Bigger & Harman APC - April 2021

Bigger & Harman APC - April 2021

BIGGER

THE DAILY DRIVER Attorneys Defending Your Right to the Road

Toll-Free (661) 859-1177 Se Habla Español www.bakersfieldtraffictickets.com HARMAN CALIFORNIA TRAFFIC DEFENSE ATTORNEYS , APC

APRIL 2021

The Isolation of COVID-19 and Truckers

IT’S NOT IMPOSSIBLE TO FIGHT

One way or another, most people have had a hard time during this pandemic. Although it was only a year ago that the pandemic began here, it’s felt as though it has been much longer than 12–13 months. For many people, this was the first time they ever felt truly alone. Those of us who were used to seeing people and interacting with them every day suddenly found ourselves with very little contact with family, friends, or acquaintances. In my line of work, I interact with people constantly, whether that’s with Paul, our other members, or our clients. At least, pre-pandemic. But when away from work for a few days, I missed meeting friends for a meal or coffee. While I continue to experience this, I can’t help but think about our truckers. At the beginning of the pandemic, many people became aware of something we’ve always known at Bigger & Harman: Truck drivers are vital to our country. Many businesses would have closed during the pandemic if it hadn’t been for truck drivers’ efforts and their cargo. The products and food they transported all across the country kept us moving forward. However, truck drivers regularly experience the type of isolation we have been feeling. Being on the road for hours, even days at a time, is extremely lonely. Though we are seeing COVID-19 restrictions lift slowly, truck drivers will continue working as they always have. As a firm that works with individuals who drive for a living, we are very aware that loneliness is not so easily lifted. With Easter this month, these feelings can be stronger for those who are away from home. If isolation starts getting to you, there are a few ways to help reduce that feeling.

First, stay connected with people. This is hard to do, especially these days when we must socially distance and refrain from gathering in big groups. Yet, we can still communicate with our loved ones and coworkers despite barriers and regulations. Make plans to meet other truck drivers on route or your friends, if you are at home. You can also set up a time to call or check in with the family while out on the road. By messaging or texting, calling and leaving voicemails, or using FaceTime, you can connect and feel less alone. We understand that being alone in the cabin also leads to feeling isolated. If you are allowed, consider bringing someone with you, either a family member or a pet. They can help keep you company over the long hours on the road. Social media can also help reduce that on-the-road loneliness. When you have a chance, take pictures of the scenic views, vast horizons, or something that interests you and post it online for your family, friends, and followers to enjoy. Most importantly, lean on your faith. It’s easy to distract ourselves with entertainment on TV or social media, but remember that there is an all- powerful God who cares about you. This is the real message of Easter, and He sent His Son so we will not always be lonely. This month, we are all reflecting on what has happened since spring of 2020. Despite the hard times, we must ask ourselves what we can do to make 2021 a better year. If our team can be part of making that happen, we are ready to serve you in the best ways possible.

–Mark Bigger

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This is no joke: The 2021 Major League Baseball (MLB) season will begin on April 1. While you may wonder whether the Los Angeles Dodgers can repeat as champs or if the Tampa Bay Rays can exact their revenge, don’t count these four teams out just yet. 4 TEAMS TO WATCH THIS BASEBALL SEASON Don’t Count Them Out

MINNESOTA TWINS You don’t make it to the playoffs with the best record in all of baseball and not make it into some kind of list. The Twins are going to be a fun team to watch because they have a chip on their shoulders. While the team managed to score 269 runs in just 60 games, they also lost their record- breaking 18th straight playoff game in 2020. If they can get consistent pitching, both starters and relievers, they will be in the hunt at the end of September. DETROIT TIGERS There is a benefit to repeatedly being near the bottom of the league: You get good

draft picks. The Tigers are on the cusp of finding that special blend of offense and defense in the coming season thanks to some much-needed depth by up-and- coming pitchers and first-round draft picks — so much so that Jonathan Mayo of MLB.com has them as the top team that missed the playoffs in 2020 who could make a solid run. ST. LOUIS CARDINALS The award for best offseason ought to go to the Cardinals, who, all winter long, appear to have outwitted their Milwaukee and Chicago rivals — the Brewers and Cubs were the top two teams in the National

League Central last year — by acquiring third baseman Nolan Arenado and re‑signing Adam Wainwright and Yadier Molina. The Cardinals are favored to win the Central if those off-season moves pay off. SAN DIEGO PADRES After acquiring Manny Machado in a big trade in 2019, the Padres have continued to improve, especially against difficult opponents. The Padres were a tough team last year, defeating the Cardinals in the wild card round and losing to the eventual World Series champions, the Los Angeles Dodgers. Expect them to be near the top of the standings in September.

‘Minor Infraction Forgiveness’: Don’t Be Lured In THE TRUE PROCESS OF REDUCING A TRAFFIC TICKET

Commercial drivers can take traffic school if ticketed in their private vehicle, but they do not get the full benefits a regular Class C driver would get. While the DMV point here in California would not be counted against them, the violation would still be visible to their insurance, employer, and the feds. So, consult an attorney before taking a deal to see what your odds of getting a better outcome would be. But if are going to be found guilty, with no chance of changing the underlying charge to a non-point, it would be better to take the traffic school. To take a TVS course, you must pay the county for permission (usually $60–$75) in addition to the school’s tuition. You must also complete the course before the court- ordered deadline. If you accidentally miss the course or don’t complete it on time, you forfeit the money you spent. Additionally, your insurance provider will likely take away your “good driver discount,” placing you, instead, in a higher risk category, which could also result in a higher premium. The average California driver pays $500–$600 more per year for one minor infraction because they accepted TVS and didn’t complete it on time instead of disputing their traffic ticket. This won’t only cost your wallet but

also, potentially, your driving career. Because we know that for professional drivers, a car insurance increase is the least of their concerns. A common issue we see at the firm is many drivers believe

it is ultimately cheaper to pay the minor infraction fine and continue on with their lives. This is true — if all the driver had to pay for was the fine itself. However, one minor infraction on your record could lead to a $600 premium increase and one added NOTS point. For truckers, it could be the difference between employment and job searching. Don’t be fooled by “minor infraction forgiveness,” and don’t pay for anything until you talk to a traffic attorney. Set up an appointment at Bigger & Harman, ACP to learn your options regarding your traffic ticket and fines.

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Traffic Attorneys Are Best Suited for Traffic Court

INTERNATIONAL JUSTICE MISSION Thanks to your referrals, we were able to give $1,080 to fight human trafficking. To learn more about International Justice Mission, please go to IJM.org. MISSION: To protect the poor from violence by rescuing victims, bringing the criminals to justice, restoring survivors to safety and strength, and helping local law enforcement build a safe future that lasts. Our long-term vision is to rescue millions, protect half a billion, and make justice for the poor unstoppable.

So, you’ve been given a ticket for a violation. What is your next step?

Usually, when someone has to appear in court for a traffic ticket, they don’t think they need legal representation. However, having an experienced attorney on your side can give you the edge you need to win your case. To make things even better for yourself, you need a traffic attorney. The average person has little to no traffic court experience. Representing yourself can lead to accidentally incriminating yourself, and a lack of understanding of the court process could mean you won’t represent yourself well. Traffic court is unlike any other courtroom. You could wait hours for your name to be called and then have only 2–5 minutes to present your case. If you need a witness or a supporting document as evidence, you must have both with you and ready as you step into court. You will not be given any additional time to collect what you need. Other attorneys may have courtroom experience, but a traffic attorney sits through hundreds of these cases in traffic court, which has helped them understand the courtroom process and how each judge rules. This gives traffic attorneys the advantage they need to win your case. A traffic attorney may also know the law enforcement officer (LEO) who issued the ticket, whether they are in the court on the day of trial, or to ask for a dismissal if they are not. If the LEO is in court and your case is weak, a traffic attorney can sometimes work out a deal to a lesser charge that carries no points. You might need to pay the fine, but your insurance will not increase, which could save you $1,500 or more. If you are given a traffic violation, seek help from an experienced traffic attorney, like those at Bigger & Harman. We have the skills and experience your case needs. Call us today to schedule a consultation.

I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

PHILIPPIANS 4:12-13

(661) 859-1177 | 3

, APC HARMAN CALIFORNIA TRAFFIC DEFENSE ATTORNEYS BIGGER

Toll-Free (661) 859-1177 Se Habla Español www.bakersfieldtraffictickets.com

PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411

1701 Westwind Drive Suite 203 Bakersfield, CA 93301

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

How Can You Combat Loneliness?............... PAGE 1

4 MLB Teams Poised for a Great Season..... PAGE 2

‘Minor Infraction Forgiveness’: Don’t Be Lured In............................................. PAGE 2

Why Just Any Lawyer Won’t Do................... PAGE 3

The Bet That Spawned the Filet-O-Fish Sandwich..................................... PAGE 4

Have a ticket in California? Give us a call, and we’ll help you out! Regardless of the location, we can point you in the right direction free of charge!

INSIDE THE MCDONALD’S HISTORY BOOKS The Bet That Spawned the Filet-O-Fish Sandwich

Every day, 68 million people dine under the iconic golden arches of McDonald’s. If you’re one of them, then you’re probably intimately familiar with one of the most famous offerings on the menu after the McRib and the Big Mac: the Filet-O-Fish Sandwich. This bestselling entree looks simple enough. It features a fried square of wild-caught fish nestled under a slice of American cheese and a smear of tartar sauce. But it has a contentious history. In fact, Ray Kroc, the owner of McDonald’s who was immortalized in the 2016 movie “The Founder,” didn’t want the fishy offering on the menu. It ended up there anyway for one of the oldest reasons in the world: Kroc lost a bet. The story starts back in 1962 in Cincinnati, Ohio. That year, an enterprising McDonald’s franchisee named Lou Groen had a problem. His customer base was largely Catholic and abstained from eating meat on Fridays (not to mention during Lent!), and they weren’t buying enough burgers to keep his restaurant afloat. According to the Smithsonian Magazine, on Fridays, Groen pulled in just $75 per day. To combat that lack of sales, he masterminded a beef-free option, and the Filet-O-Fish Sandwich was born.

The problem came when Groen pitched the entree to Ray Kroc. The founder didn’t approve. In a 2006 interview with Business Courier, Groen recalled Kroc’s reaction: “You’re always coming up

here with a bunch of crap!” he said. “I don’t want my stores stunk up with the smell of fish.” But at the end of the day, Kroc’s motivation was profit. So, the two men made a bet. On Good Friday in 1962, select McDonald’s would put both the Filet-O-Fish and a different meatless option, the pineapple-centric Hula Burger, on their menus. The entree that sold the best would stick around. Since you’ve probably dined on a Filet-O-Fish and never heard of Hula Burger, you can guess what happened. Groen sold 350 Filet- O-Fish sandwiches. And Kroc? Well, he moved just six Hula Burgers. Fishy smell or not, the filet was there to stay. Want to read up on more fast-food capers? Pick up the book “Drive- Thru Dreams: A Journey Through the Heart of America’s Fast-Food Kingdom” by Adam Chandler. His KFC stories will blow your mind.

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