Category: Personal Injuries
How to Stay Safe on Blackout Wednesday
November 20, 2025 | Adriel B. Villarreal
The night before Thanksgiving, known as “Blackout Wednesday” or “Drinksgiving,” has become a dangerous night for driving due to widespread binge drinking. Most college students are home for the holiday and spend Thanksgiving Eve partying with friends. Many adults of all ages also go to the local bar, enjoying the night before their day off from work. Unfortunately, this binge drinking also leads to an increased rate of impaired driving on Thanksgiving Eve. To help protect our community, we’re sharing these tips to help you stay safe on Blackout Wednesday. Don’t Drink and Drive We hope this first one is obvious, but it still needs to be said. Even small amounts of alcohol can impair your judgment and make driving dangerous for yourself and everyone around you. DUI and DWI charges are also serious matters that could bring jail time, large fines, and license revocation. If you do drink on Blackout Wednesday, have a designated driver or use a rideshare service. This is a vital step to take even if you were planning on driving. Find a ride and come back for your car once you’re sober. Drunk driving causes approximately 11,000 deaths in the United States every year. Drinking and driving simply isn’t worth the risk. Tell Someone Your Plans If you…
Read MoreWinter Car Emergency Kit: 20 Recommended Items
October 23, 2025 | Adriel B. Villarreal
Driving during the winter can be hazardous. Severe weather, accidents, and engine troubles can happen at any moment. That’s why you should always drive prepared. If you do find yourself stranded on the road during the winter, having these emergency supplies in your vehicle will help you stay safe until help arrives. Stocking caps, warm socks, mittens, boots, and layers: Frigid temperatures are likely to be the biggest threat to your wellbeing if you get stranded during the winter, so warm clothes are essential. Blankets or sleeping bags: If you’re traveling a long distance or in a remote area where you could be stranded for several hours or even days, then blankets or a sleeping bag will help keep you warm and give you the opportunity to rest while you wait for help. Hand and foot warmers: Small and compact, hand and foot warmers are easy to store and provide lots of heat. First-aid kit: Bandages, antiseptic wipes, sterile gauze pads, tweezers, pain relievers, and other basic medical supplies are critical for addressing injuries sustained in an accident. Drinking water: Bring at least one gallon of emergency drinking water per person on extended road trips. High-energy, non-perishable food: Foods like trail mix, protein bars, dried fruits, unsalted and canned nuts, raisins, and peanut…
Read MoreTips to Avoid Winter Injuries
December 10, 2024 | Adriel B. Villarreal
The holiday season is an exciting time for many, but the hustle and bustle of shopping and traveling can prove dangerous when combined with winter weather. Whether it’s snow, black ice, or a wet floor, these hazards can cause serious harm. Follow these tips to avoid winter injuries and stay safe all season long. Slow Down We understand that the holidays are busy—you have gifts to buy and places to be. But many people incur winter injuries while they are in a hurry. Take care of yourself by using caution and slowing down when walking outdoors. Black ice can appear suddenly and unexpectedly, and even visible patches of ice can be more treacherous than they seem. Use handrails whenever they are available, and take short, slow steps. Also, be mindful of puddles and slick floors inside buildings, especially near entryways that see a lot of traffic. Dress Wisely Wearing the right footwear and clothing can make all the difference to avoid winter injuries. Make sure you wear boots or shoes with good traction. Avoid wearing old shoes if the tread is worn thin. You can also add ice grips or cleats to your shoes to make walking on slippery surfaces even safer. Make sure to dress in warm layers, too, as cold temperatures…
Read More