#cross border injuries in canada

[sureshblogs]

Cross-Border Injury Claims in Canada: Navigating Legal Complexities for Fair Compensation

In the vast landscape of Canadian law, navigating the complexities of cross-border accidents and injuries requires a specialized approach. From out-of-province accidents to cross-border motor vehicle collisions, understanding the nuances of cross-border claims is essential for individuals seeking rightful compensation. This article delves into the intricacies of cross-border injury claims in Canada and sheds light on the process of seeking justice and compensation.

Cross-Border Accidents: Understanding the Landscape

Cross-border accidents in Canada present unique challenges, often involving multiple jurisdictions and varying legal frameworks. Whether it's a motor vehicle collision, a slip and fall incident, or a dog bite injury, victims may find themselves grappling with unfamiliar legal territory. These incidents can occur between provinces or involve international parties, further complicating matters.

The Legal Terrain: Cross-Border Claims and Compensation

When it comes to seeking compensation for cross-border injuries in Canada, understanding the legal landscape is crucial. Individuals involved in such accidents may be entitled to file cross-border accident claims, seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. However, navigating the intricate process of filing these claims requires expertise and specialized legal knowledge.

The Role of International Personal Injury Lawyers

International personal injury lawyers in Canada play a pivotal role in advocating for individuals affected by cross-border accidents. These legal professionals possess in-depth knowledge of both Canadian and international laws, allowing them to effectively represent clients across jurisdictions. From negotiating with insurance companies to litigating complex cases, these lawyers strive to secure fair compensation for their clients.

Specialized Legal Representation: Cross-Border Traffic Accident Attorneys

In cases involving cross-border traffic accidents, specialized legal representation is essential. Cross-border traffic accident attorneys in Canada possess a deep understanding of traffic laws, insurance regulations, and jurisdictional issues. Their expertise allows them to navigate the complexities of cross-border accidents and pursue maximum compensation on behalf of their clients.

Navigating Motor Vehicle Injury Claims

Motor vehicle accidents are among the most common causes of cross-border injuries in Canada. Whether it's a car accident, motorcycle collision, or trucking incident, victims may suffer severe injuries with long-lasting consequences. Motor vehicle accident claim lawyers in Canada specialize in representing individuals injured in such accidents, advocating for their rights and pursuing compensation for their injuries and losses.

Seeking Justice for Slip and Fall Injuries

Slip and fall accidents can occur anywhere, from public sidewalks to private properties, leading to serious injuries and financial burdens. In Canada, slip and fall injury claim lawyers are dedicated to assisting victims in pursuing claims against negligent property owners or municipalities. These attorneys possess the expertise to navigate the complexities of slip and fall claims and help victims obtain the compensation they deserve.

Protecting Rights in Dog Bite Cases

Dog bite injuries can result in significant physical and emotional trauma, often requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. Cross-border dog bite lawyers in Canada specialize in representing individuals bitten by dogs across provincial or international borders. They work tirelessly to hold dog owners accountable for their negligence and pursue compensation for victims' injuries and suffering.

Conclusion

Cross-border injuries in Canada encompass a wide range of incidents, from motor vehicle accidents to slip and fall injuries and dog bites. Navigating the legal complexities of cross-border claims requires specialized expertise and advocacy. By seeking assistance from experienced international personal injury lawyers and cross-border accident attorneys, victims can assert their rights and pursue rightful compensation for their injuries and losses in the Canadian legal system.

[sffgtrhyjhmnzdt]

Cross Border Road Traffic Accident Claims with Experienced Injury Attorneys

Understanding Cross Border Personal Injury Claims

In today's interconnected world, road traffic accidents frequently involve parties from different countries. When such incidents occur, the complexities of cross border injury claims come into play. These claims require specialized legal expertise due to the diverse legal systems, insurance regulations, and procedural differences across countries.

The Role of Cross Border Injury Attorneys

Cross border personal injury lawyers in the USA specialize in handling cases where the injured party and the responsible party are from different jurisdictions. These legal professionals possess the knowledge and experience necessary to navigate the intricate web of international law, ensuring that victims receive fair compensation for their injuries.

Why You Need Cross Border Injury Claim Lawyers

Expertise in International Law: Cross border injury claim lawyers are well-versed in the laws of multiple countries. They understand the nuances of different legal systems and can adeptly handle cases that span across borders.

Insurance Complications: Different countries have varying insurance policies and coverage limits. Cross border injury attorneys can help you understand and negotiate with foreign insurance companies, ensuring that you receive the maximum compensation available.

Jurisdictional Challenges: Determining which country's court has jurisdiction over a cross border injury claim can be complicated. Experienced lawyers can help establish jurisdiction and ensure that your case is heard in the appropriate legal setting.

Steps in Filing a Cross Border Road Traffic Accident Claim

Immediate Actions Post-Accident: Seek medical attention immediately, document the accident scene, and collect contact information from witnesses. Notify local authorities and obtain a police report.

Consult a cross border road accidents claim in canada: As soon as possible, consult with a lawyer who specializes in cross border injury claims. They can provide initial guidance and begin the process of gathering evidence and building your case.

Investigation and Evidence Collection: Your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation, collecting evidence such as medical records, accident reports, and witness statements.

Negotiation and Settlement: Many cross border injury claims are settled out of court. Your lawyer will negotiate with the at-fault party's insurance company to reach a fair settlement.

Litigation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will represent you in court, fighting for the compensation you deserve.

Benefits of Hiring Cross Border Injury Attorneys

Peace of Mind: Knowing that a skilled professional is handling your case allows you to focus on recovery.

Increased Compensation: Attorneys are adept at negotiating higher settlements than individuals can typically achieve on their own.

Streamlined Process: Lawyers manage all legal aspects, from paperwork to court appearances, making the process less stressful for you.

Cross border road traffic accidents in Ontario present unique challenges, but with the help of experienced cross border injury attorneys, you can navigate these complexities and secure the compensation you need to recover. Whether it's dealing with international insurance companies, understanding jurisdictional issues, or negotiating settlements, cross border injury claim lawyers are essential allies in your pursuit of justice. If you find yourself involved in a cross border accident, don't hesitate to seek the expertise of these specialized legal professionals.

[grits-galraisedinthesouth]

BREAKING: Thanksgiving Terror Attack on U.S.-Canada Border, Car Explodes.

A vehicle crossing into the United States from Canada on the Rainbow Bridge in Niagara Falls, New York has reportedly exploded. All four New York international crossing between the United States and Canada are currently closed as the incident is being investigated. Sources have told Fox News that the incident was an attempted terrorist attack and the vehicle was packed with explosives. This report has not been confirmed by law enforcement officials, however.

Both state and federal officials are said to be monitoring the situation and the FBI is on the scene. K9 units have been dispatched by law enforcement on either side of the bridge as a precaution. Media reports indicate at least one male has been taken to the hospital with injuries sustained in the blast and at least two individuals in the vehicle are dead.

[jyothsnarajan]

Understanding Legal Assistance for Dog Bite and Personal Injury Claims in Canada and the USA

Dog bite incidents can result in severe injuries and significant emotional trauma. Whether in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, or across the border in the USA, it's essential to have the right legal support to claim compensation for injuries. Experienced dog bite attorneys in British Columbia play a vital role in helping victims seek justice by ensuring they receive appropriate compensation for their injuries.

Dog Bite Injury Claims in British Columbia

Victims of dog bite injuries in British Columbia have the right to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress. Expert dog bite compensation claims in British Columbia can be pursued with the help of skilled attorneys. Specialized dog bite injury attorneys in British Columbia offer legal guidance to navigate the complexities of these claims, ensuring that victims are adequately compensated for their pain and suffering.

Dog bite injury lawyers in British Columbia work diligently to hold negligent dog owners accountable, especially when proper care and control of the animal were lacking. These attorneys focus on establishing liability, ensuring that victims are compensated for their injuries.

Personal Injury Claims in Alberta

For individuals who experience personal injury across the border in Alberta, such as vehicle accidents or other forms of negligence, seeking legal help is essential. Victims can file a personal injury lawsuit in Alberta with the assistance of Canadian personal injury lawyers in Alberta who specialize in cross-border claims. They handle everything from initial consultation to negotiation and, if necessary, court proceedings, ensuring fair compensation is achieved.

Cross-Border Accident Claims in Saskatchewan

When it comes to vehicle accidents, Saskatchewan has its fair share of legal complexities. Cross-border truck accident lawyers in Saskatchewan provide critical support to victims involved in commercial vehicle accidents that occur across provincial or international borders. These lawyers have extensive experience dealing with the legal differences between provinces and countries.

Additionally, victims of motor vehicle accidents can seek compensation through motor vehicle accident attorneys in Saskatchewan or motor vehicle accident lawyers in Saskatchewan who specialize in injury claims. These legal professionals work to secure compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain caused by such accidents.

Dog Bite Injury Claims in the USA

For those dealing with dog bite injuries in the USA, navigating the legal landscape can be challenging. Specialized dog bite personal injury attorneys in the USA provide expertise in pursuing dog bite claims in the USA. These attorneys ensure that victims receive compensation for medical treatment, rehabilitation, and other related costs.

Additionally, dog bite claim lawyers in the USA and dog bite claim attorneys in the USA help victims through every step of the legal process. Whether representing victims in negotiations or litigation, these attorneys work to ensure a fair outcome.

Many law firms in the USA, such as dog bite injury law firms in the USA, focus solely on personal injury and dog bite cases, offering top-notch legal support. Their expertise in personal injury law makes them invaluable to victims seeking justice.

In conclusion, whether you're dealing with dog bite injuries in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, or across the border in the USA, having skilled legal representation can make all the difference in securing fair compensation and justice for your injuries.

[factinhistory]

What Happened on September 13 in Canadian History?

Canadian history, like that of many nations, is filled with significant events that have shaped its identity and development over the centuries. September 13 is a day that witnessed important battles, sporting milestones, and cultural contributions. From the decisive Battle of the Plains of Abraham to the formation of rugby unions that laid the foundation for Canadian football, this date has seen pivotal moments in the nation’s past. In this article, we explore some of the key events that occurred on September 13 throughout Canadian history.

What Happened on September 13 in Canadian History?

Battle of the Plains of Abraham (1759)

On September 13, 1759, one of the most decisive battles in Canadian history took place: the Battle of the Plains of Abraham. This battle, fought between British and French forces near Quebec City, was part of the larger conflict known as the Seven Years’ War. The British, under the command of General James Wolfe, engaged French forces led by General Louis-Joseph de Montcalm. The battle lasted less than an hour but had far-reaching consequences for the future of Canada.

Both Wolfe and Montcalm were mortally wounded in the fighting, with Wolfe dying shortly after the British victory and Montcalm succumbing to his injuries the next day. The outcome of this battle marked a turning point in the war, leading to the British capture of Quebec and ultimately the end of French colonial rule in Canada. The British victory at the Plains of Abraham paved the way for the dominance of British influence in North America, which would shape the future of Canada as part of the British Empire.

Formation of the Canadian Interprovincial Rugby Football Union (1907)

On September 13, 1907, the Canadian Interprovincial Rugby Football Union (IRFU) was formed, marking a significant development in the history of Canadian football. The IRFU was created by the merging of several regional rugby teams, including the Hamilton Tigers, Toronto Argonauts, Ottawa Rough Riders, and Montreal Football Club. This union was a crucial step toward formalizing and organizing rugby football in Canada, and it laid the groundwork for what would later become the Canadian Football League (CFL).

The formation of the IRFU allowed for the development of a more structured and competitive league, with teams from different provinces competing against one another. This helped to popularize the sport and establish it as a national pastime. The IRFU’s creation marked the beginning of modern Canadian football, and many of the teams that were part of the original union, such as the Toronto Argonauts and Ottawa Rough Riders, remain iconic franchises in Canadian sports history.

Farm Aid Concert (2014)

Although not a Canadian event, the September 13, 2014, Farm Aid concert held in Raleigh, North Carolina, had notable Canadian participation and support. Farm Aid is an annual concert event organized to raise awareness and funds for family farmers in the United States and Canada. The 2014 edition featured performances by several prominent artists, including Canadian musicians Neil Young and Willie Nelson. Young, a staunch advocate for sustainable farming, has been involved in Farm Aid since its inception in 1985.

Farm Aid has long been a platform for raising awareness about the struggles faced by farmers in North America. The 2014 concert was no exception, as it highlighted issues related to corporate farming practices, climate change, and the importance of supporting local farmers. Neil Young’s involvement, alongside other Canadian artists and performers, reinforced the concert’s significance as a cross-border effort to promote agricultural sustainability and food security.

Birth of Laura Secord (1775)

September 13 marks the birth of one of Canada’s most celebrated heroines, Laura Secord, who was born in 1775 in Great Barrington, Massachusetts Bay. Secord is best known for her courageous actions during the War of 1812, when she made a perilous journey through enemy territory to warn British forces of an impending American attack. Her efforts helped secure a British victory at the Battle of Beaver Dams, and she has since become a symbol of bravery and patriotism in Canadian history.

Although Secord’s contributions were not widely recognized during her lifetime, her legacy has grown over the years, and she is now remembered as one of Canada’s most important historical figures. Her story has been commemorated in various ways, including through monuments, schools, and even a popular Canadian chocolate company that bears her name. Laura Secord’s actions on that fateful day in 1813 continue to inspire generations of Canadians.

Birth of Chris Morris (1968)

On September 13, 1968, Canadian football player Chris Morris was born in Scarborough, Ontario. Morris would go on to have a successful career in the Canadian Football League (CFL), playing as an offensive tackle for the Edmonton Eskimos (now known as the Edmonton Elks). Over the course of his career, Morris became known for his strength, agility, and leadership on the field, helping the Eskimos win multiple Grey Cup championships.

Morris’s contributions to Canadian football extend beyond his playing career, as he later transitioned into coaching. He became the head coach of the University of Alberta Golden Bears football team, where he worked to develop young talent and foster the next generation of Canadian football players. Morris’s impact on the sport has been significant, and he remains a respected figure in Canadian athletics.

Birth of José Théodore (1976)

On September 13, 1976, José Théodore, a Canadian ice hockey player, was born in Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville, Quebec. Théodore enjoyed a stellar career in the National Hockey League (NHL), playing as a goaltender for several teams, including the Montreal Canadiens, Colorado Avalanche, and Washington Capitals. Known for his quick reflexes and strong puck-handling skills, Théodore was one of the top goaltenders of his era.

In 2002, Théodore was awarded the Hart Trophy as the NHL’s most valuable player (MVP) and the Vezina Trophy as the league’s best goaltender. His performance that season was instrumental in leading the Montreal Canadiens to the playoffs, and he quickly became a fan favorite. Théodore’s career left a lasting impact on Canadian ice hockey, and he remains a celebrated figure in the sport’s history.

Birth of Angel Williams (1981)

On September 13, 1981, Angel Williams, a Canadian professional wrestler, was born in Toronto, Ontario. Williams, better known by her ring name “Angelina Love,” became a prominent figure in the world of professional wrestling, particularly in Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA). As one of the top female wrestlers in the promotion, Williams gained a reputation for her athleticism, charisma, and in-ring ability.

Angelina Love’s success in TNA helped pave the way for the rise of women’s wrestling in Canada and North America more broadly. She became a six-time TNA Knockouts Champion, establishing herself as one of the most decorated women in the company’s history. Williams’ contributions to professional wrestling have had a lasting impact on the sport, and she continues to inspire female wrestlers around the world.

Lorne Michaels Marries Susan Forristal (1981)

On September 13, 1981, legendary Canadian television producer Lorne Michaels married model Susan Forristal. Michaels, best known as the creator and executive producer of Saturday Night Live (SNL), is one of the most influential figures in American television. Born in Toronto, Michaels moved to the United States, where he revolutionized late-night television with the creation of SNL in 1975.

Michaels’ marriage to Forristal marked a personal milestone in the life of a man whose professional achievements have shaped the landscape of comedy and entertainment. Under Michaels’ guidance, SNL became a launching pad for some of the biggest names in comedy, including Eddie Murphy, Tina Fey, and Will Ferrell. His impact on television extends beyond SNL, as he has produced numerous other successful shows and films. Despite his success in the U.S., Michaels has never forgotten his Canadian roots, often referencing his upbringing in interviews.

Conclusion

September 13 is a date that holds special significance in Canadian history, from the pivotal military victory at the Battle of the Plains of Abraham to the formation of important sports unions and the birth of iconic Canadians in sports, entertainment, and more. Each of these events, whether in war, sports, or culture, reflects Canada’s diverse and rich heritage. As we reflect on these moments, we see how Canada’s history is shaped by resilience, innovation, and the contributions of its people. Through victories in battle, achievements in sport, and contributions to global entertainment, Canada’s legacy continues to be written, one day at a time.

[snowbirdaccidents]

Learn more about cross-border car accidents & how our personal injury lawyers can help you file Statutory Accident Benefits. Connect with skilled pedestrian accident attorneys in Canada and the US through Snowbird Accidents. Get legal help for your case today.

[newstfionline]

Thursday, June 13, 2024

UN says violence against children in conflict reached extreme levels in 2023 (AP) Violence against children caught in multiplying and escalating conflicts reached “extreme levels” in 2023, with an unprecedented number of killings and injuries in crises, from Israel and the Palestinian territories to Sudan, Myanmar and Ukraine, according to a new U.N. report. The annual report on Children in Armed Conflict, obtained on Tuesday by The Associated Press, reported “a shocking 21% increase in grave violations” against children under the age of 18 in an array of conflicts, also citing Congo, Burkina Faso, Somalia and Syria. For the first time, the U.N. report put Israeli forces on its blacklist of countries that violate children’s rights for the killing and maiming of children and attacking schools and hospitals. It listed Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad militants for the first time as well for killing, injuring and abducting children.

Driven to death by sextortion scam (BBC) Sextortion is the fastest-growing scam affecting teenagers globally and has been linked to at least 27 suicides in the US alone, with other victims identified in the UK, Canada and Australia. Many scammers seem to be in Nigeria, where researchers say luring people into sending explicit photos—then blackmailing them—has become “normalised”. It has been two years since Jenn Buta’s son Jordan killed himself. She still can’t bring herself to change anything about his bedroom. The 17-year-old’s basketball jerseys, clothes, posters and bedsheets are just how he left them. Jordan was contacted by sextortion scammers on Instagram. They pretended to be a pretty girl his age and flirted with him, sending sexual pictures to coax him into sharing explicit photos of himself. They then blackmailed him for hundreds of dollars to stop them sharing the pictures online to his friends. Jordan sent as much money as he could and warned the sextortionists he would kill himself if they spread the images. The criminals replied: “Good… Do that fast—or I’ll make you do it.” It was less than six hours from the time Jordan started communicating until the time he killed himself.

Mexico’s tactic to cut immigration to the US: wear out migrants (AP) “Here, again.” Yeneska García’s face crumbled as she said it, and she pressed her head into her hands. Since fleeing crisis in Venezuela in January, the 23-year-old had trekked through the Darien Gap jungle dividing Colombia and Panama, narrowly survived being kidnapped by a Mexican cartel and waited months for an asylum appointment with the United States that never came. She finally crossed the U.S.-Mexico border in May, only to have American authorities expel her. Now she was back in southern Mexico, after Mexican immigration bused her to sweltering Villahermosa and dropped her on the street. “I would rather cross the Darien Gap 10,000 times than cross Mexico,” García said, sitting in a migrant shelter. Driven by mounting pressure from the U.S. to block millions of vulnerable people headed north, but lacking the funds to deport them, Mexican authorities are employing a simple but harsh tactic: wearing migrants out until they give up. That means migrants are churning in limbo here as authorities round them up across the country and dump them in the southern Mexican cities of Villahermosa and Tapachula. Some have been punted back as many as six times.

Chiquita Held Liable for Deaths During Colombian Civil War (NYT) A jury in South Florida has ruled that Chiquita Brands is liable for eight killings carried out by a right-wing paramilitary group that the company helped finance in a fertile banana-growing region of Colombia during the country’s decades-long internal conflict. The jury on Monday ordered the multinational banana producer to pay $38.3 million to 16 family members of farmers and other civilians who were killed in separate episodes by the United Self-Defense Forces of Colombia—a right-wing paramilitary group that Chiquita bankrolled from 1997 to 2004. The company has faced hundreds of similar suits in U.S. courts filed by the families of other victims of violence by the paramilitary group in Colombia, but the verdict in Florida represents the first time Chiquita has been found culpable. The verdict in favor of the victims is a rare instance—in Colombia and elsewhere—in which a private corporation is held accountable to victims for its operation in regions with widespread violence or social unrest, legal experts said.

Germany proposes new selective military service to boost defence (Reuters) Germany's defence minister presented a proposal on Wednesday for a selective military service focused on volunteers to boost its depleted armed forces in the face of tensions with Russia, following widespread opposition to a return to conscription. Around 13 years after Germany suspended mass conscription, Defence Minister Boris Pistorus said on Wednesday all men would be obliged to fill out a questionnaire to gauge their suitability for, and interest in, military service upon turning 18. The questionnaire would be optional for women. It would then select around 10% of those for mustering before narrowing down the selection to the most suitable and motivated to undertake the six-month basic service—with an option to lengthen this by up to 17 months. This new model aims to increase to 15,000 the number of young people undertaking voluntary military service, a rise of 5,000, in the first year, the ministry said, growing that number year by year. The aim was to eventually reach 200,000 more reservists, which would enable Germany to swiftly expand its troops to around 460,000 in the event of war.

Poll: Many Ukrainians see war as stalemate but most back fight vs. Russia (Washington Post) Nearly half of Ukrainians believe the war with Russia is at a stalemate, according to a new poll, but nearly three-quarters said they were “very confident” or “somewhat confident” that Ukraine “will eventually liberate all of its territories”—a potentially unrealistic expectation but one that suggests little willingness to surrender land now occupied by Moscow’s forces. The poll, conducted by the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace (CEIP) and a Ukrainian sociological research firm, Rating, is one of the most extensive measures of public opinion in Ukraine since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, its organizers said. Some 44 percent of respondents said they believed that neither Ukraine nor Russia was winning the war, while 41 percent said that Ukraine was winning and just 5 percent that Russia was winning. In all, 73 percent of respondents were either “very confident in” or “somewhat confident” that Ukraine “will eventually liberate all of its territories,” and 59 percent said they believed the war would continue for less than one year or one to two years.

Heavy snows and drought of deadly ‘dzud’ kill more than 7 million head of livestock in Mongolia (AP) An extreme weather phenomenon known as the dzud has killed more than 7.1 million animals in Mongolia this year, more than a tenth of the country’s entire livestock holdings, endangering herders’ livelihoods and way of life. Dzuds are a combination of perennial droughts and severe, snowy winters and they are becoming harsher and more frequent because of climate change. They are most associated with Mongolia but also occur in other parts of Central Asia. Herding is central to Mongolia’s economy and culture—contributing to 80% of its agricultural production and 11% of GDP. In Mongolian, the word dzud means disaster. Dzuds occur when extremely heavy snows cause impenetrable layers of snow and ice to cover Mongolia’s vast grasslands, so the animals cannot graze and they starve to death. Drought at other times of the year means there’s not enough forage for the animals to fatten up for the winter.

Hong Kong invokes a new law to cancel passports of 6 overseas-based activists (AP) The Hong Kong government on Wednesday canceled the passports of six overseas-based activists under the new national security law, stepping up its crackdown on dissidents who moved abroad. Among them were former pro-democracy lawmaker Nathan Law, unionist Mung Siu-tat and activists Simon Cheng, Finn Lau, Johnny Fok and Tony Choi—all accused of endangering national security by authorities in the southern Chinese city. The government said they have “absconded” to the U.K. Last year, police offered rewards of 1 million Hong Kong dollars ($128,000) each for information leading to their arrests and drew sharp criticism from Western governments. According to the official statement, authorities also banned anyone from providing funds or economic resources to the six, leasing properties to them or forming any joint venture with them, among other restrictions. Doing so without authorization would carry a penalty of up to seven years in prison.

Hezbollah fires scores of rockets at northern Israel as Gaza cease-fire talks hang in the balance (AP) Lebanon’s Hezbollah fired a barrage of 170 missiles and rockets into northern Israel on Wednesday to avenge the killing of a top commander, further escalating regional tensions as the fate of an internationally-backed plan for a cease-fire in Gaza hung in the balance. Hezbollah, an Iran-backed ally of Hamas, has traded fire with Israel nearly every day since the 8-month-long Israel-Hamas war began and says it will only stop if there is a truce in Gaza. That has raised fears of an even more devastating regional conflagration. Hezbollah said it fired missiles and rockets at two military bases in retaliation for the killing of Taleb Sami Abdullah, 55. Known within Hezbollah as Hajj Abu Taleb, he is the most senior commander killed since the fighting began eight months ago. The Israeli strike destroyed a house where Abdullah and three other officials were meeting, about 10 kilometers (6 miles) from the border, late Tuesday.

Growing food in Gaza (Washington Post) Gaza’s food and agricultural system is on the brink of collapse. Airstrikes and bulldozers have razed farms and orchards across the region, according to a Post investigation comparing satellite imagery before and after the start of the war. Experts say that it could take decades to reconstruct what had already been a vulnerable but dynamic food system.

Nigeria Confronts Its Worst Economic Crisis in a Generation (NYT) Nigeria is facing its worst economic crisis in decades, with skyrocketing inflation, a national currency in free-fall and millions of people struggling to buy food. Only two years ago Africa’s biggest economy, Nigeria is projected to drop to fourth place this year. The pain is widespread. Unions strike to protest salaries of around $20 a month. People die in stampedes, desperate for free sacks of rice. Hospitals are overrun with women wracked by spasms from calcium deficiencies. The crisis is largely believed to be rooted in two major changes implemented by a president elected 15 months ago: the partial removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the currency, which together have caused major price rises. A nation of entrepreneurs, Nigeria’s more than 200 million citizens are skilled at managing in tough circumstances, without the services states usually provide. But right now, their resourcefulness is being stretched to the limit.

Nearly 70% of Gen Zers are freelancing or plan to (CNBC) Gen Zers, defined as people born between 1997 and 2012, are rethinking what it means to enter the workforce. A majority, 70% are currently freelancing or plan to in the future, according to a February 2024 Fiverr survey of 10,033 Gen Zers from around the world. Freelancing is defined as someone who works for themselves, rather than for a given company. More than half, 53%, of Gen Zers work full-time hours on freelance projects, according to a May 2024 Upwork survey of 1,070 Gen Zers. They’re also the generation most likely to work in this way. For many, diving into the world of freelancing is about gaining a sense of control.

[dertaglichedan]

Explosion came from a car 'trying to enter the US from Canada'

All four land crossings between the two countries are now closed

The FBI in Buffalo is investigating; it's unclear if there are any injuries

An attempted terror attack on Rainbow Bridge at Niagara Falls today saw a car explode, causing a massive explosion at a toll checkpoint that killed the vehicle's two occupants

[bread--quest]

>:)

so after the american revolution the border between the us and canada was never really established. sure, they set the provisions in the treaty of paris for the northeastern boundary, but that treaty was written in paris, by people who had probably never seen the territory they were dividing. so the instructions for finding the boundary between what would become maine and what would become new brunswick involved the st. croix river and "the highlands", and no one could figure out for the life of them which river the st. croix was supposed to be or what the highlands were. (there's a really funny quote i found at some point from an exasperated surveyor thats basically like "are you kidding me?? the french LOVE putting crosses on rivers to mark them!!! every goddamn river's got a croix!")

they tried several times to settle on a border but couldn't get one, and so by 1838 there was just this big chunk of land between maine and new brunswick called the disputed territory. but it hadn't really been a huge issue, UNTIL NOW.

why the disputed territory suddenly became much more disputed was kind of a combination of several factors actually. one of the big ones was that maine had just split off from massachusetts in 1820, and like many of us when we've just gone through a breakup, maine decided that now was the time to focus on ITS issues. we're doing things for OURSELVES now. massachusetts may not have cared about getting that border settled, but maine did. another issue was that britain had realized during the war of 1812 that it would be really neat to have a road through new brunswick so they could more easily defend their maritime provinces. also, those lands were rich in beautiful timber, and it had recently been discovered that (unlike a lot of maine) some of the soil in the disputed territory was actually farmable. so both mainers and new brunswickers were beginning to settle in the disputed territory, which was obviously a bit of a problem. oh, yeah, there were also the acadians, who had been violently kicked out of the canadas when the british took control of them, and so obviously didn't want to be in new brunswick's territory, but also weren't sure they wanted to be american either, so that was a whole thing.

all this led to a lot of weird situations, such as:

a town attempting to hold a meeting to vote on incorporating as a town in maine, only for new brunswickers to interrupt the town meeting and arrest the census-takers because the town was in new brunswick's territory (supposedly)

maine's land agent (who was 70 years old) going to try and survey the disputed territory and arrest the new brunswick land agent for surveying it, only to himself get arrested by the new brunswick land agent

both maine and new brunswick mustering militias and sending them down/up to the Disputed Territory, where they proceeded to do Fuck All

the "battle of caribou," wherein a group of americans and a group of french lumberjacks seemed like they might start actually shooting each other, but were helpfully distracted by a Fucking Bear attacking the canadians, thus inflicting the only injuries of the war

the "battle of houlton," wherein a bunch of people (american and canadian) were having a drinking contest in a bar and everything was going swimmingly until somebody proclaimed "victory to maine!" (in the drinking contest), which reminded everyone they were supposed to be at war, and they promptly started a bar fight and got kicked out. (this story is apocryphal and may be pure local legend, but i really like it)

so as you may have gathered. war was never officially declared, no real battles were ever fought, and no one killed anyone (some people may have died of cold and sickness while in a military capacity, but tbh that was probably gonna happen to them anyway. it was the dead of winter in maine/canada.) because of this the aroostook war is not technically a war and is often, historically, considered something of a joke, but it in conjunction with other events DID eventually lead to the actual settlement of the us-canadian border. and personally, i just think that a bunch of guys with weapons getting put in the deep woods, without any real authority closer than a day's travel, and not killing each other, is something very rare and beautiful. yippee 🎉🌲

when i first heard about taylor swift's "1830s without all the racists" line, my first thought was, naturally, "but why the 1830s?" "what even happened in the 1830s?" i foolishly asked. over the past few days a variety of sources, including my readings for class, have led me to discover that in fact many things happened in the 1830s. i therefore present, less because i actually care about anything taylor swift thinks and more because i care a LOT about making silly history jokes, An Extremely Non-Comprehensive List Of Things That Happened In The 1830s.

queen victoria takes the throne (perhaps swift intends to replace her?)

a LOT of colonialism

THE JUNE REBELLION OF 1832 !! (immortalized in les miserables)

nat turner's rebellion

CHICAGO FOUNDED !!

andrew jackson's presidency

on a better note, the first public physical attack on a us president and first attempted presidential assassination (both on jackson)

texas war of independence (taylor swift at the alamo is an amusing image to me)

invention of the telegraph

a variety of extremist religious sects, most famously mormonism

canadian rebellions

the aroostook war (ask me about the aroostook war. i dont think taylor swift would have enjoyed it)

women's outfits "featured larger sleeves than were worn in any period before or since," according to wikipedia

conclusion: i still have no idea why anyone would want to live in the 1830s, racism or not. as cool as the telegraph and chicago are the concept of bathing regularly had not come into fashion and andrew jackson was there. perhaps taylor swift has a fondness for ginormous sleeves.

[sureshblogs]

Protecting Your Rights Across Borders: Expert Legal Assistance for Cross-Border Injuries in Canada

In today's interconnected world, accidents don't always adhere to national borders. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, being injured in Canada can present unique legal challenges, especially when it involves cross-border incidents such as dog bites, car accidents, slip and falls, or motorcycle crashes. When facing such situations, it's crucial to understand your rights and seek the appropriate legal representation to navigate the complexities of cross-border injury claims.

Cross-Border Dog Bite Incidents:

When a dog bite occurs across borders in Canada, it can be confusing to determine which jurisdiction's laws apply. In such cases, having experienced cross-border dog bite lawyers or attorneys in Canada can make all the difference. These legal professionals specialize in handling compensation claims arising from cross-border dog bite injuries, ensuring that victims receive fair treatment and appropriate compensation regardless of where the incident occurred.

Navigating Car Accident Claims:

Car accidents are unfortunately common, but when they happen across borders in Canada, the legal process can become more intricate. Skilled car accident claim lawyers and attorneys in Canada are well-versed in handling cross-border car crash cases, helping victims pursue the compensation they deserve for their injuries and losses.

Cross-Border Slip and Fall Accidents:

Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere, including across borders in Canada. In such cases, seeking assistance from cross-border slip and fall injury lawyers or attorneys is essential. These legal professionals specialize in cross-border slip and fall accident claims, ensuring that victims receive proper representation and compensation for their injuries and related damages.

Expertise in Motor Vehicle Injuries:

Motor vehicle accidents, including those involving motorcycles and trucks, can result in serious injuries and complex legal proceedings, especially when they occur across borders. Canadian motor vehicle injury attorneys have the expertise to handle cross-border injury claims, providing invaluable support to individuals seeking compensation for their injuries sustained in motor vehicle accidents.

Personal Injury Across Borders:

Whether you're a Canadian resident or a foreign visitor, suffering a personal injury in Canada can be a daunting experience. Fortunately, there are experienced cross-border lawyers in Canada who specialize in personal injury lawsuits, ensuring that victims receive the legal representation they need to pursue their claims successfully.

Support for Cross-Border Traffic Accidents:

Cross-border traffic accidents can have far-reaching consequences, often requiring specialized legal assistance to navigate the complexities of international law. Cross-border traffic accident attorneys in Canada are equipped to handle such cases, advocating for the rights of victims and helping them secure the compensation they deserve for their injuries and losses.

Seeking Justice Across Borders:

Injuries don't recognize national boundaries, and neither should the pursuit of justice. Whether you're a Canadian resident, a visitor, or a foreign national injured in Canada, seeking the expertise of cross-border injury lawyers and attorneys is essential for navigating the legal landscape and securing fair compensation for your injuries and related damages.

Conclusion:

Cross-border injury claims in Canada require specialized legal knowledge and expertise to navigate effectively. By seeking assistance from experienced cross-border injury lawyers and attorneys, victims can ensure that their rights are protected and that they receive the compensation they deserve for their injuries and losses, regardless of where the incident occurred.

[strawberrysunsets]

The Empty World (Ch. 5)

Donald Pierce x Reader

Status: Ongoing

Summary: Pierce and the Reavers are sent to capture a mutant with mysterious abilities. This chapter: Life with the other mutants provides a respite, before military forces arrive hunting for Laura.

Warnings: Violence, gore, injury, guns, knives, swearing.

Angst, slow burn, enemies to lovers, smut later on!:D

Author's Note: This chapter takes place during the events of Logan. I stayed pretty accurate to the scenes I took from the movie, but obviously Reader has been inserted into them!

P.S. I swear I swear the Reader/Pierce relationship is coming I'm just taking my sweet time getting there 😬

P. P. S. I've started school again, so I have less time to write, but will still try to release chapters regularly:)

Comments/reblogs/feedback mean the world to me!:)

Chapter 5: Allegiance

“Hand me that wrench?” You asked.

You were balancing precariously atop a step ladder, trying to work a rusted bolt from a socket in the factory wall. The plan was to attach the canvas covers which protected the space from the sun to a pulley-system, so that they could be retracted easily at night. It was one of the many small feats of engineering you'd created since joining Logan, Caliban, and Charles in the desert South of the border.

Caliban sat below you, repotting some plants on one of the factory’s wide counters. He handed the wrench up to you, then sat back down with a sigh.

“Some days I don’t know why Logan brought me here at all,” he grumbled. “I couldn't think of a worse place for a sun-averse mutant, save for, say, a boat on the ocean.”

You finally got the bolt loose, and pulled it from its socket, freeing up the space for the pulley.

“He can’t be serious about that,” you replied. “And if he is – well, we’ll find you a safe house before they set sail. Have you ever thought about going North? There are places in Canada where daylight lasts only a few hours, in the Winter.”

“I've gone North. The trouble is, I hate the cold,” Caliban replied.

You couldn’t help but laugh. But as you reached up to screw the pulley in place, a small static shock raced through your arm. You swore, dropping the screw to the ground below.

“Are you alright?” Caliban asked.

You clambered down the step ladder, and reached the ground.

“Shit,” you said, shaking out your hand. There was a vague buzzing sensation in your fingertips, and your skin felt slightly hotter than usual. You'd been trying to ignore it, but the sensation had been building all morning.

“Flare?” Caliban asked, eyeing you.

You nodded, and sighed, wiping your hands on your mechanic’s apron before grabbing a jug of water from the counter to take with you into the bunker.

“Remember what we talked about,” Caliban said, as you turned towards the doors leading to the factory’s rear. “3—4—5. Repeat the breathing exercise, and try to clear your mind. And remember – you’re safe!” He called.

“Roger that,” you replied, as you exited.

Caliban had been helping you for months, now. Since just after you’d arrived to the old factory. Helping you to slowly change the way you thought about your mutation – so that it wasn’t a curse, or something to hate, or fear – but something that you could make peace with, and even befriend. Something that, given time, you could learn to use, instead of having it use you.

It hadn’t been easy.

The gut-deep panic you’d grown accustomed to feeling was slow to dissipate, and the layers of pain it had caused you uncomfortable to peel away.

But you’d made progress.

You hadn’t been pulled back to the empty world since New York. And in the past few weeks, you’d even begun to feel like maybe – just maybe – if you reached out to the Ether, you might be able to harness its power.

You shut the heavy metal door of the bunker, and sighed as you crossed to lay on the cot in the  corner. The room had originally been used for some part of the factory’s processing, but now its lead-lined walls helped shield the energy of your flares from the sensors of anyone who happened to be watching for them.

Like Transigen.

Inhale for a count of three, you thought, resting your head back on the rough canvas and closing your eyes.

Hold for a count of four.

Exhale for a count of five.

You immediately started to feel calmer, the breathing exercise Caliban had taught you quickly working its magic. You felt the flare begin to fade. And now drowsiness weighted your eyelids, brought on by the coolness of the dark room, and the late night you and Caliban had had tending to Charles. He’d been having one of his episodes. Not a seizure; just pain. The mental anguish of not knowing where he was or who he was with, and being trapped within memories that were slowly decaying around him.  

You didn’t know when you fell asleep, but you woke to raised voices from somewhere outside the factory, and the slam of a car door.

Logan must be back.

***

You arrived outside into the bright sunlight, and shielded your eyes. You were feeling better, now – the flare having faded in the hazy hours you’d dozed off.  

To your surprise, Charles was already out in the yard, sitting in his wheelchair next to Logan, and a young girl with dark hair.

“What’s happening?” You asked, approaching them.

The girl immediately turned towards you, her eyes hard and suspicious.

“This is Laura,” Charles said, beckoning your forwards excitedly. “She’s a young mutant! She’s the one I’ve been communicating with.”

You gaped, staring from Charles to the girl.

 “Come in, Laura; you can come in!” He beckoned her towards the factory.

“Communicating, my ass,” Logan mumbled, turning to you. “We need to start packing. We’ve gotta leave.”

“What?” You exclaimed. “Why? Where’s Caliban?”

“Driving out to the wash,” Logan replied, following Charles and Laura inside. “Some guy came around. Ex-military. They’re looking for her.”

You stood for a moment, stunned, then jogged to follow Logan into the factory.

“Ex-military? Do you know who sent him?” You demanded, mind working furiously.  

Logan grunted. “Bad fucking news, that’s who. And they’ll be sending backup.”  

***

Logan moved around the room, shoving items into bags as you sat at the table with Charles and Laura. The girl had wolfed down two enormous bowls of corn flakes, and was now starting on a third as you watched in fascination.  

Charles was attempting to talk to her in broken Spanish, and you turned back to Logan, unsatisfied with the answers he’d provided you with so far.

“If she’s Gabriela’s daughter, then why are they looking for her?” You asked. “It doesn’t make sense. Just because she’s the first mutant born in 25 years?”

“Don’t know, don’t care,” Logan snapped back. “What matters is that they’re coming here – and they’re gonna find all of us in the process.” He scowled at Laura and Charles.

The girl – who couldn’t be more than ten, by your guess – scowled back at him, matching him glare for glare.

The walls of the factory rattled, as if another train were passing on the tracks beyond the dirt road.

“Just – un otro tren. Un choo-choo,” Charles said, trying to reassure Laura as she bolted upright. But Logan swore, striding to the window.

“It’s not a fucking choo-choo,” he replied.

He grabbed the bag he’d packed, and threw it into Charles’ lap before hurriedly wheeling the old man towards the door.

“Let’s go,” he grunted, as he passed you. “Now.”

You stared from his retreating back to Laura, still seated at the table.

“Logan – what about Laura?” You demanded.

“We’re leaving! She’s not our problem,” Logan replied over his shoulder. Charles protested as he was wheeled outside.

“We can’t just leave her!” You shouted after them.

“Come with us, or stay with her,” Logan replied, as he disappeared around the corner. “Your choice.”

You stared after him, aghast.

The sound of approaching vehicles was growing louder every second. They must have nearly reached the factory’s gate.  

Laura’s face had hardened throughout the exchange, making you think that she understood more English than she let on. But still, she sat stubbornly at the table, refusing to move.  

“Laura – come on,” you said, rounding the table towards her. “Ignore him. You came come with us – we’ll get you away from the people who are trying to find you.”

She glanced up at you, eyes wary. It seemed for a moment as if she was going to rise and follow you – but then the sound of cars arrived in the yard outside, followed by the sound of slamming doors and cocking weapons.

“Shit!” You swore, running to the window.

Through the grimy glass, you made out Logan’s silhouette, where he stood beside the limousine. He was surrounded by armed men. It looked like Charles was already in the back of the limousine. A moment passed, and words were exchanged – before Logan unsheathed his claws, and the knot of people descended into chaos. The scuffle was short and brutal, and Logan disappeared from view.

You stepped back from the window, breathing hard. “Laura, we have to get out of here. I have my motorcycle in the back – we can take that.”

If the transmition isn’t acting up, you thought. If only you’d finished repairing it sooner.

But the girl didn’t move from the table, simply taking another measured bite of her corn flakes. You followed her gaze. She was watching the security feed of the front entrance. A line of burly men were walking up to the door. At the same time, you heard as the door to the compound was wrenched open.

Laura didn’t move from the table.

You dodged behind a wall, hiding in the shadows of a broken metal boiler. The least you could do was surprise them, when they entered.

The situation was quickly devolving from bad to worse, and you knew there’d be no getting out without a fight. All you had was the hunting knife you carried on your belt, but it would have to be enough. You didn’t know what Laura’s mutation was, but you hoped it would be something helpful. 

You listened, as heavy footfalls approached Laura. Then they stopped before her, and there was a metallic noise as something was held up.

“You gonna come with us, Laura?” The soldier asked.  

You tensed, preparing to leap out and tackle him to the ground – but before you could, there were a flurry of blows, and the man screamed in pain. You looked around the corner. Laura was on him. Literally, on him – spinning around so that she was on his back, her fists hitting him repeatedly in the back of the neck.

No – not her fists.

The claws protruding from them.

You stared at the scene unfolding before you, stunned. Laura leapt upon the next soldier, severing the tendons in his leg with a swift blow.

She was like Logan. Her mutation – it was the exact same. Before you had time to contemplate this revelation further, you’d leapt out from behind the wall, and were assailing the next soldier who ran to join the fight. You dealt a few quick punches, then clipped him in the temple with a high kick, sending him to the floor.

When you turned, Laura was already gone – a trail of dead or maimed soldiers left in her wake. You pelted for the door, and burst out into the blinding sunlight, running in the direction she’d gone.

“No. Laura – ” A familiar voice was calling, in a placating tone. “No!”

You arrived in the factory yard just in time to see Laura leap on a soldier with a wordless cry. Her claws sliced through the muscle of his shoulder, before severing his arm clean off. Then the other soldiers were on her, and she was leaping and dodging between them, slicing savagely through flesh and bone.

You were astounded, but you ran to join the fight, intent on protecting her. Not that she seemed to need it.

Across the yard, you spotted Logan struggling up, battling the men around him.  

All at once, something clicked in your mind. You’d thought some of the soldiers inside the factory had looked familiar – their clothing and gear a specific mix of military and mercenary attire at odds with the uniformed law enforcement with them. But now, you realized why. Those are not just soldiers. They’re Reavers!

At the same moment, you recognized a familiar blond head across the yard. He was shouting orders to his men, and shoving them in Laura’s direction to join the fight.

This couldn’t be happening.

You fell upon the nearest Reaver, clobbering him hard over the head with the butt of your knife, before grabbing him in a headlock and choking him. He struggled, gagging, just as another Reaver ran at you. You threw the one you were holding into a fence, and spun to meet the next. You weren’t quick enough to dodge his punch, though, and it caught you on the jaw, throwing you to the ground. You rolled quickly away, and managed to tangle your legs with his, felling him. Then you leapt on him and grabbed his head, ramming it against a metal fencepost. He went limp.

You rose, panting, from the dirt, to see that the yard around you was in chaos.

And between the fighting bodies, through the haze of dust, you caught sight of him once more. Just as your gaze landed on him, he happened to turn to look in your direction.

Your gazes met.

The shock in Pierce’s eyes was mirrored in your own, but his expression quickly morphed from surprise into feral delight. He smiled, and waggled his fingers in a cheeky wave.

Logan had escaped the knot of soldiers surrounding him, and you watched as he threw himself into the limousine, and gunned its engine to life.  

“Laura –” you shouted, taking on another Reaver as he ran at you.

Laura decapitated the nearest soldier, then swung around, eyes finding you.

“The car!” You shouted, pointing, as you ducked the Reaver’s punch. “Go!”

Laura’s eyes locked onto the limousine, and she ran for it, diving between soldiers on the way.

At the same moment, three different weapons were levelled with your head.

“No te muevas!” A soldier yelled. “Don’t move!”

You froze, staring down the barrels of the semi-automatic rifles. For Laura, the bullets had been a mere deterrent – but you wouldn’t be so lucky. You dropped your knife, grimacing, and slowly raised your hands.

Across the yard, you saw Laura leap to land on the limousine’s hood, claws digging into the metal. The car jerked to a stop. Logan’s eyes scanned the yard, and found where you stood, cornered by the soldiers. He looked stricken.

But you were trapped. And they had a way out.

“Go!” You screamed at him.

A blinding pain tore through your shoulder, and you were thrown backwards onto the ground.

They shot me.

You lay in the dirt, gasping for breath, as you heard the limousine tear from the yard.

Two of the soldiers who’d surrounded you remained with you, rifles cocked and aimed downwards, but the others ran to join the trucks peeling out after the limousine. You couldn’t see where Pierce was, but you assumed he’d joined the chase.

Let them escape, you thought, desperately. You panted as you lay in the dirt, the pain in your shoulder excruciating. Just let them escape.

And let me not have been shot anywhere too important.

***

It was nearly half an hour before the trucks returned to the yard. From the bleeping of radios and the lack of any audible struggle, you assumed that Logan and the others had well and truly gotten away. Your mouth curved into a grim smile.

“Get her up,” a familiar voice called, as a car door slammed and boots made their way towards you.

The two soldiers around you grabbed you beneath the arms and dragged you to a standing position, jostling your injured shoulder. It was all you could do to keep from crying out. Your hands were cuffed behind you, and one of them had tied a rag tightly around your shoulder to stem the bleeding. The bullet had passed straight through, apparently.

My lucky day.

You slowly raised your head, and glared as Pierce came to a halt before you.

“Well, look who it is,” he said, smiling. “That was a damn surprise, finding you here.”

He was as you remembered. His skin lightly tanned from the sun, his honey-blond hair tousled above his tinted sunglasses. Tall, charming, and infuriatingly smug.

“I should have known, of course,” he continued, approaching and putting a finger beneath your chin, tilting your head upwards. “All the most wanted muteys, cozying up together? Must have been like a real little family, huh?”   

You jerked your chin from his hand. “What would you know about that?” You spat back, struggling against the soldiers holding you for a moment, before the pain in your shoulder grew to be too much. “Doesn’t seem like you have much work-life balance.”

Pierce gave you a knowing look, then smiled obligingly.

“Seems to me like you're the one without a family, sweetheart. The Wolverine and the others left you here, after all.”

You grimaced, and looked away.  

“So why stay loyal to ‘em?” Pierce continued, walking a few paces away to gaze towards the road. “Must not care about you all that much.”

“Why stay loyal to them, when I could be loyal to you, you mean?” You asked. “For beating and kidnapping me? Tough choice.”

Pierce laughed, and turned back to you. “You know, I almost missed this," he sighed. "Glad to have you back, darlin’.”

You glared at him, as he turned to address the soldiers. “Put her in with the tracker."

The tracker. They’d captured Caliban, too?

You swore internally, as the soldiers pulled you away towards the factory.

“Ah, I almost forgot – ” Pierce called after you. “If any animal so much as looks at one of my men in a way they don’t like, we’ll be leaving Caliban out to watch the sunset.” 

Your body flushed with cold as they pulled you away, at odds with the hot desert day around you.

Bad, to worse, a small voice echoed in your mind. This shit just went from bad, to worse.

***

Taglist:

@humongousgalaxycoffee @drowningnikki @mischiefmanaged71 @lostcause514 @capvengrs @forever-nerd @pancakesandlolliepops

[jyothsnarajan]

Best Cross Border Accident Claim Lawyers in USA and Canada

Navigating Motor Vehicle Accident Claims in the USA

Motor vehicle accidents in the USA can lead to significant legal complexities, especially when they involve severe injuries or cross-border incidents. Whether you're dealing with a car accident, truck collision, or motorcycle accident, understanding the claims process and hiring experienced legal professionals can ensure you receive fair compensation.

Motor Vehicle Accident Attorneys in the USA

In the aftermath of an accident, working with motor vehicle accident attorneys in the USA is critical. These legal experts specialize in handling accident cases and guide victims through the process of filing a claim. From gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies, motor vehicle accident lawyers in the USA ensure that your rights are protected and that you get the compensation you deserve.

Motor Vehicle Injury Claims in the USA

Injuries resulting from car, truck, or motorcycle accidents can be life-altering. Motor vehicle injury lawyers in the USA work to secure compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering. Whether it's soft tissue injuries or catastrophic injuries, motor vehicle injury attorneys in the USA have the expertise to handle all types of injury claims. Filing a motor vehicle injury claim in the USA can be a complex process, but with the right legal guidance, you can increase your chances of success.

Car Accident Claims in the USA

For those involved in car accidents, understanding the claims process is crucial. Car accident claims in the USA typically involve dealing with insurance companies, establishing fault, and proving damages. Victims are often entitled to compensation for property damage, medical bills, and lost wages. If the accident results in significant injuries, filing car accident injury claims in the USA becomes necessary to cover the financial and emotional impact of the accident. Experienced motor vehicle accident claim lawyers in the USA can guide victims through this process, ensuring all relevant documentation and evidence are properly presented.

Cross Border Truck Accidents

Cross-border accidents can involve even more complications due to differing laws and regulations between countries. Cross border truck accident lawyers in the USA specialize in handling such cases, especially when accidents occur between the USA and neighboring countries like Canada or Mexico. These attorneys navigate the complexities of cross-border liability, insurance, and jurisdiction, ensuring that victims receive compensation regardless of where the accident occurred.

Motorcycle Accident Claims in the USA

Motorcycle accidents tend to result in more severe injuries due to the lack of protection for riders. Filing motorcycle accident claims in the USA often involves dealing with issues like liability, insurance limitations, and proving negligence. Hiring motor vehicle accident compensation lawyers in the USA can help you recover damages for medical bills, ongoing treatment, and lost wages due to the severity of the injuries.

The Role of Motor Vehicle Accident Compensation Lawyers

Whether it’s a car, truck, or motorcycle accident, securing compensation requires legal expertise. Motor vehicle accident compensation lawyers in the USA specialize in obtaining fair settlements for victims. These lawyers negotiate with insurance companies, present evidence of injuries and damages, and represent victims in court if necessary.

Conclusion

Accidents involving motor vehicles can have long-lasting physical, emotional, and financial impacts. Whether it's a simple fender-bender or a complex cross-border truck accident, having the right legal representation is crucial. Motor vehicle accident attorneys in the USA, including those specializing in cross-border cases, motorcycle accidents, and truck accidents, ensure that victims can focus on recovery while their legal matters are handled professionally. By filing a motor vehicle injury claim in the USA, victims can secure compensation for their losses and move forward after a traumatic experience.

[beardedmrbean]

OTTAWA, Ontario – Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and other liberal Canadian leaders have slammed the trucking "Freedom Convoy" as spreading "hateful rhetoric" and expressing "violence toward fellow citizens." But protesters on the ground say that’s not the case at all.

"I have not seen one negative flag here. No Nazi flags or anything like that," one woman protesting in Ottawa, who has been in the capital since Friday, told Fox News Digital.

"The truckers and supporters here have made an effort to say that we will call out any violence or hatred that we're seeing, and we'll report it to the police," the woman continued. "So we're all on the same page here. We don't want to see any violence. They didn't drive all this way to promote any violence or hate. They've come here to make a very peaceful statement that we would like to stop mandates and we're supporting free choice."

TRUDEAU TWEET SURFACES FROM EARLY 2020, SHOWS RADICAL FLIP IN ATTITUDE TOWARD TRUCKERS

Trudeau accused the truckers and protesters of spreading "hateful rhetoric" this week and said they are "an insult to memory and truth." Media headlines have also focused on "swastikas and public urination" and protesters carrying swastika and Confederate flags and defacing statues.

CANADIAN GROUPS COORDINATING DELIVERY OF FUEL, FOOD AND RESOURCES TO TRUCKERS PROTESTING VACCINE MANDATE

To protesters on the streets, however, their message is love and peace.

"We don't see any racists. We don't know what race is. All we know is love, the language of love," one man told Fox News Digital.

Another protester said he did see one man with a swastika flag, but said a cameraman followed that man instead of focusing on the "joy and love that other citizens are showing us."

One protester said that a couple statues were defaced with swastikas, but that the people who committed the vandalism "have nothing to do with the convoy or the freedom of the people."

TRUDEAU SLAMS 'FREEDOM CONVOY' FOR 'HATEFUL REHTORIC,' PREFERS TO SUPPORT BLM PROTESTERS

The Freedom Convoy of truckers left Vancouver for Ottawa on Jan. 23 to protest the federal government’s vaccine mandates for cross-border truckers and is calling for an end to coronavirus restrictions. The convoy reached Ottawa this weekend and police estimated between 5,000 to 18,000 people were on the streets Saturday. The number is estimated to have come down to the hundreds of protesters as of Wednesday.

MUSK MOCKS TRUDEAU, SAYS 'FREEDOM' TRUCKERS PROTEST PROVES 'SMALL FRINGE MINORITY' IS THE GOVERNMENT

"I've not seen a single act of violence. I haven't seen any racism. It's been absolutely the most classy and peaceful protest I've ever seen," another protester said.

Police in Ottawa did say this week they are investigating some possible criminal charges regarding people allegedly urinating on a war memorial, displaying a sign reading "Mandate Freedom" on the statue of Canadian athlete Terry Fox. Two people were also arrested in connection to "mischief to property" and carrying a weapon to a public meeting.

Police set up a hate crime hotline this week, but admitted that the protests have remained peaceful. There have been no riots, injuries or deaths since the protests kicked off over the weekend.

CANADA 'FREEDOM CONVOY': OTTAWA POLICE SET UP HATE CRIME HOTLINE DESPITE ADMITTING PROTESTS REMAIN PEACEFUL

Disturbances have instead come in the form of honking horns, gridlocked traffic and chanting from protesters and some fireworks.

"We just had a citizen of Ottawa come up to our truck in tears, thanking us. And he has never seen this town, this city, as clean as it is now because we the people are picking up after people that have no respect for the city," another protester told Fox News.

_____________

[allegedlyanandroid]

Hello! For the fic prompts! Can I got a 900Gavin A/B/O fic about alpha!RK900 who try to bite Omega!Gavin scent glands when they first meet because RK900 didn't have a social program but have only a primal instinct program? Could pls keep it fluff and light,plssss? 🥺 I read too many dark fics but if it couldn't then it ok too.

I took some artistic liberties with this one and made Gavin a bounty hunter for the sole purpose that I couldn’t figure out a good reason as to why Fowler would assign them as partners if Nines tried to take a bite out of him on first meeting.  I mean... who can blame him though? Gavin is a snacc. Did I think to much into it? Yes, definitely. Either way, I hope you like it @therainnight, fingers crossed that it has an okay ratio of fluff in it <3

There’s nothing to suggest he’s being followed, no out-of-the-ordinary sounds, no footsteps, no nothing. Doesn’t matter. Gavin has always had good instincts and right now they’re telling him that something, or someone, is stalking him. Glancing as far behind himself as he can through his peripheral vision means he catches the glimpse of movement before it’s too late. Gavin whirls around just as he’s pushed backwards against a tree and the impact is enough to knock the breath from his lungs.  

A forearm keeps him pressed against it while he stares uncomprehending at razor-sharp teeth set in a half-finished face.

‘Oh, hell no,’ is what comes to mind and it’s through pure instinctive reaction that he manages to get a hand up between them and shove it as far into the android’s mouth as he can ‒ quick enough to keep it from sinking its teeth into the glands in his neck. He’d rather lose a few fingers than be bond-mated on first meeting like some omega bride in the twentieth century. His other hand is still free so he ignores the glowing eyes peering into his soul, and the curious gnawing over the digits he unceremoniously shoved in the android’s mouth, in order to find the glowing circle in the middle of its chest. Digging his fingers into the minute crack the thirium pump regulator slides into his hand with a muted hiss, strangely warm and disgustingly slick with thirium.  

The android yelps, scrambling backwards, and releases Gavin’s saliva-slick hand as it falls down in a crouch. It stares desperately at the cylinder held aloft in the air. It jolts forward when Gavin squeezes it between claw-tipped fingers until it threatens to bend under the strain and render it useless, eyes are wide and sorrowful, the glow in them sapping away with every passing second. Gavin nearly feels bad for it.

“Why are you following me?!” he demands to know, pushing the thought aside.

It doesn’t answer, shifting in place as it continues to stare at him.

“You can have this back if you tell me.” Half-truths. The android merely curls in on itself, pressing the palm of its hand against its own throat. It mouths something but the dark plating making up the lower part of his face makes it impossible to see what. Then it clicks. “You can’t talk?”  

It nods.

Maybe it shouldn’t have come as a surprise when the droid looks anything but finished. Gavin can see parts of its biocomponents pulsing a subdued red behind clear panelling mixed in with sleek metal in a colour so dark it’s nearly void. The upper part of its face has synthskin, including his upper lip, but everything below is made of the same black material. Its ears nearly blend into the raven hair on its head and Gavin can’t find it in himself to be angry at it. Clearly, it’s a lost ‒ and potentially broken ‒ thing. Not unlike himself.

Gavin tosses the regulator in the android’s direction and marches on. He has a job to do after all and tracking only gets harder the longer he dawdles. Almost immediately the feeling returns and he groans out loud. The time-limit forces him to keep moving regardless of his silent companion. His target already has a two-day head start and the moment Weiss crosses the border into Canada Gavin can’t do jack-shit to him. He jerks the rifle higher on his back and continues to follow the scent of old blood laid into the earth. Evidently the bastard isn’t worried about being followed so much as setting a fast pace despite his injuries. 

When night begins to fall, the shadows lengthening around him, Gavin reluctantly sets up camp. There’s maybe another two days before he catches up and seeing as they’re about a three day’s march from the border he’ll be cutting it close.  

The area he finds is partly protected from the elements and close to a stream of trickling water. “I know you’re there,” he calls while rummaging around his supplies to find kindling. There’s a rustle of the underbrush to his left and the hulking mess of an android appears at the edge of camp. It looks hesitant, almost skittish, where it stands. It makes little sense given how bulky the ‘droid is and how aggressive it behaved earlier. Clearly it should be able to hold its own going off design alone. Gavin returns to ignoring it after a last wary glance and swears beneath his breath when the wood won’t catch flame.

The android shifts into his line of sight and approaches slowly, like one would a vicious or scared animal. It stops again and gestures to the attempted fire, tilting its head in question. Gavin sighs. “Sure, why not,” he shrugs. “‘s not like you can do a worse job.” 

Despite the less-than-friendly tone, the android visibly perks up. Gavin watches as it rearranges the collected wood with meticulous focus before stripping one of its fingers of plating and snapping off a few wires. The resulting electric sparks is what it uses to light the kindling. The fire slowly spreads over bark and wood until they’re engulfed by flames, cracking and popping in the still evening. Satisfied, it prods at the still-sparking wires with a finger, completely transfixed by the reds, oranges and yellows found in the flickering fire. 

Gavin offers a crooked grin in thanks. “Wonders of technology. You need any help with that?”

The android shakes its head no, poking the wires back in place, before clicking the plating back where it belongs. It looks to be smiling slightly as it reluctantly gathers itself up to leave.

Gavin stops it with a hand on its wrist.  

“You can stay.”

It’s basic human decency Gavin tells himself when he watches the android shuffle closer to the flames, hands outstretched as if to absorb its warmth. With the light’s help he can just about make out the serial-number etched into its chassis right over its thirium pump. “RK900, “ Gavin reads, “-that’s not one I’ve heard of before.” The droid turns to him and holds up one finger, turning it afterwards to point at himself. Gavin hums. “One of a kind then. I can relate to that.”

The android slides closer, looking up with a soft “go-on” like gesture that Gavin is helpless to resist.

-

He wakes up the next morning feeling as if everything has tilted slightly to the left and groggily gets himself ready for the day, rolling up his sleeping bag and kicking dirt over the fire’s embers, while RK stares at him with intrigue. They begin the trek not long after with Gavin wolfing down a protein bar in lieu of breakfast. RK frowns at him then, his brows furrowed severely, but it quickly turns to confusion when Gavin sticks his tongue out at him and picks up the pace. While they walk, he contemplates when in the previous evening he began referring to RK as “he” instead of “it”. There’s no doubt that the android is alive, for lack of a better term, animated and interested and latching onto every word of Gavin’s tales the way he used to do himself when he was younger and less jaded.

Gavin, lost in thought, doesn’t notice RK disappearing for a moment. His return is difficult to miss though since he presents him with a perfectly symmetrical trientalis europaea, its yellow core surrounded by seven white petals. A stark contrast to the black hands cupping it; delicate fragility resting in palms simply not made for such sweet blossoms. There’s excitement radiating off him, nestled in his glowing eyes, which doubles when Gavin asks: “Is that for me?”

The nod is quick as RK moves his hands an inch closer. Gavin takes it with a soft “thank you.” He looks at it for a moment longer and then takes his notebook from his inner pocket to place the flower there, snapping it shut and tying it with twine to really press flat. RK preens, turning his gaze bashfully to the forest floor, while Gavin pretends his cheeks aren’t flushed red.

-

When at last it comes time to make camp Gavin is pleased with their progress. “The scent of blood is more prominent. Even if he’s on scent blockers I can pick up smoke from the campfire. We’re getting close.”

His statement prompts an explanation about the reason he’s in the woods to begin with. The concern he shows upon hearing of Gavin’s chosen field of work is quickly dismissed with a: “I managed to bring you down, didn’t I?” which RK’s lips twitch at. He settles even closer to Gavin today, surreptitiously scenting the air between them, until Gavin asks him about it point-blank.

‘You smell nice,’ RK writes out on a torn-out page in Gavin’s book. ‘It’s what drew me in.’

“I smell like fuck-all while on blockers.”  

‘Leather, coffee, something sweet like honey.’ It takes a moment before RK writes the next part: ‘You’re an omega.’

Gavin is still reeling when the last part of the sentence hits him like a punch to the gut. He takes his blockers near religiously, there’s no way RK should be able to‒  

...but then the air around him floods with hints of metal and ozone. He’d smelled it before, when RK first came at him, but it had been absent since.  

An alpha.

As soon as the scent envelops him it lessens again. ‘It’s hard to concentrate, to control myself, unless I turn that part of my programming off. Although, it means I have to get in close to smell anything.’

Gavin doesn’t know what to say to that, to any of it, so he remains quiet even if he doesn’t move away to allow RK to take in his scent as he pleases.

-

The weather dips dangerously in the late night and Gavin wakes up shivering. “Fuck, dammit,” he curses. Maybe he should keep moving. Catch the fucker earlier and finally get away from here. ‘Terrible plan,’ Gavin reminds himself as another shiver wracks through his body. Weiss is an alpha and as much as Gavin loathes to admit it, they are stronger than him. His strength is his speed and precision, dancing out of people’s range until they tire, or using his omega status as a lure. The last one wouldn’t help him here and the former only works if he’s well-rested and alert.

RK is just now stoking the fire. It helps, a bit, but Gavin is still feeling numb; fingers and toes hurting when he attempts to stretch them out.  

“Hey, RK. C’mere a second.”

The android obeys without question, crouching down next to where Gavin has struggled into a sitting position. He places his hands against RK’s bare chassis to test his theory. There’s a low thrumming vibration beneath his fingertips and the metal is surprisingly warm to the touch. RK moves to clasp Gavin’s hands between his own and slowly rubs over them, keeping them covered while his chassis suddenly generates more heat.  

Once they’re an appropriate temperature again RK moves to sit behind him. Gavin watches him, a question etched clearly into his eyes, but RK merely lays down, waiting and watching. Glacially slowly Gavin joins him on the ground and the android smiles shyly before turning his back on him. Gavin mirrors him once more, shuffling until they lie back to back, and both the warmth from the fire and RK enveloping him is a comfort he didn’t know he needed.

-

The morning after is filled with glances out of the corner of his eye, with the urge to hold RK’s stupid hand, and he wonders when he became so starved of touch, of someone showing the slightest bit of kindness to him, that two days are enough to want to pull RK down by his hair and kiss him senseless.  

-

They catch up to Weiss a short few hours later and Gavin presses the rifle into RK’s hands as a safety precaution before throwing himself into the fight. It’s quick and dirty with Gavin using every trick in the book to gain the upper hand while dancing around the wildly thrown punches. Grinning through the rush of adrenaline Gavin eventually stops toying with the man and brings him down with a few precise kicks and punches. He locks handcuffs around Weiss’ wrists, arms behind his back, while Weiss shouts abuse and obscenities at him. Gavin pays it no mind, explaining with a sick sense of satisfaction that the cuffs aren’t coming off without a DNA signature from his friend and that running would mean a slow death for him left out in the elements. “Truth be told, I don’t care whether or not you’re still breathing when I bring in proof of your capture. I can afford to lose the difference in compensation.”

Weiss falls limp at that while Gavin slowly rises to his feet. When he looks up, remembering they’re not alone, RK is standing still as a statue. He stalks over, bearing a striking resemblance to a predator approaching prey, and presses right up into Gavin’s personal space to shove his nose into his neck and inhale. A rumbling noise is caught in his throat, a growl that has Gavin’s knees weakening slightly, as sharp teeth graze over his throat. Ozone and metal. Wicked claws not present before gripping his jaw tightly.

He reaches up to stick his thumb in RK’s mouth, pressing it down on his tongue with narrowed eyes. RK pricks it with his fangs and laps at the drop of blood with his tongue, all the while keeping eye contact. It makes Gavin squirm, just a little bit, and he’s thankful the heat suppressors keep him from getting wet or the walk back would be uncomfortable to say the least. With a graze of his teeth, RK loosens his hold and puts distance between them again, eyes dark and wanting.

-

Weiss tries to run about two thirds of the way back and Gavin sighs as he readies his reclaimed rifle. Turns out he never has to use it. RK’s head snaps up and he tracks the man’s erratic patterns for a second before giving chase. He’s practically a blur of movement and Gavin watches, transfixed, as he takes Weiss down in one graceful leap. The lack of being able to catch himself smacks Weiss’ head hard against the ground. RK doesn’t seem to care about the man’s dazed state as he drags him back to Gavin, his claws buried deep into the sides of his neck, hand cupping the back of it. He tosses him at Gavin’s feet and offers a razor-sharp grin, nudging the guy with the tip of his foot.  

Gavin gives him a light kiss on the cheek for his help and can almost imagine the tail wagging behind him with excitement at the gesture of affection.

-

What doesn’t fit the crumbling infrastructure in the slums or the dingy office he rents for cheap is the well-kept lady in smart business attire standing next to him behind the desk.  

Maurice Gacy, the guy they usually make business with, is a weasel of a man. His thin greasy hair and slimy smile fits his role of lowlife criminal perfectly. His side hustle of collecting bounties for the Guild is the only reason Gavin interacts with him, puts up with his leering and comments. Trust only extends so far between them but... all in all he gives the money owed and he keeps his mouth shut when talking to the cops which is all that really matters in the end.

RK tenses behind him, something Gavin senses in the clicking of his machinery, and Gavin frowns at the broad smile beginning to stretch over her face. “You found it,” she says lightly, walking in a measured pace while Gacy warily trails behind, heels clicking across the linoleum.

Gavin takes a step forward to meet her and bares his teeth in a snarl. “Back off.”

She nods sagely, uncaring for his hostility and lengthening canines. “Yes, of course. Money first. Always the same with you lot, isn’t it?” The node she produces from her fitted jacket flares to life and he stares, heart stuttering in his chest, at the very familiar face displayed.

WANTED  

RK900, MODEL NUMBER #313 248 317 - 87

REWARD: 1.000.000 $

HIGHLY VOLATILE AND EXTREMELY DANGEROUS

PREFERABLE IF IT REMAINS OPERABLE UPON COLLECTION

Metal and ozone laced with a bitter tinge resembling fear.  

A flower stuck between yellowing pages.  

Viscous saliva and thirium dripping from his hands.

Whatever RK’s crime can Gavin truly bear to have more of his blood on them when it’s sure to stain them always? The thought is on the forefront of his mind when RK walks up to stand by his side, resignation already home in eyes and slowly sapping them of light, and in that moment, Gavin has his answer.

His arm shoots out to block RK from moving further and slowly raises his chin in defiance. “No.”

“Excuse me?”

They’re all staring at him, RK with a mix of wonder and trepidation, so Gavin sets his jaw and forces calm into his voice. “You can fuck right off with that shit, he’s not the reason we’re here.” With a nod to Tina, she steps forward and shoves Weiss at Gacy. Thankfully he’s too much of a coward to pick a fight and transfers the agreed upon money to her before whisking Weiss away towards the back. Tina raises an eyebrow at him, bumping their shoulder together lightly as she walks out the door, and Gavin has never been as thankful to have her as he is right now when the unmistakable sound of an engine rumbling to life filters in from outside. “Come on, we’re done here.”

It’ll start a shitstorm, that’s for damn sure, but with RK leaning forward to peer out the front window as they tear through the streets, Gavin can’t find it in himself to care.  

[icedbatik]

NHL expects 98% of players to be vaccinated before season, deputy commissioner Bill Daly says

12:22 PM CT September 16, 2021

(AP) Deputy commissioner Bill Daly said Thursday the NHL expects 98% of players to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by the start of the season.

The league projects that only between 10 to 15 of roughly 700 players will not be vaccinated by the time the season begins Oct. 12. The league and NHL Players' Association did not impose a vaccine mandate on players, but restrictions -- including the potential of not being able to cross the border from the U.S. into Canada without a lengthy quarantine -- contributed to the number.

"We weren't really trying to convince each other one way or the other," Los Angeles defenseman Drew Doughty said. "But then I think when the NHL released that statement that you lose pay and stuff like that, that kind of changed some guys' minds."

Teams will be able to suspend unvaccinated players without pay if they cannot participate in hockey activities as part of the protocols, which could include games in Canada since Daly confirmed there is no exception in this case for the country's quarantine rule. Fully vaccinated players will have any COVID-19 positives treated as hockey injuries and still be paid.

Unvaccinated players also will have their movements restricted when on the road. And there will still be regular coronavirus testing for vaccinated players.

"I think that's been an incentive and a motivator for most players to to become fully vaccinated, even if they had concerns about it," Daly told The Associated Press at the league's annual player media tour. "But it was intended to be that."

Three teams -- Calgary, Toronto and Carolina -- have confirmed all their players are vaccinated, and Philadelphia expects to be at 100% soon.

Coaches and staff must be vaccinated as a condition of employment. Columbus recently replaced assistant coach Sylvain Lefebvre because he declined to be vaccinated.

[pcttrailsidereader]

Dangers of Hiking the PCT Loom as the 2021 Season Approaches

This is an excerpt of a story from the San Francisco Chronicle that appeared in the February 21st issue.  I do find that there are increasing numbers of hikers populating the PCT whose backpacking and wilderness experience is very thin while the dangers remain the same (perhaps even greater with the addition of forest fire).

By Gregory Thomas

As the spring hiking season approaches, veterans of California’s trail community are urging long-distance backpackers to take extra precautions to avoid catastrophe. Looming over the season is the unceasing threat of the coronavirus as well as a tragic snow-related death last year on the Pacific Crest Trail.

Trail authorities are chiefly concerned that inexperienced hikers, seduced by the prospect of a life-changing adventure on the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) and the natural beauty of the John Muir Trail (JMT), may be venturing unprepared into dangerous situations in the remote wilderness.

Whereas older generations of outdoors enthusiasts likely built their skills and experience under the guidance of seasoned mentors, younger hikers seem prone to digging for trail expertise in internet blogs and social media. Hundreds of thousands of through-hikers coalesce around hubs on Facebook to discuss strategy and gear. But the vibe of comment threads can turn macho or hostile, and the information exchanged isn’t always sound.

“A lot of the voices (in online trail groups) are great, but some have been historically dismissive of safety,” said Jack Haskel, trail information manager at the Pacific Crest Trail Association, which issues long-distance permits to PCT hikers on behalf of the U.S. Forest Service. “Something we’ve been talking about as a long-distance hiking community for years now is, how do we build a community of alumni who stick around and offer their insights to new generations of hikers?”

Through-hiking the 2,660-mile PCT, which spans mountain ranges between Mexico and Canada, is a six-month commitment to self-sufficiency in the woods. The highly popular JMT, which extends from Yosemite Valley 217 miles south to Mount Whitney, overlaps with hazardous sections of the PCT in the High Sierra.

“This is not a beginner experience, but a lot of people hike the JMT as their first through-hike,” said Inga Aksamit, of Sonoma, who administers several JMT groups on Facebook. She says JMT permits, which become available online each morning for spring and summer hiking dates, are getting snapped up within a minute or two. “That’s really concerning to me,” she said.

The two trails, once the byways of fringe dirtbaggers, now draw tens of thousands of nature lovers to California’s mountains each year. Many aspire to follow in the footsteps of Cheryl Strayed, whose 2012 hiking memoir, “Wild,” became a best-seller and popular film, or re-create the spectacular nature photos of their favorite Instagram influencers.

Last year, the onset of the coronavirus pandemic prompted the Forest Service to stop issuing long-distance PCT permits partway through the season. But many hikers proceeded anyway, sparking vitriolic debate and shaming in the online groups where hikers congregate. This year, permits are back on — the trail association anticipates a return to pre-pandemic levels of about 7,900 permits even as international hikers are expected to stay home.

The potential for hikers to carry the virus into the 30-some-odd remote mountain towns strung along the PCT users is a theme of many social media discussions this year.

“It’s not just the risk in the wilderness this year,” Haskel said. “We’re worried about our trail communities.”

No one keeps precise statistics on trail deaths, injuries and rescues, but there have been at least 15 fatalities on the PCT since the early 1980s. The top causes are drownings at river-crossings and falls. In 2019, a 67-year-old man hiking alone died on the trail near Mather Pass after apparently slipping on a small patch of ice and hitting his head on a rock.

June is regarded as the most treacherous month to be on the trails. That’s typically the peak of seasonal snowmelt in the High Sierra, when summer’s heat flushes torrents of water through alpine streambeds that hikers must ford. Two female through-hikers drowned in Sierra river crossings in July 2017 following a winter of unusually high snowfall.

With so much new interest in long-distance treks, administrators like Aksamit feel more compelled to issue words of warning.

“I sound the alarm on posts that we get on June entries to caution solo hikers against tackling stream crossings on their own,” Aksamit said. “People think we’re fear-mongers sometimes, but a lot of people just don’t know what they’re getting into.”

An unlikely mentor has emerged this year. Doug Laher, a medical association executive from Fort Worth, Texas, has never set foot on the PCT or JMT. But last year, 11 days into his PCT adventure, Laher’s 22-year-old son, Trevor, slipped on an icy slope in the San Jacinto Mountains, near Palm Springs, and fell to his death.

The tragedy rippled through the trail community, in part because Trevor was a strong young man who appeared to be prepared for the hazards of high-mountain hiking. But also because Doug Laher has since accumulated a deep knowledge of trail dangers and spoken about his son’s death in painful detail on the culture’s niche podcasts and online forums.

“Most days I drift, merely existing in a world when everyone else is living,” Laher wrote. “But this helps: the idea that Trevor’s death didn’t happen in vain. There must be something good that rises from our tragedy.”

Trevor’s fateful trek appears to be sinking in as a cautionary tale. Doug Laher says he has received hundreds, if not thousands, of emails and Facebook comments from grateful hikers.

One came from Claire Stam, 24, of Jackson, Wyo., who hiked most of the PCT last year.

Trevor Laher’s death occurred two months before Stam’s hike began, and she had read an early account of the episode. After five months on the trail, Stam and her partner had put the bulk of the trek behind them when they encountered deep snow in Washington’s Cascade Range, 30 miles shy of the trail’s end at the Canadian border. While standing in a blizzard and considering whether to push on, Trevor’s story flashed into her mind. She and her partner decided to call off their hike and go home.

“I was so devastated,” Stam said. “Part of me thought I could do it if I really focused. But then I thought, Trevor probably thought the same thing. I knew that if he had a second chance, he would have made the decision that I made.”

Doug Laher’s message to through-hikers is straightforward: Do your research, carry appropriate gear and know how to use it, read the trail conditions and be prepared to abandon your hike. But to hikers who have in many cases dreamed about the PCT for years and rearranged their lives for the trek, turning away from a rushing river or snowy ridge can feel like chickening out.

“Sometimes through-hikers don’t know where to distinguish the line between discomfort and danger,” Stam said.

Still, Doug Laher intends to continue reaching out to hikers. “I’ve found my new purpose in life,” he said. “If I can influence a hiker’s decisions to be more safe, that’s a win.”