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Why Should You Hire a Lawyer if You Are Involved in a DWI Accident?

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It’s a serious offense if you are being arrested and charged with Driving While Intoxicated (DWI). A skilled and experienced DWI lawyer who understands the law and what is required for a DWI charge to stick is required to overcome the charges. The existing legislation prohibits the defendant from negotiating a plea deal on their behalf.

A client’s DWI accusation and other evidence were removed. A criminal defense attorney must be inventive in supporting a client in getting their DWI accusation and other evidence removed, which is generally done on technical grounds. The technicalities are difficult to establish, but if the defense attorney can prove that the proper procedures were not followed, the DWI sentence may be dropped or reduced to a lesser charge with less severe punishment. You can learn more about criminal defense attorney from cobblawfirm.com/walton-county-florida/

If charged with DUI/DWI after being involved in a motor vehicle accident, it is even more critical that you get a DWI accident lawyer in New Jersey to defend you. The offense is referred to as an ‘aggravating factor,’ resulting in increased penalties and even criminal charges if someone is hurt due to the collision.

Here’s What Happens If You Get in a DWI Accident

A DWI or DUI (driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs) is considered dangerous by politicians and law enforcement officials, not only for the driver and other passengers in the car but also for the pedestrians and other drivers. It is well recognized that a certain level of alcohol or other harmful chemicals in a driver’s bloodstream impairs their judgment and reflexes, increasing the chance of an automobile accident. Even though a DWI is a traffic infraction that can be handled in municipal court, drivers involved in an accident while driving drunk or with drugs in their system may face considerably more serious charges than a traffic violation. A DWI alone has serious ramifications, including driving limitations, license suspension, penalties, surcharges, and additional taxes and charges. In case you are involved in a DWI accident, you could be tried in court for the crime, especially if someone is seriously harmed. If found guilty, it can be extremely damaging both immediately and in the long run.

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Being Charged with DWI

The punishment for a first-time conviction for DWI with a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) between 0.08 and 0.10 is a fine ranging between $250 and $400, along with a possible 30-day prison sentence if the incident did not result in an injury. A breathalyzer measures a driver’s BAC, usually administered after an officer has stopped them for driving erratically or otherwise suspiciously. The driver has failed or performed poorly during the field sobriety test to the officer who arrested the driver. 

The driver must also pay a $1,000 insurance surcharge per year for the next three years and have an Ignition Interlock device fitted in their vehicle to be allowed to drive again legally. They must also attend two days at an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC).

DWI-related offenses carry additional fines and sentences along with the standard DWI penalties; this can include driving with a suspended license due to a DWI, refusing to go through the breathalyzer test, and driving intoxicated with a child in the car. For a second offense, penalties include fines ranging from $500 to $1,000, up to 90 days in prison, a one- to two-year license suspension, and 30 days of community service. 

The accused would also be required to use an Ignition Interlock device for two years after the license suspension is lifted, along with 48 hours in an IDRC and the payment of $1,000 in insurance surcharges for three years. For a third offense, the fine goes up to $1,000, as well as a prison sentence of up to six months, a license suspension of eight years, interlock maintenance for two to four years after the license suspension period has ended, completion of the IDRC program, and an increase in the insurance surcharge to $1,500 per year. All infractions result in an additional $425 in fees to be paid to various funds.  

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Charges Increase When Involved in a DWI Accident

If you are arrested for DWI/DUI and are involved in a major injury accident, the penalties escalate significantly. An attack by automobile is the charge filed against a driver who injures another person in an accident while driving under the influence (NJSA 2C:12-1c). 

Suppose a driver is charged with assault by an automobile. In that case, they face a third-degree offense punishable with five years sentence in prison and a fine of $15,000 if driving while under the influence or in violation of a DWI sentence or refusal legislation. A second-degree offense could be filed against the driver for driving while intoxicated through a school zone or crossing and causing injury to others. 

Prison sentences ranging from five to ten years and penalties of up to $150,000 are available for second-degree offenses. However, any time a person drives under the influence of alcohol or drugs and is engaged in an injury accident, they commit a fourth-degree offense that can result in 18 months in jail and a $10,000 fine. This encompasses all sorts of bodily injury, which means that the harm inflicted does not have to meet a “severe” injury standard to be charged with a fourth-degree offense at the very least.

How to Fight DUI Car Accident Charges

With credible evidence required to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the driver was impaired or had a BAC greater than.08 percent, casting doubt on the test results or police officers’ practices and judgment may be a successful defense. Otherwise, they must prove that the evidence against you was improperly acquired or maintained and should be suppressed or never considered when determining the charges. 

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This could prove to be a successful defense strategy. A skilled DUI attorney can cross-examine witnesses, such as police officers, to expose flaws in the prosecution’s case against the defendant. They may also demonstrate that the defendant’s motorist did not cause the accident or that the defendant’s driver was not the sole cause of the accident.

Demonstrating that an accident occurred due to a driver’s negligence or willful violation of DWI/DUI regulations and that the accident resulted in the victim’s injuries is critical to determining who is more at fault. A competent DWI defense attorney can assist you in casting doubt on the facts that are being used against you in a criminal, traffic, or civil case.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is DWI a criminal charge?

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DWI is referred to be a “quasi-criminal crime.” This essentially indicates that it shares some, but not all, of the elements of a criminal charge. This is true in the sense that depending on the seriousness of your offense, how you manage it, or how many times you’ve been arrested for the charge, you could wind yourself in jail. Regardless, you will not have a lifelong criminal record if you are convicted of DWI.

What are the charges of a DWI offense?

When charged with DWI, an accused motorist does not have the right or opportunity to have a jury trial, even though jail time must be spent on third and higher convictions, and jail time can be a component of a second or even first conviction. This is based on the Supreme Court of the United States decision, which stated that jury trials are not required when the jail sentence does not exceed six months. A third DWI conviction results in a 180-day sentence in county jail.

Can a DWI sentence be reduced?

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In the case of reduced DWI charges, prosecutors are not entitled to make plea bargains. The original charges in most DWI instances must be upheld, and you will be obliged to appear in court to defend yourself against those charges. However, this does not rule out the possibility of plea bargains for DWI convictions.

Would a DWI affect my job?

Although DWI is not considered a “criminal” offense, it is a serious issue. Because of a DWI, your company may dismiss you or take other negative steps, especially if your employer needs you to have a driver’s license.

A DWI arrest or conviction will almost certainly appear on a background check. As a result, it may have an impact on future employment opportunities.

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Can I fight my DWI/DUI case on my own?

Yes, but it isn’t a wise decision. First and foremost, DWI law is a complex field. Lawyers can obtain various certifications that allow us to contest certain aspects of DWI cases brought against you.

The Ultimate Rule to Reducing DWI Charges

Hire an experienced DWI attorney

By demonstrating mitigating elements and a defendant’s candidacy for drug and alcohol diversion rather than jail time, a skilled and well-versed criminal and DWI defense lawyer can be important in making a case for a low sentence. A knowledgeable DUI attorney can assist their client in avoiding a criminal charge entirely. A skilled DWI lawyer can ensure that a defendant’s plea in municipal court will not be used against them as an admission in a civil case for harm or damages by requesting that the court enter a civil reservation on their behalf.

 

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People & Lifestyle

German State Parliament honours Former KNUST Publishing Studies

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Dr Ralph Nyadu-Addo, a former head of the Department of Publishing Studies at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has been honoured by the German State Parliament for his significant contribution to the promotion of Ghana-German cooperation for more than two decades. (more…)

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Dj Loft and Kojo Manuel’s Cups & Bass Mix Live at Garage This Sunday,  July 7

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Get ready for an electrifying night as Dj Loft and Kojo Manuel bring their renowned Cups & Bass mix to life this Sunday, 7th July 2024, at Garage. Known for their dynamic synergy and incredible mixes, this duo has captured the hearts of many Ghanaians both locally and internationally.

The live event promises to be an unforgettable experience, filled with pulsating rhythms, crowd engagement, and an atmosphere charged with excitement.

Dj Loft, a maestro behind the decks, will be delivering his signature sound that has made him a household name. Kojo Manuel, known for his charismatic presence and hype-man skills, will ensure the crowd is energized and fully immersed in the night’s festivities.

Whether you are a long-time fan or new to the Cups & Bass phenomenon, this is a night you won’t want to miss. Join the party at Garage and witness firsthand why Dj Loft and Kojo Manuel are celebrated as some of the best in the business.

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Mark your calendars and prepare for a musical journey like no other. See you on the dance floor this Sunday!

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Paulina Mefia Denteh Becomes First Black Valedictorian with Red Diploma in Russia’s Yaroslav-the-Wise University

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Paulina Mefia Denteh, a recent graduate of general medicine from Yaroslav-the-Wise Novgorod State University, has made history by becoming the first Ghanaian, African, and female foreigner to receive the prestigious red diploma from the university.

This extraordinary achievement marks a significant milestone in the university’s history and serves as a testament to Paulina’s unwavering determination, perseverance, and dedication to excellence.

Paulina’s journey began at Methodist Senior High School in the Eastern Region of Ghana, where she demonstrated exceptional academic prowess despite the school’s limited science facilities.

Watch Dr. Paulina’s Acceptance Speech as Valedictorian & Red Diploma Certificate recipient below:
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She played a pivotal role in pioneering the school’s first robotics team and was an integral member of the inaugural National Science and Maths Quiz team, showcasing her passion for science and technology from an early age.

Her pursuit of higher education led her to Russia, where she embarked on a rigorous academic journey at Yaroslav-the-Wise Novgorod State University. Throughout her medical studies, Paulina not only excelled academically but also served as a teaching assistant from her fourth year until graduation.

Her contributions to the university community were recognized with numerous praises and citations, underscoring her commitment to academic excellence and service.

Paulina’s groundbreaking achievement as the first black foreigner and first female foreigner to receive a red diploma in the university’s history is a source of immense pride and inspiration. Her story is a powerful reminder that with determination, hard work, and resilience, barriers can be broken, and new heights can be reached.

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In addition to her academic accomplishments, Paulina is currently spearheading an innovative project aimed at addressing the issue of long queues and limited access to doctors in Ghana. Her project involves the development of an AI-backed platform that enables patients to communicate with doctors anytime and without geographical boundaries.

This revolutionary platform has the potential to transform healthcare delivery not only in Ghana but globally, by providing remote medical advice and consultations, thus reducing waiting times and improving access to healthcare services.

Paulina Mefia Denteh’s achievements reflect her dedication to improving healthcare and her commitment to making a meaningful impact in the world. As she continues to break new ground, her story will undoubtedly inspire many others to pursue their dreams and contribute to the betterment of society.

About Paulina Mefia Denteh:

Paulina Mefia Denteh is a trailblazing medical doctor and recent graduate of Yaroslav-the-Wise Novgorod State University, where she made history as the first black foreigner and female foreigner to receive the highly-coveted and prestigious Red Diploma Certificate.

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From her very humble beginnings in Ghana, Paulina’s journey of perseverance and dedication has inspired many, and she continues to contribute to the field of medicine through innovative projects aimed at improving healthcare access.
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Understanding Clay Powder for Hair Care: A Comprehensive Guide

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Clay powder has detoxifying properties that can be used to cleanse your skin and hair. Using clay powder for hair is beneficial as it removes impurities like dead skin cells, dust, excess oil, etc. from your scalp. So, you can use them for maintaining the health and hygiene of your hair and scalp. Powder clay hair care recipes like hair masks have become quite popular in recent times. In this article, we will study how to use Clay Powder for Hair. Also, we will look at the benefits of using hair powder clay DIY recipes in detail.

Understanding Different Types of Clay for Hair

Different types of clay powder are available in nature. Now, let’s understand how different types of clay powder are included in the hair care routine:

  1. Bentonite Clay: Bentonite Clay is found in volcanic ash and possesses highly absorbing and cleansing properties. It is usually used in hair detox hair masks and hair packs to remove toxins from the hair and scalp. You can also use it to cleanse your hair before using colour treatment. 
  1. Kaolin Clay: Kaolin Clay is mostly used for cleansing sensitive scalp skin. It is also known as white cosmetic clay because of its pure white colour. Due to its mild cleansing properties, it is also used to prepare hair masks for removing dandruff. 
  1. Fullers Earth Clay: Fullers Earth or Multani Mitti also removes excessive oil, dead skin cells, and dirt from the scalp. Due to its mild cleansing properties, it is often used in several hair care recipes. It is also beneficial for preventing hair loss. 
  1. Rhassoul Clay: Rhassoul Clay is a rare form of clay that needs to be mined from deep parts of the ground. It is brownish-red in colour and is known for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. So, it is normally used to soothe irritated and sensitive scalp. 
  1. French Green Clay: French Green Clay is sourced from France where it is made using green illite clay. It is antibacterial in nature and soothes the scalp due to its anti-inflammatory effects on the scalp skin. It gives a natural shine to the hair and is mostly used in scalp detox methods. 

Benefits of Using Clay Powder for Hair

Now that you have understood the different types of Natural Clay Powder For Hair Care available in nature, let’s have a detailed look at the benefits of using clay powder for hair:

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  1. Detoxification: The primary purpose of using clay powders is the detoxification of hair and scalp. Their natural cleansing properties ensure that your scalp and hair become clean. They also eliminate the foul smell from your hair by cleansing the hair follicles deeply. 
  1. Oil Control: The deep yet gentle cleansing properties of clay powders help to control oil or sebum production in your scalp. This automatically prevents further issues like dandruff and scalp infections. 
  1. Moisture Retention: Clay powders help to retain the natural moisture of  your hair. Their natural formulation ensures that your hair remains soft, smooth, and shiny even after cleansing them. So, they are a key ingredient of several commercial hair masks these days. 
  1. Volume and Thickness: Clay powders are rich in minerals and nutrients. So, they reach deep into your hair roots and strengthen them. Eventually, they help in increasing the volume and thickness of your hair strands. 
  1. Scalp Health: Using clay powders for hair is beneficial because they help in maintaining scalp health. Clay powders also enhance hair health by cleansing the scalp thoroughly. Their natural composition also soothes and nourishes your scalp. 

How to use Clay Powder for Hair

1. Clay Hair Mask

Ingredients:

Clay Powder (Bentonite, Rhassoul, etc.)- 1/2 cup

Water or apple cider vinegar- 1/2 cup

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Honey or aloe vera gel – 1 tablespoon

Directions:

Step1. Mix the clay powder with water or apple cider vinegar in a non-metal bowl. 

Step 2. Add honey or aloe vera gel if extra moisture is needed.

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Application:

Step 1. Apply the mixture to your scalp and hair, ensuring even coverage. 

Step 2. Massage gently to stimulate blood circulation and enhance absorption.

Step 3. Leave the mask on for 15-20 minutes and Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. 

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2. Clay Shampoo

Ingredients:

Clay powder – 2 tablespoons

Water – 1/2 cup

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Essential oils (optional, for fragrance and additional benefits)

Directions:

Step 1. Combine the clay powder with water to form a smooth, liquid consistency.

Step 2. Add a few drops of essential oils like lavender or tea tree for added benefits.

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Application:

Step 1. Apply the mixture to wet hair, focusing on the scalp. 

Step 2. Massage gently to cleanse.

Step 3. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water, ensuring no residue is left.

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How to Choose the Right Clay Powder?

Choosing the right Natural Clay Powder for Hair depends upon the hair issues you are facing. For instance, using bentonite clay powder for hair removes hair impurities and suits curly hair. Similarly, using Kaolin Clay powder for hair prevents dandruff and improves hair elasticity. You can use French Green Clay for hair if you are struggling with scalp itchiness. It also helps in styling hair. So, keep these things in mind before choosing the right clay powder for your hair. 

Conclusion

These were some clay powder benefits for hair. For more details, you can research the individual clay powder and their uses for skin and hair. Get them from trusted sources such as VedaOils as they offer pure and high-quality natural clay powders. Use natural clay powders in your hair care routine and detoxify your hair naturally without using chemical-based hair treatment products! 

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‹How to Select the Right Family Photographer

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Photo by Xavier Mouton Photographie on Unsplash

Family portraits are precious keepsakes that your family can treasure for generations. While a DIY photo session is a viable option, having your photos taken by a professional photographer can yield better results. Here are six essential tips to assist you in picking the perfect family photographer for your household. 

Identify Your Priorities

To make your photographer search more efficient and your family photography session a success, you must establish your desired outcomes. Do you have a family milestone to capture or an upcoming family event? Are you creating a photo album, or will these photos be displayed on your walls? Know what you want to come out of your family shoot so you can direct your efforts to find a photographer who can narrate your family story with beautiful images. 

Set a Budget

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While family photos are worthwhile investments, you don’t need to drain your family savings to secure the most expensive family photographer available. Consider your household expenses and determine a workable budget. However, you must also not base your choice solely on your budget. Even with limited finances, never choose the cheapest family photographer unless their style and work quality appeal to you.  

Exhaust all Information Sources

With several budding or seasoned family photographers on the market, choosing the right one for your family can be overwhelming. Therefore, it is vital that you conduct thorough research and take advantage of all information sources available. 

Get recommendations from trusted relatives and friends who had their family photos professionally taken. Join online groups or forums dedicated to family photography and ask for suggestions. The more information you have, the more confident you will be with your photographer options. 

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Read Client Feedback

Once you have a list of prospects, the next step is to look for client feedback. Ask your potential family photographer for customer references. You can also check their business websites or social media platforms, as they may have published feedback from previous clients. 

Read customer testimonials to gain a better perspective on how your preferred family photographer works. If you see multiple negative comments, take them as a red flag and move on to your next alternative. 

Make Contact

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Before booking your photographer, you must first initiate contact. Regardless of how established the photographer is in the industry, you must reach out to them and ask any questions you may have. If they’re unresponsive or tend to brush off your concerns, it would be best to look for another family photographer. 

Pick Someone Who Connects with Your Family

Family photography can be challenging, especially if you have children. Choose a photographer who works with everyone in your household. When all family members are comfortable and relaxed during the photo session, it will be easier for the photographer to capture natural and loving family moments. 

Endnote

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Finding the right family photographer doesn’t need to be complicated. Once you’ve signed your photographer, avoid micromanaging and let them do their job. Concentrate on your family instead, and remember to enjoy the entire experience. 

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Top 11 Benefits of Video Marketing for Your Brand

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Digital Marketing

We are in the era of YouTube, Instagram, and other social media stories that make it evident that video marketing is essential for brand marketing. Video has become an effective marketing tool that makes digital marketing more compelling and exciting for customers. 

Whether you want to advertise your product/services, boost customer engagement, or tell a story, you can make it enjoyable by compiling it into a vibrant and engaging video. Video marketing is an accessible and powerful lead that can help you stay ahead of the competition.

In this article, you’ll learn the top benefits of video marketing that can help your brand flourish. 

  1. Video Enhances Engagement With Target Audience

No matter the case, there is nothing like video to catch your audience’s attention. Users spend more time on sites that incorporate video content, for example. By embedding videos on your website and social media presence, you can command the audience and retain them, consequently growing the engagement rate. Video content is one of the effective techniques of digital marketing Houston to grab the attention of potential customers. 

  1. Bring Brand Closer To Its Customers

We’ve known for a while now that people enjoy watching videos and why video content is responsible for a higher conversion rate, yet we may not be aware of the hidden truth.

Customized video content is more likely to generate engagement through interactions. It will give your brand an advantage by developing reputation, trustworthiness, and truthfulness – essential traits for consumers who aim to connect with a business.

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Support-wise, external reviews are the mechanism of choice for most marketers. In such a way, you can draw viewers’ attention by presenting an honest brand view from the famous influencer and sharing your business through such influencers as well.

  1. Enhanced Brand Awareness

Making videos that touch the hearts of your audience is an excellent way to raise brand awareness. Videos that are either entertaining or informational in nature build and sustain your brand. They help you establish your identity and strengthen your relationships with customers.

  1. Increase Revenue

With video advertising, you can run well-targeted ads or create short product and service videos that can convert a potential customer to a paying one. 

The manner in which companies make exceptional content that people relate to earns them revenue via the enlargement of the awareness of customers and engagement.

  1. Influence Buying Decisions

Viewers use visuals as the determining factor if they will prefer certain products or services. The users are cognitively more likely to retain information presented in a video than when it was introduced in a text format. 

Videos can also have additional purposes. In particular, they can show how a product or service works before making a purchase, helping customers determine if the product or service is what they need.

  1. Takes into Their Customers’ Requirements

Businesses can realize the benefits of using video marketing as a tool to provide their customers with the content they really need. It may be tutorials or onboarding resources, corporate videos that discuss company culture, and accepting customer testimonials telling about the product’s efficiency. 

Put yourself in a customer perspective; the obvious question is how you buy different items in your ordinary daily life. You desire to study and make a careful decision before making a purchase over the phone or hitting a digital OK button.

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  1. Better Social Media Engagement

Social media is an environment full of pictures and videos, videos of the commanders. Through viral videos, you can generate interest, inspire word-of-mouth marketing, and reach people in a big way as they go through their social networks.

  1. Mobile Accessibility

In the age of smartphones and tablets, users are increasingly enjoying video content while preoccupied in transit. Developing mobile-friendly videos is an effective tool that helps your brand penetrate various segments of audiences no matter the geography, thus extending your coverage and engagement.

  1. Establishment of Authority

The provision of necessary and unbiased information and experience of your brand through video content contributes to the development of authority in that sphere. It is possible to share expertise and handle the same issues as the audience and create their confidence in them as well as your credibility.

  1. 10.Versatility and Creativity

Video marketing brings about open-ended avenues for creativity and invention. You can travel from animated explainers to live-streaming events to reach your audience in different ways, using various creative techniques to keep it exciting and entertaining.

  1. 11.Long-lasting Impact on Viewers

Video content does not decay like other forms that disappear with time but persist in viewers’ minds. Convincing videos possess the ability to be retweeted/shared, so the chance of their story rising to the top is higher. This allows them to make a long-lasting impression that remains with their viewers even after they are done watching the video.

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