s the best way to deal with a vehicle that is coming your way? Should you challenge them to see who will turn first (obviously not). Giving the other reckless driver the space they need is important to avoid any collision of any sort. While the other driver might want to get themselves injured, you and the passengers in your vehicle don’t, so it is important for you to take the appropriate steps to ensure the safety of all.

As mentioned earlier, the time gap between confusion and knowing what to do must be very, very small. This means acting in an alert and active manner is essential to your survival. If the car is coming straight to you, you can attempt to simply move out of harm’s way by going to the side of the road. This allows the vehicle to miss impacting your vehicle. Also, calling the police after you get out of harm’s way is essential for the safety of other cars on the road. Although you have escaped harm’s way, it does not mean that the danger is over for other drivers. From the Anderson Law Firm, we urge all drivers to make responsible driving decisions, such as not speeding, not texting and driving, and not making the irresponsible decision to drive under the influence of alcohol. Driving is a responsibility for everyone on the road, so please remember to drive safety for the well-being of you and others.

A Fiery Crash

According to authorities, a truck driver died after the 18-wheeler he was driving caught fire and was pushed almost completely off a bridge in Interstate 30 at around 5:45 in the morning. The truck was left hanging, with a great portion of the truck’s cab falling over the bridge. The truck driver was taken to the hospital where he later died of his injuries. Although the exact cause of the accident is not clear and is under investigation, there were multiple other vehicles involved in the wreck. One of these vehicles caught fire as well.

Witnesses note there were large quantities of black smoke sent to the sky after the explosion that caused the truck to catch fire took place. Eastbound I-30 was temporarily closed so hazardous material teams could clean and clear spilled fuel from the accident. Also, drivers who were commuting on I-30 mentioned visibility issues on the highway due to the amount of smoke that was launched into the air because of the wreck. When a driver comes into contact with heavy smoke, it is important to not drive into the smoke due to not being able to see other drivers.

Should Cars Be More Careful Around Trucks?

As drivers, we typically hear about the dangers of driving too close to a truck or being in an accident that was caused by a truck. What happens when a car causes a truck wreck to occur? Perhaps the car was driving too close to the truck and hit the truck, or perhaps the car was attempting to switch lanes when it accidentally hit one of the truck’s tires? In this case, the truck driver would be the victim of the car wreck. Although truck drivers can be at-fault for a wreck many times, car drivers can also be at-fault for causing a wreck to occur.

For this reason, it is important to note that drivers of any sort should be aware and cautious of other vehicles, regardless of the size of the other vehicle. For example, truck drivers make the effort to give cars enough space to pass, which is something to remember when a truck driver is attempting to change lanes. Being courteous to other drivers is essential. This means it is important to keep a safe distance, using turn signals, stopping with an appropriate distance, and all other safety measures to make sure that all drivers are safe. Remember, driving is a responsibility for all. This includes not texting and driving, driving on the right speed limit, and not making the irresponsibly decision to drink and drive.

It is important to note that the 64-wreck figure only includes those responded by MedStar. Other accidents requiring other emergency medical services occurred, not to mention accidents that did not require them. As a result, there may actually be well over 64 car accidents that occurred in the Fort Worth alone throughout the day on Tuesday.

A Seven-Vehicle Wreck and More

Just to include a sample of the accidents that took place on Tuesday, these included:

• A seven-car accident that took place on I-35 West and Allen Avenue after 1:00 p.m.
• An individual that died in an accident at the Meadowbrook Drive section of Loop 820 shortly after 1:00 p.m.
• An officer from the Fort Worth Police Department that withstood minor injuries in a car accident at Saginaw Boulevard

A meteorologist from the National Weather Service issued a warning for Fort Worth to stay safe amidst the rainy conditions in the area. It is also advised for people to take flash flood warning seriously. Drivers must be especially alert when flash flood warnings take place in order to prepare for their commute, be aware that they need to brake on time, and avoid any type of maneuver that can lead to hydroplaning.

What Makes Rain Dangerous?

With all of these car accidents taking place it is understandable to ask, why does rain make road conditions dangerous? In reality it isn’t rain by itself that makes driving dangerous. There are several factors that can contribute to a car accident when roads are wet. One of these factors is oil and grease. Although roads may seem like they are completely dry, there are really filled with oil and grease that have dropped from vehicles. When it rains, these oils mix with the water and create a soap-like texture on the road’s surface. Imagine trying to run on a road filled with soap. Quite slippery, right? The same concept applies to cars. When vehicles are on the move and suddenly stop, sometimes the soapy material on the road can cause their tires to not grip onto the road immediately, which may be enough time for a wreck to occur.

Another factor is that drivers do not take appropriate safety measures when it is raining. Drivers should reduce their speeds, make sure their head lights and tail lights are on, use their turn signals, and not follow to close behind cars in traffic. Doing the opposite, such as speeding and driving too close to a vehicle, can lead to an unwanted car accident.

What safety tips would you give another driver so they can drive safely when it’s raining outside? Let us know in the comments below and remember, drive safely.

Multiple Gunshot Wounds

There is, however, much more to the accident. Upon investigating the cause of the accident, authorities found that the 23 year-old man had suffered multiple gunshot wounds, which means it is likely he was involved in a shooting in some form or another and escaped in the vehicle. The accident occurred after the driver, travelling westbound, swerved into the eastbound lanes on Scyene Road.

Upon entering the oncoming traffic lane, the driver impacted the other vehicle, head-on. The force of the accident was so great that both vehicles travelled 40 to 60 yards from the intersection. It is reported that the 23 year-old man died shortly after in the hospital. No other injuries were reported.

Why Should You Be Careful Driving in the Weekend?

Driving during the week is one thing, but driving during the weekend is another, for several reasons. First, the majority of traffic is during the time that people drive to and from work. This means that after these hours have passed, the road is not as congested. During the weekend, however, it is a different story.

While there aren’t as many cars on the road, there are other factors that contribute to sometimes terrible accidents, which lead us to the second point: reckless activities. Bad decisions such as drinking and driving, speeding, driving without a seatbelt, and so on, are more likely to happen in a weekend than on a regular work day. Such was the case for the driver that caused the accident, who had multiple gunshot wounds at the time of the accident. This begs the question: why was he shot? Was he involved in some sort of gang activity that resulted him in being shot? Other questions exist that investigators must answer, but due to the fact that the driver died, we may never know.

For this reason, people who choose to drive late in the weekends must do so very carefully, always aware of their surroundings. From the Anderson Law Firm, we encourage all drivers to make responsible decisions when choosing to drive, and remember: drive safely.

The infant, identified as Nevaeh Brooks, was taken to nearby Cook Children’s Medical Center. The baby was pronounced dead at 11:10 in the morning at the hospital.

Were the Victims Wearing Seat Belts?

A common question in regards to this accident is whether or not the man and infant were secured with seat belts at the time of the accident. This is due to the simple fact that if the vehicle had endured an impact from either side, the likeliness that the infant would have been ejected would have been low. In fact, according to Children’s Safety Network, wearing a seat belt reduces fatalities by 71%. For this reason it is very likely that the child was either not in a car seat, in a car seat but not secured with the vehicle’s seat belt, or in the car seat but improperly secured to the vehicle’s seat belt. This points the direction to the cause of the accident to the man that was in the vehicle.

Several questions must be asked in regards to the man, such as:

• Was alcohol a factor?
• Was speed a factor?
• Why wasn’t the infant secured?
• Why wasn’t the man himself secured?
• What other factors are involved that led to the accident?

Of course, these questions can be asked once the man is in stable medical conditions. These and other questions can be asked by an investigator in Fort Worth.

Are You Wearing Your Seat Belt?

Wearing a seat belt is one of the most important things that drivers and passengers must do for the simple reason of staying safe. Accidents can happen in a very unexpected moment, and being secure is a big preventive measure to ensure the safety of the driver and all vehicle occupants. This is especially true in North Texas with the addition of new expressways that allow drivers to avoid traffic and go at high speeds. As construction nears its end (eventually), highways such as I-35 will allow traffic to flow easier, which means speeds will begin to return to normal.

From the Anderson Law Firm, we strongly advise for you to wear your seat belt and to make sure that others in your car are properly secured, and please remember to drive safely.

Speeding Down the Wrong Way

The accident occurred this past Saturday morning near Belt Line Road and Coit Road in Richardson. According to authorities, the accident happened after a driver travelling northbound on Coit Road attempted to go around traffic by going southbound on the same road. When the driver was attempted to perform this maneuver, the driver impacted a pickup truck, which consequently sent the first driver’s vehicle spinning. Then, another vehicle t-boned the first driver’s vehicle. The driver attempting to out-maneuver traffic was pronounced dead at the scene. Footage of the first vehicle shows a completely destroyed car, with pieces of metal of the vehicles involved on the road.

According to nearby witnesses, the impact of the accident was so strong that they could hear it from inside of a restaurant. Other witnesses noted the impact sounded like an earthquake. Many residents nearby came near the scene of accident, as they were shocked of the severity of the impact.

How Do You Deal With Traffic?

Dealing with traffic can be an unbearable task, especially with all of the construction taking place in North Texas. Interstates such as I-35 (east and west), state highway 183, and other roads with high traffic can easily be packed with cars throughout the week. Even more, commuting time between Fort Worth and Dallas has been elongated due to road changes, car accidents, and traffic caused by drivers who either not going on the limit or are driving distracted. This can cause an otherwise normal half-hour drive to turn to an hour drive, causing drivers to be impatient. The importance is not to be impatient and to control one’s temperament.

On February 21, a house fire broke out in a home on the 3500 block of Durango Drive in Dallas, burning one of the family members who lived there. A day later, a second house fire broke out in a home on that same block; one person was taken to the hospital as a result. The following day, on February 23, a home on the 3500 block of Espanola Drive exploded, killing 12-year-old Linda Rogers. Homeowners in the area were evacuated as a precaution, and later Atmos Energy chose to shut off gas service for about 2,800 homes in that area while they worked to fix the leaking pipes. 

We've Seen This Before

We’re angered to hear about the home gas explosions happening in Dallas, and especially Atmos’ response. They’ve tried to say that the gas leaks were “unprecedented” because of the recent rain and shifting soils, but of course that’s ridiculous. We have rain like this in DFW at least once a year. Besides, Atmos knows that their pipes are old and leaking. This was just like the issue that caused an explosion in one of our client’s home a couple of years back (pictured); gas leaked from a broken pipe in her neighborhood, through the soil and into her bathroom. When an innocent child flipped the light switch, the house exploded.

In order for Atmos to be held responsible, we needed to show that their negligence caused the gas leak, and that gas leak caused the fire. We examined the gas main outside the home, which was originally installed in the early 1970s, and worked with experts to find the cause of the leak. We hired specialists to drill into the house's foundation in order to show how the natural gas migrated from a broken pipe next to the street to under the home. The experts explained how natural gas - which normally smells like rotten eggs - can lose its odor when it travels through soil. 

With all of these things combined, we built a case to show that Atmos could have prevented this gas explosion. We showed that Atmos was negligent then, and we have no doubt that they're negligent now. We can only hope that Atmos steps up and takes responsibility for the recent Dallas gas leaks and all the suffering they've caused these families. 

A Median, a Ligh Pole, and a Drunk Driver

A car accident that occurred in eastern Dallas resulted in one person dead and another injured. Authorities say the wreck happened after a man in his early 20s travelling southbound Ferguson Road lost control of his SUV, impacted a median, and ended onto oncoming traffic. In the midst of the accident, the driver impacted a light pole which fell on the SUV.

Moments after, another driver was travelling northbound Ferguson Road (the same place where the first driver resulted in), and impacted both the SUV and the light pole. Because the speed at which the second driver was going on was high, the light pole was smashed into the windshield of the SUV. Police say that a passenger was pronounced dead at the scene, although it is not clear whether the passenger was in the SUV or in the second vehicle.

The driver of the second vehicle was transported to the hospital without serious injuries. Upon examinations, the driver of the second vehicle was found to be under the influence of alcohol, was arrested and charged with intoxication manslaughter.

What Does Intoxication Manslaughter Mean?

“Intoxication manslaughter” is a term that many people have heard of, but some may not know what it actually means. Let’s break down both words in the term. First, let’s look at “intoxication”. Someone who is intoxicated is someone who is over their 0.08% blood alcohol level (BAC). In the State of Texas, this is defined as being over the legal limit that an individual can drive. Second, let’s look at “manslaughter”. Manslaughter is similar to homicide, but an important and key difference is that a person’s death was caused by criminal negligence. In other words, the death was not intentionally caused.

Putting these two words together, and the result is an unintentional death caused by someone who was driving over the legal limit of alcohol consumption. In other words, drunk driving.

Why Do People Still Drive Under the Influence?

In the state of Texas, intoxication manslaughter is considered a second degree felony, punishable up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Additionally, those convicted of intoxication manslaughter must serve a minimum of 240 hours of community service. So this begs the question: if people’s lives are at risk, and your future is at risk, why make the irresponsible and negligent decision of driving under the influence?

Under no conditions should someone drive under the influence, and now with advances in technology there is no reason that a driver should not be able to get home without their vehicle. What tips would you do if you see someone trying to driver while they are under the influence of alcohol? Let us know in the comments below, and remember: drive safely.

This was the case for a man who died this week after his car hit a barrier in Grapevine, Texas.

High Speeds and Altitudes

According to official reports, a 77-year-old driving a Corvette died after his car impacted a wall, went airborne over the highway median, and landed onto oncoming traffic. The accident occurred on highway 121, close to William D. Tate. Investigators found speed to be a factor in the accident. Additionally, several pieces of debris impacted a couple of other cars on the highway, but no other injuries were reported.

Traffic was closed for nearly an hour on highway 121, William D. Tate, and northbound highway 360.

Why Fast Cars Get Airborne

Taking into account the Corvette, it is worth taking note why these types of cars can easily get airborne if an interference in the road takes places. First, let’s look at the design. Unlike trucks or SUVs, Corvettes, Ford GTs, and other cars designed to go very fast have a unique design that allows for optimal levels of velocity to take place. This includes adding features such as a narrow front design to allow the car cut through high winds when they go a certain speed, and adding a spoiler on the back to allow the car to maintain stability. Take for example a traditional SUV and a race car used in the Formula 1 races (below).

As you can see, the SUV (left) appears wide and heavy, while the race car (right) has a flat, light design. Of course, both vehicles have two very distinct purposes for why they were designed, but it is important to note that the race vehicle has a design meant to go at high, stable speeds. Second, taking this design into consideration, it can become clear why interference on the road, such as a bump or an impact, would affect these vehicles very differently. The SUV’s bigger size and heavier weight could easily stabilize the mechanical traction if an object were to get under a tire. On the other hand, the lack of weight and the great speed that the race car has could be of little help if it comes into contact with an object. For this reason, a sports car can become airborne due to the physics of the impact.

To Avoid a Speeding Accident, Which Car Should I Pick Drive?

Although it may be tempting to blame a speeding accident on a vehicle, the reality is that what is controlling the speed isn’t the vehicle: it’s the driver. For this reason, whether someone is driving a minivan or the fastest car in the world, it is up to the driver to maintain safe driving precautions.

What recommendations would you give that can help avoid speeding? Let us know in the comments below, and remember, drive safely.

A Fatal Combination

According to official reports, a car accident occurred early Sunday morning in the 3100 block of Walnut Hill in Dallas, Texas. The accident consisted of two vehicles. The wreck occurred after a driver in a Mustang, speeding, rear-ended a Honda Civic. The Civic, transporting two men - a 35-year-old and a 45-year-old - impacted a tree, and due to the force of the accident the passenger was ejected. The back portion of the car was split in two. Both men were pronounced dead at the scene. As to the Mustang, the vehicle spun towards the right and impacted a nearby power pole, which broke in half.

However, there is an additional piece of information that leads investigators to know the cause of the wreck. According to police officers, the driver of the Mustang, a 23-year-old man, was intoxicated when he was driving. As a result, the driver was charged with two counts of intoxication manslaughter.

Drivers Should Be Careful Driving at Night

Although all forms of driving in any time of the day should be done with safety, driving at night should be performed at equal or higher safety levels.

This is due to a variety of reasons. First, as was the case for this accident, drivers who have consumed alcohol are more likely to be on the road at later hours of the day, and during the weekend. Second, drivers assume that there is a decreased presence of police on the road at later hours in the evening.

This can make drivers drive recklessly and do things they otherwise would not do, such as speeding or not using their blinkers.  These are simple things that can cause an accident, which is why drivers must be alert at all times without any exceptions.

How Can Driving Be Safe at Night?

As mentioned above, driving at night can be a very dangerous task - but it doesn’t have to be that way. Driving is a responsibility that all drivers must have. Tasks such as speeding, texting, and being distracted can lead to unwanted consequences. Do you have any recommendations for drivers who are planning to drive at night? What would you advise them to do? Let us know in the comments below, and remember: safe driving.

A Terrible Collision

According to official reports, the motorcycle accident occurred Friday morning on highway I-35 W, northbound, close to the busy Alliance Airport. The accident occurred after a motorcyclist collided with a car. The driver of the motorcycle was killed after her motorcycle flipped due to the impact. She was pronounced dead at the scene. It is still not clear how the accident took place.

According to witnesses, the highway was closed so the wreck could be cleared and investigated. Whether or not there were other cars involve in the accident is still under investigation.

Motorcyclists and Drivers Have a Dual Responsibility

It is no secret that keeping the roads we drive on safe is a responsibility that all drivers must have. Motorcycle accidents such as the one mentioned above could have been avoided, if one of the parties involved had made a certain maneuver, hadn’t been on their phone, or should have been paying a bit more attention. Even though these tragic accidents have occurred, there is no way that we can go back and fix them or somehow go back in time to prevent it all from happening.

What we do have, however, is the opportunity to prevent accidents from happening in the present and future. Thinking ahead before we drive our cars, trucks, and motorcycles can significantly reduce the likelihood of an accident taking place. Motorcyclists should be aware of all vehicles and avoid making wrong maneuvers, such as going in between two lanes of traffic, speeding on a shoulder, or switching lanes with little to no time for other drivers to notice. By the same token, vehicles drivers should be fully aware of motorcyclists and give them the proper space they need.

Do You Have Any Motorcycle Safety Tips?

There are many ways that motorcyclists and drivers can keep the road free of harm’s way. What suggestions would you offer to people that can help keep safety a top priority between motorcyclists and drivers? Let us know in the comments below, because discussing the matter will help spread awareness, which in turn can help prevent accidents from occurring in the future.

Before you go out on the road again make sure to take the proper precautions so ensure the safety of everyone on the road and remember, if you or a loved one have been injured in a motorcycle accident, please do not hesitate and give us a call. The Anderson Law Firm is here to help.

A new challenge, or fad, has come, this time being in the form of eating Tide detergent pods. Yes, you read it correctly. Teens are eating Tide pods and recording their reactions on social media. Find out why it’s dangerous below.

Past Dangerous Challenges

First, let’s take a look at previous challenges. These challenges have been prominent from teenagers to young adults, and each is very dangerous. Here are three popular (and unsafe) challenges that have occurred within the past ten years:

• Spoonful of cinnamon challenge. This challenge involves placing a spoonful of cinnamon in one’s mouth. This causes the mouth to severely dry, and can cause asphyxiation, as was the case for Brianna Radar’s family, a Kentucky mother whose son died because of the challenge.
• Saltine crackers challenge: Similar to the cinnamon challenge, this challenge involves placing several saltine crackers in one’s mouth and an attempt to eat them without swallowing. This causes the mouth to become very dry, and could cause asphyxiation.
• Gallon of milk challenge: This challenge involves attempting to drink an entire gallon of milk in one take (by “chugging” it). This is very dangerous because of the consequences associated with drinking great amounts of milk at once due to great amounts of lactose, casein, and calcium found in milk, not to mention liquid being slipped into one’s lungs.

Seems crazy that anyone would take part of these challenges, right? As absurd as these challenges sound, the Tide pod challenge can have even worse consequences.

The Tide Pod Challenge

People - most specifically, teenagers and young adults - have started a challenge that can be even more dangerous than those mentioned above: eating Tide pods. Tide pods are detergents made to go inside a washing machine to clean clothes. There is no danger in using Tide pods as they were designed to be used, and no harm should be expected from using them in the laundry.

There is, however, a big problem that arises when a Tide pod is ingested.

Health Problems

Injuries from consuming Tide pods have involved:

• Respiratory arrest
• Injury to the esophagus
• Injury to organs
• Lung failure
• Seizures
• Comas
• Death

What Other Suggestions Do You Have?

The chemicals found in Tide pods are not and should not be consumed in any way. As the sample of injuries listed above (many other types of injuries can be caused by consuming Tide pods) show, eating a Tide pod is certainly something that no one should take part of. For this reason, it is highly suggested to:

• Not eat Tide pods
• Keep Tide pods out of reach of children
• Keep detergents, chemicals, and anything else that is not meant to be consumed.

What other suggestions do you have for staying away from dangerous challenges? What other challenges do you know of that people should avoid at all costs? Let us know in the comments below.

Why is Silly String Flammable?

In order to fully understand Silly String, it is important to understand the science behind it first.

Let’s take a look at what’s holding the Silly String: an aerosol can. Aerosol cans (or spray) are cans that use a type of propellant to force materials out. The propellant itself may be flammable, as it can be composed of liquefied gas or another mixture.

Second, let’s take a look at the actual Silly String. The string consists of a formula, “polyisobutyl methacrylate”, that forms the basis for the string. This is mixed with another ingredient that turns the otherwise liquid into foam, “sorbitan trioleate”.

Now that we know what’s inside and outside of Silly String, we can see that the chemicals inside the string and the aerosol components, when coming into contact with fire, can be very dangerous. 

Hazardous Situations

Let’s take a look at a couple of situations where Silly String can be a hazard:

• Birthday Parties As mentioned earlier, birthday parties can inadvertently hold a danger when Silly String is exposed to birthday cake candles and other decorations that hold fire. For this reason, it is advised for Silly String to be used at a distance from candles, matches, and other sources of fires. Silly String itself may not be dangerous; it’s the exposure of the Silly String to the fire that can be dangerous.
• Grilling Events Similarly, exposing Silly String to an outdoor cooking grille can be equally dangerous. Furthermore, due to the nature of grilling that requires strong fuel agents (such as coal or gas), a Silly String exposure can create an unwanted ball of fire - literally.
• Fireplaces: Especially during holidays such as Christmas and Thanksgiving where a fireplace may be on, it is important to keep Silly String and other flammable objects away from fire. Due to the fact that fireplaces have a continuous source of gas fueling the fire (such as natural gas or propane), an out of control fire can be very dangerous to a living space.

> Fun fact: did you know Silly String is used by the military to detect tripwires for explosive traps? This was the case in 2006, where it was used by American troops in the Iraq War.

What Other Fun Products Are Dangerous?

Silly String is something that many don’t consider to be a safety hazard. However, as mentioned here, there are products that exist that can be a danger. For this reason, it is important to read the safety and hazard warnings that are on products’ labels to avoid an unwanted situation, such as a ball of fire occurring after Silly String is launched. 

Let us know in the comments below what other fun products can be a safety hazard. 

Here we take a look at three areas where buyers should be cautious in their journey in buying a used car.

Buying from a Private Seller vs. Car Dealership

With the increase of use of technology, it’s easier to go on Craigslist and search for a used vehicle. Many people do this, and rightly so; no need to drive from one car dealership to another in search of a good deal. A great portion of listings on Craigslist and other non-dealership sites are from people selling their cars directly. While this seems fair game, there potential buyers should be sure of several points.

First, buyers should make sure that the car posted on the internet is in fact the car being sold. This may appear silly, but it would not be rare for someone to search for the exact same image of their car in a search engine. This means that once you drive many miles to meet the buyer, the car may actually be a different one of less value. Second, people should make sure to check the car’s VIN number. The VIN (vehicle identification number) holds detailed information of the car’s history. Things like if the car was in an accident, totaled, or used by multiple owners can be listed in a VIN search engine. To check a car’s VIN, simply search “VIN check” in the search engine of your choice.

Buying a Salvaged Vehicle

Purchasing a salvaged vehicle may seem like a great money saver, but the reality is that it can bring unwanted problems in the future. Salvaged vehicles are those that were involved in a car accident, deemed totaled, and then repaired.

While they may look like any other vehicle, people should have the engine thoroughly inspected along with the car frame to make sure that there is no remaining damage. “It’s in the inside that counts” is a phrase that means that what’s inside of people (how they are, personality), is just as important as their outside. This can be applied to salvaged vehicles as well. Also, it is important to note that buyers who purchase a salvaged vehicle may have a hard time insuring it, because insurance companies may be reluctant to offer coverage for a car that has had a history of being totaled.

Buying a Vehicle with Defects

This is something that can be applied to purchasers looking to buy a new or used car from a car dealership. Sometimes car salespeople will say anything to sell a car. However, it is important to be very careful from buying cars that have known defects. Don’t let the salesperson get away with saying that if you ever have problems with the car, you could take it to get serviced. Instead, a better option would be to move on to another car (or car dealership). It is not uncommon for salesperson to ignore your phone calls asking for a repair they offered. At the end of the day, it all comes down to business to them, and your hard earned money.

What Car Buying Tips Do You Have?

The suggestions mentioned above are only a few out of many precautions potential car buyers should take. What would you recommend a car buyer to do before they purchase a car? Do you have any stories of a bad experiencing buying a car? Let us know in the comments below.

Tesla does this by using completely electronic parts, interface, and - you guessed it - an electric motor. Seen as one of the most important concepts-turned-reality in the twenty-first century, many drivers are eager to purchase a Tesla due to several benefits, such as using electricity instead of gasoline to power their vehicles, thus saving considerable amounts of money and preventing further carbon emissions. With all of this sounding like a no-brainer for drivers, drivers have been shocked when they find out that Teslas aren’t sold in Texas. Why? Let’s find out.

Texas Regulations: Are they Aimed Against the Car Brand or Buyer?

Texas, like a handful of other states, has a set of laws that restrict car buyers from purchasing vehicles from the manufacturer directly. For example, in Texas, if you want to buy the vehicle “Wheely”, you have to purchase it from the car dealership “Car-Land” (these are made-up names for purposes of this conversation). The reason behind this is for the car seller (not the car brand) not to be left out. Silly, isn’t it?

However, groups such as the National Auto Dealers Association argue that this system is needed to protect car buyers and competition. This train of thought has started to change with some. For example, a Texas lawmaker introduced a piece of legislation last year eliminating the ban, arguing that it does not alight with the idea of a free-market. Additionally, popularity with the car brand has increased significantly and the push may soon see its results. In the meantime, those who wish to purchase a Tesla have to order one online. Even though there are showrooms in Texas (such as in Southlake), buying the vehicle straight out of a dealership is not an option - yet.

Will This Change in the Future?

As hinted above, as technology keeps advancing and new innovations surface, restrictions such as the one mentioned here should be eliminated. In fact, as technology companies work with lawmakers and the public on these kinds of issues, the process of implementing a new technology should be a smoother process. Whether it is Tesla or another car brand that does not operate on gasoline, the future should be one filled with eco-friendly car brands that don’t harm the environment. As has been the case with emerging technology decades before - and as more people get acquainted with these new forms of technology - there is nothing to worry about. You may even be able to buy your Tesla in a very short time.

What do you think about car buyers not being able to directly purchase a Tesla in Texas? What suggestions would you have for the lawmakers or car company? Comment below and remember, driver safely. 

A resolution that the majority of people perhaps do not think about is driving in a safer and more efficient way. Are you one of those people? Not to worry, we are here to help. Here are three New Year’s resolutions for safe driving.

Control Your Speed

Speeding is one of the biggest contributors to car accidents, whether it is a driver being rear-ended or an accident occurring after someone sped through a red light, speeding is something that is dangerous, but can be controlled. Drivers who have a tendency to speed could choose to pay better attention to their driving habits in order to know how the speeding affects their driving. Furthermore, speeding is something that can be easily fixed; all a driver has to do is drive at the speed limit.

Be Alert

Being aware of your surroundings is an important task as a driver. Not only must you pay attention to your own driving behavior, you also have to watch out for any dangers on the road. For drivers who may have a tendency to be focused on a single driving task (such as knowing when to put on a turn signal), it may be a good idea to start paying attention to the complete driving environment. Things such as figuring out if a driver is going to fast or too slow and taking appropriate action may be the difference between a simple driver and an alert driver.

Help Others

Have you ever been driving and all of a sudden have to stop at the shoulder because your tire blew out? For anyone that has had that happened, it is a frustrating and time-consuming task, especially if you have nobody to help you. How much better would it have been if someone simply stopped at the side of the road and helped you? Helping others is important for everybody, especially if there is an imminent danger present. This year, take the selfless act and help another driver who is in need. You do not know if they have help coming on the way, or if they do not know how to change a tire, or even if they have been in an accident and require someone to contact the emergency services.

What Are Your New Year’s Resolutions?

The New Year’s resolutions mentioned here can be seen as a starter of a long list of self-improving habits. Do you have suggestions that can help a driver improve in their driving? Mention them in the comment below, and as always, safe driving.

There have been common themes from people who have irresponsibly decided to drive while intoxicated, and some are based on assumptions that they themselves have made. Here are three assumptions about drinking and driving, before a driver has taken the wheel.

Assumption #1: “I’m Not Drunk”

This is perhaps one of the most common assumptions made by someone who is intoxicated. When an individual is drunk, their cognitive skills (e.g. thinking, rationalizing, etc.) are negatively affected. What was a clear, focused, and well thought-out plan can turn into a blurry and unclear train of thought. For this reason, intoxicated people can incorrectly assume that they are not drunk, when they actually are.

Assumption #2: “I Can Still Drive”

Similar to the first assumption, people who admit they are drunk can say that they can still drive to their next destination, which in reality is a really bad idea. People who are around the drunk individual who is thinking about driving should be quick to stop them from doing so. They may be upset at the moment, but it is well worth the intervention. Instead, someone can call an Uber, a taxi, a relative of them, or simply take them home. The favor will be widely accepted, because the driver can get safely home, no one is placed in danger, and you will have the benefit of having your friend alive and well - instead of having to verify their body in a morgue.

Assumption #3: “I Live Really Close From Here”

One’s perception of time and distance may be jeopardized under the effects of high levels of alcohol. Simple calculations such as adding time or measuring the distance between one point and another can lead to false conclusions, such as a distance being further or closer than it actually is. Even if the intoxicated individual lives close, it is important to play it safe (and responsible) and not allow what would otherwise be the drunk driver to driver. Even if you do not know the person that is intoxicated, stopping them from driving can be a lifesaving choice for many.

What Are Other Incorrect Assumptions About Drunk Driving?

There are many other false assumptions made by drunk drivers before they choose to take the wheel. What are other assumptions? Remember, the holidays are meant to be enjoyed in the company of others - not sadly in the funeral of someone who was killed by a drunk driver. If you see someone wanting to drive after they have had too much to drink, it is your duty to provide a safer option. It may be a real lifesaver.

From the Anderson Law Firm, we wish you and your loved ones a Happy New Year.

Prepare for Cold Temperatures

Even though cold weather has been more and more common throughout the last couple of weeks, with winter officially here the temperatures are expected to drop even more. Furthermore, weather forecasts say there is a possibility of snow during the week of Christmas. While the majority of people look forward to a Christmas accompanied with snow, there are several hazards the frozen precipitation can bring.

Doing tasks such as preparing the driveway in the event of snow or ice and having tire chains ready to go is a good method of preventing unwanted accidents from occurring the Christmas, which is something no one wants to experience.

> Want more information? Check out one of recent blogs on how to drive in frozen roads in Texas.

Avoid Getting Sick

This is a big one. It can be easy to get carried away with driving in between different destinations and taking part of activities outdoors that someone can get sick. Here is a sample of holiday-related things that can cause sickness:

• Stepping outside with your hair wet
• Not taking a jacket, coat, or sweater outside
• Stepping on surfaces covered with snow or ice without wearing proper shoes
• Driving with the window down for too long

As you can probably tell, these things are probably things that our parents told us when we were young in order to avoid getting sick, and in reality they are more than true. Nobody wants to be caught with the cold or flu during the holidays, which is why it is very important to take care of oneself and others. Already sick? If you are already sick with the cold or flu, then taking appropriate medication and taking care of yourself would be the most appropriate thing to do if a speedy recovery is desired.

What Are Your Christmas Safety Tips?

Have any Christmas tips that are worth sharing? Let us know in the comments below. Remember, Christmas can be a very fun time of the year, which is why it is important to have safety as a priority in order to avoid unwanted injuries from occurring. If an injury does occur, such as you being injured in an accident caused by a driver that had too much to drink, then you know you have a fighting legal team by your side.

If you are in an accident during the Christmas weekend, please feel free and contact us. We have an experienced legal team ready to answer any question you have regarding your case, and we are more than happy to help guide you in the unwanted event of an injury.

From the Anderson Law Firm, we wish you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas.