How to Decide Whether to Lease or Buy a New Vehicle

How to Decide Whether to Lease or Buy a New Vehicle

By Full Editorial on

If your current vehicle is no longer reliable or is too small for your household, a purchase may be the best option. Drivers who don’t tend to put a lot of miles on their vehicle each year may be better suited to a lease. The tips below can help you make your decision.

Your Personal Finances

Make a list of what you need out of your next car and compare it to what’s available from your dealership. With this information, you can get a ballpark understanding of what your payment will be and the available loan terms.

As a general rule, a lease payment is going to be less than a loan payment. Of course, you’ll want to do your own comparisons. However, if you don’t plan to take the vehicle on long road trips, it’s entirely possible that leasing a vehicle may actually be easier on your budget, especially if you need a larger vehicle than you currently have.

Parents with children getting ready to leave the nest may struggle to pack the whole family into one vehicle. A short lease of a larger vehicle, such as an SUV with seating for 7 or more may be ideal. You may be able to purchase a smaller, less expensive sedan in just a year or two to use as a daily driver.

Necessary Vehicle Capabilities

If you have a small business and need a truck for work, purchasing a working vehicle with the towing and hauling capacity you need is key. However, many work trucks have limited space for passengers. Pickups at a higher trim level might have more room for people, but the cost of any truck at these higher trim levels may get in the way.

In such cases, it may make sense to purchase a certified pre-owned work truck with the capacity you need, especially if you currently have a reliable family vehicle. Bring your requirements to your dealership so you can carefully study the specs; even a rugged work truck can become overloaded and become a danger to drive.

Location Considerations

Weather can also have an impact on the best vehicle for you to drive. Those used to mild winters may need to spend a few years in the frozen north. In such cases, your rear wheel drive truck or SUV may not be safe.

If you’re planning a temporary relocation in snow country, leasing a vehicle that is known for great handling could be a terrific investment in your safety. An all-wheel drive SUV will ride a bit higher, making it easy to stay out of mud, slush, and snow. The all-wheel drive feature can even give you a bit more purchase on icy roads. If you choose to stay in a cold country, you can purchase the vehicle or extend the lease and keep enjoying those safety features.

There are many new cars with a terrific price point right now, especially if you can work with a base model trim level. Don’t rule out your ability to afford a purchase! If your budget is stretched too far, a lease can be an affordable option.

3 Ways How Installing a Sump Pump Can Help Your House

3 Ways How Installing a Sump Pump Can Help Your House

By Full Editorial on

3 Ways How Installing a Sump Pump Can Help Your House

Managing runoff around your home is a very important step in protecting it. That’s why we install gutters and downspouts that properly move water away from the house during rain events. However, the water that gets under your house requires just as much attention, and a sump pump can prevent just as many problems as your gutters do. Here are three ways that you can help your house by installing a sump pump.

1- Preventing Basement Flooding

Even the best-built homes are subject to flooding when rainfall rates outrun the natural ability of the basement floor to contain the water beneath it until it can drain away. When heavy rain hits, a basement without a sump pump will quickly experience a backup that can cause several problems when it finally gets into the living space.

Floor coverings like carpet and wood laminate will become waterlogged and ruined, as will the baseboards and the lower portion of paneling or sheetrock. Furniture and other upholstered items can be damaged or destroyed. Even unfinished basements can see damage as the water finds its way into stored items like clothing. A sump pump can keep the backlog of water from rising high enough to enter the living space, saving the basement’s finishes, furnishings, and contents.

2- Reducing Pressure on Basement Walls

One of the most problematic developments in homes with basements is cracks in the walls that allow water to seep into the basement. These can be even more problematic than backups under the floor because even a minor rainfall can start dribbling through the walls. Waterlogged soils against the walls are often to blame for these cracks as the heavy soil pushes in against the walls. Poured concrete walls are more durable than block walls, but neither is totally immune from this problem.

A sump pump will pull the water out from under the basement floor, allowing water to drain quickly down from the walls and under the floor where the pump can remove it. The resulting reduction in pressure on the walls will reduce the risk of cracks developing.

3- Fighting Mold Growth

Indoor air quality is a very important topic for homeowners. One of the biggest reasons for problems with allergies inside a home is high moisture levels that support the growth of mold and mildew that trigger breathing problems. Basements are particularly problematic with this issue because they are darker, cooler, and less likely to air out throughout the day because they aren’t commonly occupied.

Water leaching into the basement can support the growth of problematic mold and mildew, so using a sump pump to control that water is a major step toward creating better indoor air quality.

The most damaging environmental factor for your home is water. Whether you’re making sure it runs properly off the roof or moves quickly out from under your basement, you’re doing your home a favor by managing runoff properly. Making a sump pump part of the plan is an upgrade your home can’t do without.

7 Ideas to Help Create a Better Sleep Routine That Works for You

7 Ideas to Help Create a Better Sleep Routine That Works for You

By Full Editorial on

As you go through your daily life, it can be difficult to fall asleep because of all your worries. This does not have to be the way it is for you for the rest of your life. You can promote a better sleep routine, and you will learn how here.

1. Go to Bed and Wake Up at the Same Time Every Night and Day

Your body has an internal clock, known as the “circadian rhythm.” You train this clock to put you to sleep at night and wake up in the morning by going to bed at the same time every night. You must also get up at the same time in the morning. This means that you will not be able to sleep in on Saturday and Sunday, but it will be for an important cause. Once your body becomes accustomed to going to sleep at the same time every night, you will begin to fall asleep without tossing and turning. In the morning, you will notice that you are especially refreshed.

2. Do Not Eat During the Night

Try to stop eating for two or three hours before going to bed. This gives your digestive system time to work its magic and settle down before it is time to fall asleep. You will want to avoid alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine at this time because the effects of nicotine and caffeine will take longer to wear off and will keep you up at night. Although alcohol has a sedative effect, it does not keep you from waking up during the night.

3. Do Not Sleep During the Day

If you take a long nap during the day, it will affect your nightly sleep. If you sleep during the day and work at night, you may take a nap before work so that you reduce your sleep deficit.

4. Make Your Bedroom a Comfortable Place

The bedroom is for very specific activities. Therefore, you should not wait until you are in bed to have long discussions, watch movies, or work on your laptop. If you do these things, you will not have the best sleep hygiene, and it will not lead to the best quality of sleep. Turn your bedroom into a place that encourages sleep. This includes setting the temperature between 60 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit, putting up black-out curtains, placing comfortable pillows on the bed, and keeping all screens out of the bedroom.

5. Choose to Exercise Long Before Bedtime

Exercise is a good way to promote good sleep hygiene, but if you do it at the wrong time, it will not have the intended effect. When you exercise, it increases the number of hormones that stimulate your body, and this is not what you want to do before you try to go to sleep. The best times for exercise are in the early morning or the afternoon. If you exercise an hour before bed, you will have difficulties falling asleep.

6. Relax Your Mind

Bedtime is not the time to begin worrying about everything under the sun. To avoid this, you can meditate, do yoga stretches, or progressive muscle relaxation before going to bed.

7. Try CBD Products

CBD products exist that help you fall asleep and get the best quality of sleep possible. It’s best to speak to a healthcare professional who can help you find the right CBD products for your needs and lifestyle.

Essential Tips To Choose The Right Dentist

Essential Tips To Choose The Right Dentist

By Staff Account on

Finding a good dentist is tough. Dr. Cathy Taylor-Osborne says having a “dental home” matters for health. Our guide helps you choose the right dentist easily. Keep reading…

Key Factors in Choosing the Right Dentist

Picking the right dentist matters a lot for your mouth health. It all starts with their schooling and years fixing teeth, plus what other people say about them online.

Credentials and Experience

Check if the dentist belongs to the American Dental Association (ADA). This is a sign they follow strict rules for dental care. Learn where your dentist studied and got their training.

Schools teach different skills, and this can affect your treatment. Make sure they keep learning new things in their field. Dentists should always update their knowledge through continuing education.

 

Contact the Special Care Dentistry Association for dentists who know how to treat special needs patients. If you don’t have dental insurance, look for affordable care at local health departments or dental schools. It’s key to know how your dentist prevents tooth problems and what kind of sleep or numbing methods they use during treatment.

 

Recommendations and Reviews

After checking a dentist’s credentials, look at what others say about them. Ask friends or family for their suggestions. They can share their experiences and tell you if they liked the dental services they received.

Your family doctor or local pharmacist might also know good dentists to suggest.

Look online for reviews of dentists in your area. Social media and websites provide lots of information from patients. The American Dental Association’s website can help too, with recommendations from local or state dental societies.

Reading these reviews will help you choose the right dentist for your oral health care needs.

Assessing Your Dental Needs

Knowing what you need helps in picking the right tooth doctor. Think about if you’re looking for regular check-ups, a specialist like an orthodontist for braces, or someone skilled in root canal work.

Services Offered

Dentists offer many services to keep your teeth healthy. They do routine cleanings and check-ups to prevent problems. If you have a toothache, they can help with treatments like fillings or root canals.

For those who want better-looking teeth, they offer crowns and whitening services. They also give advice on how to care for your teeth at home.

Some dentists provide special care for patients with unique needs. This includes emergency dental care, translating services for clear communication, and help for people who feel very scared of going to the dentist.

The next thing to think about is where the dental office is located and how easy it is to get there.

Office Location and Accessibility

Choosing a dentist near your home or work makes visits easier. Look for dental offices with hours that fit your schedule. Make sure the dentist’s office is easy to get to from where you live or work.

This means checking if public transport goes there if you use it. It’s also important the dental facility can meet special needs if you or someone in your family needs extra help.

Check if they have times open when you can go, like early mornings, evenings, or weekends. Some dentists offer appointments outside of usual work hours. This helps if you’re busy during the day.

Always see if the office is part of your health plan network to avoid extra costs. Knowing this saves money and stress later on.

Evaluating the Dental Office

Check out the dentist’s office before you decide. See if it’s clean and well-organized, and notice how the staff talks to you.

Cleanliness and Organization

A clean dental office is a must. It shows the dentist cares about health and safety. Look for tidy treatment rooms and waiting areas. The staff should use gloves and protective gear during dental treatments.

This protects you from germs.

Good organization matters too. You want to find everything easy when you visit. Dental offices should have clear signs for where to go or what to do next. They should keep your appointment times without making you wait too long because of mix-ups or lost files.

Staff Friendliness and Communication

Good communication is key at a dental office. You need to ask if the dentist and staff explain things well. They should talk about how to keep teeth healthy. It’s also important they know about your insurance and ways to pay.

If you speak another language, see if they have help for that. The team must be nice and ready to answer any questions.

The office should tell you clearly about missed appointments policy and fees. Check if the staff understand your dental benefits plan too. Sharing past experiences with them helps improve care.

Always make sure they give instructions on brushing right and taking care of gums.

Conclusion

Picking the right dentist makes a big difference for your teeth. Check their skills, where they learned, and how long they’ve been working. Friends’ tips can guide you too. Make sure the office is easy to get to and open when you need it.

A clean place with friendly people matters a lot. Ask about costs and if they take your insurance. The right choice keeps your smile bright and healthy.

Tips for Evaluating the Workmanship of Local Fencing Contractors

Tips for Evaluating the Workmanship of Local Fencing Contractors

By Sarah Ross on

Fences are more than just boundaries. They define spaces, add aesthetic value, and provide security. When it comes to installing or replacing a fence, choosing the right contractor is crucial. A high-quality fence installation not only improves your property but also offers peace of mind. This guide will help homeowners, local business owners, and DIY enthusiasts evaluate the workmanship of local fencing contractors effectively.

Understanding the Importance of Quality Workmanship

Quality workmanship in fencing is essential for both appearance and functionality. A well-installed fence stands the test of time, requiring minimal maintenance and providing lasting beauty and security. Conversely, poor craftsmanship can lead to costly repairs and replacements. Recognizing quality workmanship ensures that your investment is worthwhile.

Knowing Your Needs and Preferences

Before engaging a contractor, it’s vital to understand your specific needs and preferences. Are you looking for privacy, security, or aesthetic appeal? Different materials and styles cater to different needs. Knowing what you want helps the contractor deliver tailored solutions that meet your expectations.

Researching Local Contractors

Begin your search by compiling a list of local fencing contractors. Look for companies with a strong presence in your area, such as this fencing contractor serving Glastonbury CT. Local contractors are familiar with regional regulations and weather conditions, ensuring compliance and durability.

Checking Credentials and Experience

Verify the credentials and experience of potential contractors. Ensure they have the necessary licenses and insurance to operate in your area. Experienced contractors with a proven track record, like Hartford Fence Company, offer expertise that translates into superior workmanship.

Reading Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Customer reviews and testimonials provide insights into a contractor’s reputation and reliability. Platforms like Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau are excellent resources. Look for patterns in feedback—consistent praise or complaints about specific aspects of their service can be telling.

Inspecting Previous Work

Ask contractors for examples of their previous work. Visiting completed projects can give you a firsthand look at their craftsmanship. Pay attention to details such as alignment, spacing, and finish quality. These details reflect the contractor’s commitment to excellence.

Evaluating Communication and Professionalism

Effective communication is key to a successful project. Evaluate how promptly and clearly potential contractors communicate. Professionalism in interactions, from initial contact to project completion, indicates a contractor’s dedication to customer satisfaction.

Asking About Materials and Techniques

Discuss the materials and techniques the contractor plans to use. High-quality materials and modern techniques contribute to a durable and visually appealing fence. Ensure the contractor is knowledgeable about the latest advancements in fencing technology.

Understanding the Warranty and Maintenance

Inquire about the warranty and maintenance offered by the contractor. A solid warranty reflects confidence in their workmanship. Additionally, understanding maintenance requirements helps you plan for the long-term care of your fence.

Getting Detailed Quotes

Request detailed quotes from multiple contractors. A comprehensive quote should outline all costs involved, including labor, materials, and any additional fees. Comparing quotes ensures you receive fair pricing and helps you avoid unexpected expenses.

Assessing Value for Money

The cheapest option isn’t always the best. Assess the overall value offered by each contractor. Consider factors such as experience, quality of materials, warranty, and customer service. The right contractor provides a balance between cost and quality.

Making the Final Decision

After thorough evaluation, make an informed decision. Choose a contractor who aligns with your needs and demonstrates a commitment to quality workmanship. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, explore other options.

Quality Fencing for Lasting Satisfaction

Evaluating a fencing contractor’s workmanship is a crucial step in ensuring a successful project. By following these tips, homeowners, local business owners, and DIY enthusiasts can make informed decisions that lead to quality fencing solutions. Remember, investing in a reputable contractor pays off with a fence that enhances your property’s value and functionality for years to come.

Rockin’ Through the ’50s: A Chat with Rebecca Hendricks on Her Hound Dogged Series

Rockin’ Through the ’50s: A Chat with Rebecca Hendricks on Her Hound Dogged Series

By June on

Rebecca Hendricks, the mastermind behind the Hound Dogged series, takes us on a rock-and-roll ride back to the 1950s—a time when jukeboxes ruled, and every teenager dreamed of making it big. In her debut novel, Hound Dogged, she introduces us to a group of friends who find themselves in the middle of the era’s wild musical revolution, facing off-stage drama as intense as their on-stage performances. With a perfect blend of humor, heart, and a whole lot of rhythm, Rebecca brings the fun and chaos of the ’50s to life. Today, we’re diving into the beats and backstories that make her series a toe-tapping hit!

Q What is your superpower?  

I don’t give up. Like everyone, I’ve had periods in my life that have knocked me down, but I always believe there’s a brighter day just around the corner.  

Q What got you into writing?  

I have been writing stories since I learned how to write. My earliest writing is a story I wrote for my father when I was six.   I’ve always had a vivid imagination and writing stories was my favorite way to express myself.  

Q If you could give your book to one person in the entire world to read, who would it be and why?  

I would like to give it to Paul McCartney because I think he would enjoy it and maybe have a laugh or two. 

Q How did you come up with your title? 

In the beginning of the book Hound Dogged, the band didn’t have a name. The character that comes up with their name is awkward and kind of goofy. I wanted to come up with something quirky like the character so off the top of my head I came up with Johnny and the Hound Dogs. I had planned on the group changing the name later on, but the name stuck and as the story progressed, I decided to keep the name. 

Q When did you decide to write this story and why? 

 I’ve been writing since I was six, and during my early teens, I spent a great deal of my free time writing a series about a rock-n-roll group.  I tried to rewrite the first book in the series later in life, but I eventually dropped the project. 

In the spring of 2021, I revisited the series and felt inspired to rewrite the first book again. Initially, I intended to do this just for myself, but my husband was insistent that he wanted to read the book.  I normally don’t share an unpolished piece of work with someone, but I relented and let him read it. 

He loved the book and pushed me to pursue getting published. I had tried to get published once before, and the experience was discouraging, so I wasn’t very excited about trying again. However, my husband was persistent in urging me to follow my dream. By the end of the year, he had convinced me, and I began looking into self-publishing. The rest is history. 

Q What has been your favorite comment/review so far about your book?  

This book beautifully depicts friendship and solidarity. I experienced feelings up and down as Stu discusses his relationship with James, peer pressure, and uncertainty. It masterfully explores loyalty and self-discovery, ending with Stu’s sorrowful revelation of his weaknesses. A captivating book for anyone who struggles with friendship and belonging, it helped me a lot. 

This review made my heart sing, affirming that the message I hoped to convey through my book had successfully reached its audience. 

Q What is something you learned while writing this book? 

I learned that the 1950s was more complex and interesting than I thought it was.  It’s about a lot more than bubblegum and sock hops. The 1950s were a period of significant cultural, social, and political change, setting the stage for the transformations of the 1960s. The decade was marked by events like the beginning of the Civil Rights Movement, the Cold War and the associated fear of nuclear conflict, the rise of consumer culture, and the early stages of the rock ‘n’ roll revolution. I found it to be fascinating.  

Q Who is your favorite character in your book?  

My favorite character in the Hound Dogged series is John Chandler. John is a free spirit who says and does what he wants. He’s not caught up in what other people think of him and he doesn’t conform to the rules. He is vibrant and confident with a quick wit. The rough exterior he shows to the world protects him from the hurt and disappointment inside.  

 Piano or Guitar? 

Guitar.. 

Coffee Mugs or Tea Cups? 

Mugs.

Cashmere or Silk?

Both.

Popcorn or Hot Dogs? 

Popcorn 

Scented Candles or Incence sticks? 

Scented Candles.

The city or the country? 

 Country.

Baking or Cooking? 

Baking.

Margarita or Cosmo? 

Cosmo

Holding a Puppy or Holding a Baby? 

Holding a Puppy. I love fur babies. 

Invisibility cloak or sparkling skin? 

invisibility cloak 

Find the series here on Amazon. Check out another book interview here.

Get to Know Lee Lindauer, author of The Salvation of Henry Maxwell

Get to Know Lee Lindauer, author of The Salvation of Henry Maxwell

By June on

In this candid interview, Lee Lindauer, author of The Salvation of Henry Maxwell, opens up about the inspiration behind his latest novel, the challenges of weaving intricate sub-plots, and the emotional depth that drives his storytelling. With a unique blend of suspense, Gothic romance, and character-driven narrative, Lindauer’s work promises to captivate readers who appreciate a story that tugs at the heartstrings while keeping them on the edge of their seats. Lindauer also shares his thoughts on what makes his book a must-read, the rituals that fuel his creativity, and even reveals his ideal casting for a potential film adaptation.

What makes your book a must-read? 

The Salvation of Henry Maxwell is a book that will move the reader as they experience the tormented life of a former horror movie star. It has a mix of emotions combined with suspense and a touch of Gothic Romance that leads to an unexpected finale. For those that love character driven novels, this is for you.

 

If you could give your book to one world leader, who would it be and why? 

Trump, maybe he’ll learn how to read and show empathy.

 

What was the hardest part of writing your book?

Trying to sequence the different sub-plots so that the timing and pacing made sense, and the tension would keep building. Rewrites and more rewrites helped in this regard.

  

What is the most enlightening/inspirational story you tell in your book? 

That love never dies. It is an emotion that is the glue that keeps us as decent human beings on a course to treating others with compassion and showing empathy in times of need.

  

One word that best describes you.

Trustworthy .

  

Any ritual like a specific scented candle, preferred writing place, or drink that you kept through writing?

Understanding that words just don’t appear out of thin air. They take time and revisions, and nothing wrong with not having a beer after choking out a few pages.

  

If there is a movie adaptation of your book, who do you think would be perfect for the lead roles? 

Robert DeNiro would make a great Henry Maxwell.

  

What can this teach to a motivated and mission-driven population of writers? 

New ideas are hard to come by. One author told me, everything has been done before. What separates a writer’s work is how they present it with a twist that only they can provide.

     

Who is your biggest writing inspiration? 

Hard to say. Dan Simmons comes to mind as being versed in so many different genres.

 Love or Money? 

  Love 

 Sky diving or Scuba diving? 

 Scuba diving

  Scented Candles or Incense?  

  Scented Candles

 Red Meat or White Meat? 

  Both

 Movie or TV Series? 

   Movie

  Long Walk or long car ride? 

  Long Walk 

  Comedy or Drama? 

  Drama 

  The city or the country? 

  Country 

 Baking or Cooking? 

  Cooking 

 Margarita or Cosmo? 

  Margarita 

Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in The Salvation of Henry Maxwell—a novel that skillfully blends suspense, emotion, and a touch of Gothic romance. Lee Lindauer has crafted a story that will not only captivate you with its intricate plot and well-drawn characters but also leave you pondering its themes of love, empathy, and redemption long after you’ve turned the final page. Pick up a copy and experience the journey for yourself—you won’t be disappointed.

Read your next book interview here.

5 Ways for Christian Families to Spend Time Together

5 Ways for Christian Families to Spend Time Together

By News Edition on

Christian families must spend time together. It is in the home that solid biblical principles will be shaped and formed. But knowing this is not enough. Christian families must know how to spend time together wisely.

 

Therefore, Christian families will benefit from a careful consideration of the following practical ideas for 5 ways that Christian families can choose to spend time together.

 

Family devotions

 

With all the distractions and time apart, it is important to come together and worship God as a family. Family devotions were a major part of an era gone by. Now, they are on the rise again.

 

Family devotions do not need to be long. It is more important that they are done consistently than that they are lengthy. A family devotion consists of Bible reading and prayer. It can also consist of singing a worship song together as a family.

 

The length of the devotion time should take into consideration the age of the children. The song choices should also take into consideration the age of the children. The devotion can start with a simple reading of a passage of Scripture, followed by questions and an explanation of the passage. Then the singing of a song or chorus could take place. Finally, each family member can pray.

 

Volunteer/service projects

 

It is also important to serve others as a family. Serving others as a family will help to develop bonds within the family and teach good habits. Jesus showed the world that He was and is a Servant. Thus, the Christian should live in the same way. The local church should be full of these opportunities.

 

Faith-based movie or show

 

The dinner table is an important setting and atmosphere. It is around the dinner table that families come together and are united once again after the many events of the day. Narroway offers dinner combined with a Christian show that could prove to be highly encouraging to a Christian family. Such an outing could also create valuable memories that young and old alike will never forget.

 

Prayer walks

 

Prayer is like spiritual air to the believer. Without prayer, the spiritual life of the Christian will suffer tremendously. But prayer is not meant to be done in isolation alone. While there are remarkable benefits to alone-time with God, prayer should also be a collective experience.

 

As a result, the Christian family may benefit from going on prayer walks. If you live near the woods, find a nice trail to walk with your family. It could be good to have ideas of topics to pray about ahead of time so that you can stay on track.

 

Seasonal celebrations and traditions

 

Celebrations and traditions can also be beneficial. So often, it is the traditions within a family that create some of the fondest memories. How much more so if these traditions are rooted in Scripture? Plan events and practices that are refreshing and aid in reminding everyone of the goodness of God and the forgiveness of Christ. Such traditions and celebrations will never be forgotten.

Mistakes To Avoid During a Personal Injury Case

Mistakes To Avoid During a Personal Injury Case

By News Edition on

Becoming injured in an accident or by deliberate action from a third party is a stressful situation. It’s equally stressful if one of your loved ones is injured or killed because of such an accident or deliberate action. In these situations, it’s tough to keep your senses straight when it comes to filing suit to protect your interests. Your lawyer will be able to tell you what to do after the initial consultation, but there are a few things that you simply must do, or not do before the case even gets started.

 

Not Getting Medical Care Right Away

Society teaches us to be proud. “Walk it off,” or, “It’s not so bad,” are common sayings. If you’ve been hurt, then seek medical attention immediately so that not only will get the help you truly need right away, but you’ll also have documentation from your doctor regarding the extent of your injuries whether they’re physical, mental, or both.

 

Not Listening to Your Doctor

Your doctor will invariably give you a list of prescriptions and/or medical advice at the end of your appointment. Take any medications as directed, and follow all medical advice. Should you not, and you exacerbate your injuries, then that could jeopardize your case.

 

Filing the Claim Immediately

Even before you call your lawyer, call the applicable insurance company, and file your claim. That way, it’s on record right away, and there will be far fewer hassles down the road than if you wait. If you’re in a shared-fault state, such as California, then be sure to ask about how it works when you talk to your lawyer.

 

Accepting a Settlement Before Contacting Your Attorney

“Hey, listen. We can keep this on the down low, can’t we? Here, let me give you X dollars (nudge, nudge, wink, wink).” This is a bad idea. No matter how much the person offers you, always protect your interests by seeking legal counsel. In fact, the fact that the other party offers you such a bribe could improve your case greatly. It’s impossible to know, so contacting your lawyer is essential.

 

Publicly Posting About Your Accident on Social Media

If you need to tell your family and friends that you’re OK, do it in private messages. No matter how many privacy settings you set on your profiles, anyone and everyone can see what you post eventually. Such public records could have a negative impact on your case, such as you saying, “Don’t worry, I’m OK,” and then the other party’s lawyer, seeing that, will undoubtedly save it for future legal proceedings. “Well, she’s OK, so why does she need compensation?” will be the first club out of the bag.

 

Conclusion

In short, before you talk to your lawyer, don’t sign anything. Don’t agree to anything. Don’t let the insurance company or other party hoodwink you. Don’t wait for medical attention, and follow all medical advice once you receive it. Protect yourself and your family because “the other guy” will be doing the same.

Why Should Employers Get Employees Aerial Lift Certified?

Why Should Employers Get Employees Aerial Lift Certified?

By Web admin on

As an employer, you’ll have the option to have your employees become certified in the tasks and responsibilities they’re going to take on. If you want to maintain a workplace that is safe, productive, and smoothly functional, certification is often well worth consideration.

One important set of responsibilities pertains to aerial lifts and scissor lifts – but what are the benefits to employers of having more employees aerial lift certified?

The Basics of Aerial Lift Certification

Aerial lift certification is a formal process that includes education, training, and testing to ensure that the candidate has all the proper knowledge necessary to operate aerial lifts, scissor lifts, cherry pickers, and similar types of equipment safely. The process takes little more than an hour and can be done entirely online. Once the certification process is complete, the employee should have everything they need in order to operate these pieces of machinery responsibly.

The Benefits of Aerial Lift Certification for Employers

Why would an employer choose to have their employees certified in this way?

  •       Safety. The first and most obvious benefit is safety for the workplace environment. Aerial lifts and similar lifting equipment are very advanced, but they still require responsible human operators to be operated safely. Employees who are familiar with the basic tenets of safety in this area are much more likely to operate the machinery safely. This means a lower risk of falls, accidents, and mishandling machinery that could lead to injury or even death. If you care about your employees or maintaining a safe workplace environment, this is the most important benefit of proactive certification.
  •       Streamlined workflows. It’s possible to teach your employees how to use aerial lifts in-house, but it’s often better to make use of an existing certification program. Guiding your employees to an online aerial lift certification service allows you to streamline this workflow, educating and training your employees much faster and more consistently.
  •       Productivity. Once properly trained, it’s likely that your employees will demonstrate increased productivity. With proper knowledge, they’ll be able to handle the machinery much more effectively, and you won’t have to worry about lack of knowledge or lack of confidence slowing things down. If you want your workplace to function more productively with less time wasted, certification is a strong proactive investment.
  •       OSHA compliance. OSHA has strict standards for aerial lifts and other pieces of heavy machinery. While it’s not necessary to go through OSHA for aerial lift certification, it’s a good idea to pursue a certification program that aligns itself with OSHA’s standards. This way, you can make sure that your organization remains compliant with government regulations.
  •       Insurance savings. Maintaining a workplace that’s free of accidents and injuries is indispensable for saving money on insurance. If you have fewer claims, and you make an effort to keep up a safe environment, you can save a lot of money this way.
  •       Employee morale and confidence. Many employees also appreciate the opportunity to become aerial lift certified – and they feel more comfortable when their colleagues have the education and training necessary to operate equipment safely. Pursuing aerial lift certification means all your employees will have greater morale and confidence.
  •       Team dynamics. Similarly, your employees will be more likely to trust each other and work together on collaborative objectives. Everyone is much more comfortable when the person operating the lift is formally trained on how to use it.
  •       Equipment preservation. Aerial lift certification can also help you preserve your equipment. Employees who use this type of heavy machinery responsibly can help it last longer and minimize the risk of damage.
  •       Liability mitigation. Employers also appreciate certification for mitigating potential liability issues. If you’re found liable for an employee’s injury or death, it could be devastating for your business. You’re much less likely to be found liable if you make every effort possible to mitigate accidents.

The Benefits of Aerial Lift Certification for Employees

Employees also benefit from aerial lift certification, and in several ways:

  •       Safety. All your employees will feel safer when aerial lift operators are properly certified.
  •       Confidence and morale. Certified employees tend to feel more confident and they benefit from higher morale.
  •       New skills and knowledge. Most employees appreciate the opportunity to develop new skills and gain new knowledge. Aerial lift certification is a fantastic opportunity here.
  •       Resume benefits. Many employees also appreciate having a new certification to list on a resume. Whether they choose to stay with your organization or change careers in the future, it’s a valuable credential they can show off.

In short, aerial lift certification offers many benefits to employers and the employees who undergo certification. It’s a relatively inexpensive, quick process that can help your organization run safer and smoother – and save you money in the process.