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Makenzie Moncrief

someone riding a onewheel skateboard on a college campus

Onewheel Skateboard College Campus Accidents

By Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Public Entity, Skate & Skateboarding Accident, Slip or Trip and Fall

For college students, navigating campus often requires creative transportation. One popular option is onewheel skateboards and electric unicycles. These self-balancing skateboards can be fun and convenient, but accidents happen and can leave riders or bystanders injured.

The Rise of Onewheel Skateboards on Campus

Depending on the model, onewheel skateboard can reach speeds between 16 and 25mph. They have a single, large tire at the center, and riders use their balance and body movements to control the board through pressure-sensitive pads. Features like battery life, lighting, and customization of your ride profile is all controlled by a smartphone app. Given the speed and unique control of these devices, it is very important that riders are confident before using a onewheel skateboard before bringing it onto a busy college campus.

Campus Hazards and Liability

There can be many hidden dangers when riding through a college campus that can harm you or loved ones when using onewheels. Some of these can include:

If the campus fails to maintain safe walkways, it could be liable for injuries under premise liability law. In some cases, the college campus may be responsible for maintaining safe conditions and could be liable for injuries.

Student Liability

Even if you do not own a onewheel, many of your classmates might. These students can be careless riders, disregard signage. They even can ignore signs of faulty breaks, drive aggressively in a crowd, and preform reckless stunts. If you are involved in a onewheel skateboard accident with another student, it is important to exchange contact information and document the incident, like a bicycle or scooter accident. If they are still learning how to use these devices safely, there are great risks of accidents.

How Fielding Law Can Help

Whether your accident was caused by poor campus maintenance or the negligent riding of a student, Fielding Law is here to support you every step of the way. We are committed to helping you heal physically and emotionally, because we know first-hand how life-altering these types of onewheel skateboard college campus accidents can be. Reach out whenever you are ready at 833.88 SHARK for your free consultation today.

Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.

Students looking at test tubes in a laboratory

What to Do After a Laboratory Injury Happens

By Personal Injury, Premises Liability, Public Entity

Science labs should be a place of discovery—not danger. Unfortunately, when safety is ignored, these environments can lead to serious harm. This is why high school labs require strict supervision, thorough training, and clear protocols. When these standards are overlooked, the results can be devastating.  

Real Stories, Real Injuries

These real-world examples underscore how quickly a simple chemistry lesson can intensify into a medical emergency. That is why proper equipment, genuine supervision, and safety training are essential, not optional. 

Marietta, Georgia – December 2023

Two high school girls suffered chemical burns during a routine lab experiment involving sulfuric acid and magnesium. They were rushed to the hospital with visible injuries. (USA Today)

Malvern, Iowa (WOWT) – October 2023

An explosion during a science experiment in an Iowa classroom sent two students to the hospital with burn injuries. (First Alert 6)

Berlin, CT (WFSB) – November 2024

A science experiment conducted at Berlin High School went awry, causing a gas leak serious enough to send a teacher and a student to the hospital. (Eyewitness News) 

What Questions Should Parents Be Asking?

Parents should stay informed about the safety protocols in their child’s high school science laboratory. Doing so helps hold schools accountable and reinforces the importance of protective measures for students.

  • Do students receive formal lab safety training at the beginning of the year? 
  • What qualifications or training do teachers have to supervise lab experiments?
  • How are students supervised during experiments? 
  • Are instructors providing goggles, lab coats, and gloves? 
  • What is the school’s emergency response plan in the event of a lab accident? 

Your Laboratory Injury Attorney 

At Fielding Law, your child’s safety matters to us. We know how helpless it can feel when your child is hurt in a place that is supposed to protect them. If your child sustained a laboratory injury at school, you do not have to face the aftermath alone. Our team is here to help you understand your rights and explore your options. Call us at 833.88.SHARK for your free consultation today.  

Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.

Tailgate bbq grill

Injured at Tailgate Party?

By Burn Injury, Car Accident, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Premises Liability, Slip or Trip and Fall

The Fall season brings a sense of renewal and tradition as many head back to school. It is a time with familiar celebrations like the excitement of tailgate parties before college football games. With all the fun, it is important to stay mindful of your safety and understand who might be responsible if someone gets hurt. As grills, games, and gatherings increase, so does the risk of slip and falls, vehicle accidents, and alcohol related injuries.  

What is a Dram Shop? 

  • A dram shop is a business that sells alcohol and may be legally responsible if they serve someone who poses dangers to others after drinking. 

What are Social Host Laws? 

  • These laws hold the person hosting the tailgate responsible if they knowingly provide alcohol to underage guests or know about underage drinking on site. 

Common Misunderstandings of Tailgate Party Injury 

If you or a loved one is injured due to someone’s irresponsible drinking, many people assume the intoxicated individual is solely responsible. However, others — such as the bar, restaurant, or party host who served them — could also be legally responsible. You may be able to pursue a claim not just against the drunk individual, but also against the business or host who served them.  

Documenting the Scene 

After a tailgate party injury—as with all accidents— documenting the scene is essential. The details you write down shortly after the accident can make a significant difference in building a strong case. Here are a few things to document: 

  • Date and time of the incident  
  • Location of the tailgate  
  • The specific type of accident that occurred  
  • Description of all the non-visible injuries  
  • Photos of the visible injuries  
  • Who was involved, and if there were any witnesses  
  • The company or the name of the individual who was giving out the alcohol  

Why Hire Fielding Law 

Party, tailgating accidents can turn a sharp turn south when alcohol is involved. These situations can be overwhelming and confusing, especially when there are unanswered questions about who is liable. At Fielding Law, we understand the emotional toll an accident can take on a person. Our priority is to carry the legal burden so you can fully focus on healing. We are here to support you. Reach out to us for your free consultation today to see if you have a claim.  

Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.

Doctor looking at a brain scan after a concussion injury

Beginner’s Guide to a Concussion

By Brain Injury (TBI), Personal Injury

Suffering a head injury can be a disorienting and scary experience. Whether it is from a slip and fall, car accident, or another personal injury, they should never be ignored. At Fielding Law we want to ensure that you have all the resources to best approach a concussion and know how to work through recovery while receiving proper legal help.

What is a Concussion?

A type of traumatic brain injury caused by a jolt, bump or blow to the head, or even a hit to the body that causes the brain to move inside the skull. It can feel frightening, but with proper care, support, and rest, most people recover well and return to their normal activities.

Signs You Might Need a Concussion Injury Attorney

If your concussion was caused by someone else’s negligence, watch for these signs that it may be time to seek legal representation:

  • Persistent Headaches—Ongoing pain or pressure in your head that does not go away.
  • Feeling “Foggy/Dazed”—You have difficulty thinking clearly, concentrating, or not feeling quite like yourself.
  • Memory Loss—You struggle to remember things before or after the injury, or general forgetfulness.
  • Vomiting—Throwing up more than once and feeling sick to your stomach.
  • Sensitivity to Light or Noise—You might feel uncomfortable or overwhelmed to bright lights or loud sounds.
  • Sleep Disturbances—You struggle to fall asleep or stay asleep.

What Not to Do After

It is important to give your brain the rest it needs after a concussion. Activities that require a significant amount of mental or physical effort like studying, working, physical exercise, or using your phone, can worsen symptoms. Giving your brain time to rest helps the healing process. It might be hard to pause your typical routine, but taking this time to rest is a great way to support your recovery.

Steps After an Injury

If you suspect a concussion, take the following steps to protect your health and legal rights:

  1. Call 911 —Get help immediately and ensure a report is filed.
  2. Seek Medical Attention  —Even if symptoms seem minor, a medical evaluation is crucial.
  3. Document Everything—Take photos and videos of the scene. Write down what happened while it is fresh.
  4. Stay off Social Media—Avoid sharing any details publicly, which could hurt your case.
  5. Do Not speak With the Other Party’s Insurance—Do not speak to the insurance company before talking to us with the other party’s insurance.
  6. Contact Fielding Law—Our team can guide you from the start.

You Need a Concussion Injury Attorney In Your Corner

At Fielding Law, we are here to support you through your post-concussion journey. Our team is here to stand by you and provide not only personalized care but expertise, and legal representation. Call us at 833.88.SHARK for your free consultation today. We are here when you need us the most.

Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.

open books on a table

Terms to Know in Personal Injury

By Bicycle Accident, Boating Accident, Car Accident, Personal Injury, Premises Liability, Public Entity

Personal Injury law can seem unnerving at first, especially if it is your first time going through the process. Following an accident that was not your fault, it is completely natural to feel uncertain or overwhelmed about what comes next. That’s why we have created this simple guide to help you understand some of the key terms in personal injury law. Our goal is to make things clearer and help you feel more confident as you move forward in the legal process. Even a basic understanding of terminology can help the path feel a bit more approachable and less overwhelming.

Personal Injury

Negligence

  • Failure to take proper care or act with a level of caution that then results in the harm or damage to another person.
  • Example: A driver is texting while driving and runs a red light, hitting another car. The driver has failed to follow traffic laws and pay attention.

Plaintiff

  • You! The party who initiates a lawsuit by filing a complaint against another party. They are the one bringing the legal action and seeking a remedy for damages, and who we as Fielding Law represent.

Defendant

  • Them! The person, company or organization being blamed or sued in a legal case, whichever party is believed to have acted wrongfully.

Claim

  • When someone seeks legal justice for harm they’ve experienced, often because they are trying to find support, accountability, and sense of closure.

Liability

  • Being legally responsible for causing an accident or harm. They are responsible for covering medical bills, lost wages, or other costs after an accident.

Compensation

  • Money or support that someone receives after being hurt or harmed because of someone else’s actions or negligence. This helps cover things like medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.

Medical Lien

  • Money given to someone who has been hurt or suffered a loss because of another person’s actions.

How Fielding Law Can Guide You

At Fielding Law, we are committed to more than just guiding you through the legal terms. We are here to make sure you feel supported and understood throughout the entire process. If you or a loved one has any questions or concerns, please contact us at 833.88.SHARK. Your peace of mind matters to us and we want you to feel empowered in moving ahead.

Nota: La información proporcionada es para fines educativos y no constituye asesoramiento legal. Siempre consulte con un abogado calificado para inquietudes legales.

Fielding Law on laptop screen sitting on a desktop with books and small plants

Internship Insights: What I Learned at Fielding Law

By Firm News and Celebrations, Personal Injury, Public Entity

My internship at Fielding Law was more than a chance to develop my writing skills; it was an eye-opening journey into the legal world and a supportive team culture. At first, I only wanted to improve my professional writing. A family friend, Clark Fielding, encouraged me to apply so I could shadow their Director of Art & Brand Development. That recommendation led to an experience that expanded my knowledge of personal injury law. It introduced me to a team dedicated to kindness, professionalism, and collaboration.

Fielding Law sign on the wall with Clark Fielding and Makenzie Moncrief, Marketing intern

Founder and Attorney Clark H. Fielding with Marketing Intern Makenzie Moncrief at the Fielding Law California office.

What I Learned About Personal Injury Law

I learned that more situations qualify as valid legal cases than I once believed. For example, if someone trips over an overgrown tree root at a public park, it could be a public entity case. The city or responsible agency may be liable for the negligence if they did not maintain the area. Before this internship, I assumed I would be solely at fault in that situation.

I also realized how many team members work on each case to achieve the best outcome for clients. Each success is the result of coordinated efforts from many professionals.

What Surprised Me Most About Fielding Law

The culture and communication style at Fielding Law is professional, respectful, and supportive. The team strives to uplift each other and communicate with openness and honesty. They truly live the idea of ‘Rise Together.’ They want the best for everyone they meet and give thoughtful, genuine advice.

From observing attorneys and case managers, I saw that even in difficult cases, a positive outlook matters. That attitude helps clients feel more at ease and builds trust in Fielding Law.

Tips I Would Give to Clients Now

Having been on the other side, I understand what it feels like to be injured in an accident. My best advice is to stay positive and remember that calling a law firm does not have to be intimidating. Even if Fielding Law cannot take your case, the team works hard to connect you with a firm that can help. Trusting Fielding Law to handle the legal complexities lifts a huge burden and keeps your case moving forward.

What It Meant to Be a Fielding Law Shark

My favorite project was interviewing each team member in person. This gave me the chance to connect with coworkers on a deeper level and learn about their passion for helping clients. I discovered that I enjoy turning a blank page into a meaningful message. Stepping out of my comfort zone leads to opportunities I did not expect. This Fielding Law internship experience showed me I can pursue bold ambitions. It also inspired me to build a career in multimedia journalism within the fashion industry.

I sincerely thank the Fielding Law team for making me feel welcome and accepted. They are committed to helping everyone grow and become the best version of themselves.

Looking Ahead

Over the past three months, this internship has strengthened my confidence in my abilities. As I work toward a Bachelor of Arts in Communications with an emphasis in Journalism from Brigham Young University, I will carry this experience with me.

Fielding Law values interns and future law students. They take pride in showing how a law firm operates, always leading with kindness, professionalism, and care. Being part of the team has set a high standard for my future, and I am grateful for the example they have given me. This Fielding Law internship experience will continue to guide me as I move forward in my career.

Makenzie Moncrief

Makenzie Moncrief
Marketing Intern | Summer of 2025

Outdoor movie screen set up with 2 rows of chairs with trees in the background

Can You File a Claim If You Were Injured at a Free Outdoor Movie?

By Car Accident, Dog / Animal Bite, Personal Injury, Slip or Trip and Fall

Outdoor movies offer a perfect blend of cinematic magic and the natural beauty of the outdoors, making them the ultimate summer activity for friends and family. However, it is important to note that accidents can happen unexpectedly, and even relaxing activities like these can come with certain risks. Just because an event is free does not mean the organizers are free from responsibility if an attendee gets hurt.

Possible Negligent Parties

When an outdoor movie injury occurs, responsibility often falls on those who planned, hosted, or maintained the event space. Potentially liable parties may include:

  • The Event Organizer – Typically, a private company or non-profit. They take on the important responsibility of planning the event, securing permits, coordinating vendors, arranging security, setting up equipment, and ensuring the safety of others. If they fail to take reasonable steps to prevent injury, they may be held liable.
  • The City or Municipality – If the event is held in a public park or city-managed location, the city or county may be partially responsible for maintaining the property. This includes lighting, landscaping, and repairing known hazards. However, when dealing with public entities, special rules apply. State and local governments are often protected by laws that limit when and how they can be sued. In Arizona and California, statutes such as the Arizona Notice of Claim statute or California’s Government Claims Act require specific procedures and tight deadlines. Failure to follow these rules can bar a claim entirely.

Common Negligence Scenarios

An outdoor movie injury can happen when safety is overlooked by event organizers, vendors, or property owners. Some of the most common causes of injury include:

  • Trip and Fall Hazards – Exposed electrical cords, uneven grass or pavement, and unmarked curbs can cause serious falls.
  • Insufficient Security – A lack of crowd control or security presence can increase the risk of altercations or other safety threats
  • Poor Lighting – Inadequate lighting around seating areas, walkways, and exits may lead to slips, trips, and other injuries.
  • Foodborne Illness – If food trucks or concession stands hired by the city or event organizer do not follow safety standards, guests may suffer food poisoning.
  • Dog Bites or Animal Attacks – Injuries from pets brought by audience members may be preventable with proper regulations and enforcement.
  • Sharp Objects in Grass – Debris, glass, or sharp hidden objects can injure barefoot guests or children playing on the lawn.
  • Parking Lot Accidents – Poorly lit or unmonitored parking zones increase the risk of pedestrian accidents and vehicle collisions.
  • Traffic Direction Failures – Lack of signage or staff can cause confusion, fender-benders, or even serious collisions.
  • Unsecured Equipment – Large screens, speakers, or projectors that are not properly secured may fall and cause injury.

Steps After an Outdoor Movie Injury

  • Seek Medical Attention – Even if the injury does not seem serious right now, it is still a good idea to see a doctor. Your health – both physical and emotional – matters and taking care of yourself should always come first.
  • Document the Scene – If you are able, take photos of the scene, and make note of your injuries, the weather conditions, and whether there were any warning signs present. It can also help to record the date, time, and exact location. All these details may feel a lot to take in, but they can be essential later as you begin to process what happened.
  • Find Out Who Is at Fault – Consult Fielding Law, and we can help you figure out the unknowns.
  • Contact Fielding Law at 833.88.SHARK – We are in your corner, ready to support you through the legal process so you can focus on healing. Our goal is to make your recovery as painless as possible.

Your Outdoor Movie Attorney

At Fielding Law, we understand that outdoor movies can be a hard situation to navigate. With our expertise guidance and compassionate approach, we will support you through every step of the legal process. Call us at 833.88.SHARK for your free consultation today.

Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.

A young girl plays tennis in the summer

Avoiding a Summer Injury

By Brain Injury (TBI), Burn Injury, Personal Injury

With warm weather and longer days, summer is the perfect time to get outside, stay active, and enjoy your favorite sports and recreational activities. From pickup games at the park to neighborhood bike rides, there is no better season. However, amid all the excitement, it is easy to neglect proper care—or fall victim to someone else’s carelessness. If your summer injury was caused by negligence, you may have a personal injury case. Here are a few guidelines to help you stay safe and injury-free.

Common Injuries

By understanding common injuries, we can better protect ourselves—and know when a situation may have legal consequences.

Heat Exhaustion

Feeling dizzy, sweaty, or nauseous? Your body may be overheating and struggling to cool down.
Protecting Yourself
Avoid activity during extreme heat and take frequent breaks. If a coach, facility, or property owner failed to provide shade, hydration, or supervision, and you became ill, that could be considered negligence.

Stress Fractures

Repetitive activities like running can put too much pressure on bones, leading to small fractures.
Protecting Yourself
Ease into summer sports and include rest days. If a trainer failed to balance workouts or allowed unsafe repetition without breaks, they may be responsible for resulting injuries.

Tendonitis

Swollen or painful tendons often result from repeating the same motion too many times.
Protecting Yourself
Stretch regularly and check your form during activity. If a coach ignored warning signs, failed to adjust routines, or neglected injury prevention, this could be negligent training.

Concussions

A concussion is a brain injury that can occur after a bump or hit to the head.
Protecting Yourself
Always wear proper gear and follow the rules. If the school, camp, or facility failed to provide or maintain helmets or protective equipment, that is a serious oversight and may be grounds for a personal injury claim.

Sunburn or Blisters

Painful skin damage and fluid-filled blisters are signs of excessive sun exposure.
Protecting Yourself
Use sunscreen, reapply often, and wear a hat. If a coach or camp leader pushed children to play outdoors in extreme heat without breaks or failed to encourage sunscreen, that may be considered negligent supervision.

When Is Someone Else Legally Responsible?

Trainers, coaches, and property owners must take reasonable steps to prevent harm. Some examples of potential negligence include:

  • A summer camp counselor fails to supervise kids during a soccer game, and one is seriously injured.

  • A water sports instructor ignores life jacket protocols, and a participant is harmed.

  • A bike rental shop provides bikes with faulty brakes, resulting in injuries.

Why Hire Fielding Law

If summer fun turned into a serious injury due to someone else’s negligence, Fielding Law is ready to help. We understand the impact of sports-related and recreational injuries and will handle your case with care and skill. Call 833.88.SHARK for a free consultation and let us help you rise through this challenge—together.

Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.

row of shoes at a store

Back-To-School Shopping Gone Wrong

By Car Accident, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Slip or Trip and Fall

It is that time of year again, gearing up for that fresh start with new pencils, clothes, and backpacks as we prepare to head back to school. While this season brings plenty of excitement, it can also come with potential injuries in the least likely places, such as stores. Take a moment to consider the risks that come with back-to-school shopping.

Possible Injury Scenarios

  • Slip and Fall: Wet floors, such as those recently mopped in stores, can pose a serious fall risk if not clearly marked. Similarly, slips or trips can take place in parking lots/garages from oil spills or wet surfaces. Stay alert and aware.
  • Parking Garage Accidents: Unfortunately, during the busy season, drivers may sometimes overlook rules or laws, increasing the risk of accidents.
  • Pedestrian Accidents: As highlighted above, drivers are in a rush at the start of the school year. Keep your young ones within sight and sound to prevent crosswalk accidents and walk defensively.
  • Shelving and Display Objects/Falling Objects: With so much happening on the sales floor, it is understandable that employees may become overwhelmed with tasks. However, when shelves, mannequins, or displays are not properly secured or maintained, they can create serious safety hazards. Customers may be at risk of injury from falling objects or unstable setups.
  • Escalator or Elevator Accidents: A poorly maintained escalator can cause a shopper’s shoe or clothing to get caught or lead to tripping. Faulty elevators may trap customers for long periods. Without proper upkeep, these common features can quickly become serious safety hazards.
  • Overcrowding: Without proper security and thoughtful crowd management, shopping centers during the back-to-school season can quickly become overwhelming. This increases the risk of pushing, shoving, and unfortunate injuries, especially for young children who are more vulnerable in crowded spaces.

Do I Need an Attorney for This?

In situations like these, many shoppers feel that the injury is no big deal or that they are partially at fault. Some even believe they lack the legal resources to seek justice if they have experienced any form of negligence. At Fielding Law, we want you to know that the negligent harm you or a loved one has undergone while shopping deserves to be taken seriously. If you have a case, we are here with the expertise and resources to guide you through the legal process.

Why Choose Fielding Law

If you have been injured while shopping, do not be afraid to reach us for a free no-obligation consultation at 833.88.SHARK. You and your loved ones deserve peace of mind, protection, and the support to move forward with confidence.

Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.

People gathered on a trail with bikes in the woods

Why Accidents Spike in the Summer

By Boating Accident, Car Accident, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Personal Watercraft (PWC) Accident, RV Accident

Summer is a time for travel and making memories, but it also means heavier traffic on California and Arizona roads. With school out and many families taking well-earned time off, the highways get busier than usual. It is important to stay patient and alert so everyone can get to where they are going safely.

Specialty Crafts

RV Accidents – RVs are heavier, slower to stop, and harder to maneuver than regular vehicles. Drivers who are unfamiliar with operating a large vehicle may misjudge turns, fail to check blind spots, or cause rollover accidents. Inexperienced drivers also may not account for height restrictions when traveling under bridges or through tunnels.

Boating Accidents

Arizona and California both see a surge in water activity during summer. Lakes, rivers, and coastal areas are packed with boats. Many watercraft operators are inexperienced or under the influence, leading to collisions and serious injuries.

Personal Watercraft PWC

In addition to boats, the waters of California and Arizona waters are often crowded with personal watercrafts like Jet Skis. Many of these are operated by younger individuals who may lack experience, especially since they do not ride them year-round.

Teen Drivers

Summer break means more teen drivers are behind the wheel, and with limited experience, they pose a higher risk on the road. Teens are also highly impressionable and often model their driving habits after their guardians. When parents engage in risky behaviors, they set a dangerous example that their kids are likely to follow.

Road Construction

During the summer months, longer daylight hours and favorable weather create ideal conditions for road construction. While this work is important, it can lead to increased traffic, frustrated and impatient drivers, and new traffic patterns causing accidents.

Pedestrians

Summer brings festivals, concerts, and outdoor markets, which creates more foot traffic in cities. Popular destinations like Disneyland surge visitors, resulting in more drivers on the road traveling to and from these attractions.

Impaired and Distracted Drivers

Summer gatherings like parties and backyard barbeques a beloved tradition, but they often coincide with an increase in drunk or impaired driving, especially during nighttime hours. Additionally, many drivers become distracted by looking at their phones for directions or texting and calling for more information.

Why Hire Fielding Law

The attorneys at Fielding Law know that accidents can turn your life upside down, especially during what should be a relaxing time of the year. Whether you have been injured as a driver, pedestrian, or passenger, you do not have to do the aftermath alone. Contact us today at 833.88.SHARK for compassionate and professional guidance.

Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.

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