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Tina Westveer

a person sitting on a cliff with a dog standing next to them.

Bitten? Know California’s Dog Bite Law

By Dog / Animal Bite, Premises Liability

Understanding California’s Dog Bite Law

A dog bite can be both physically and emotionally traumatic. In California, the law is clear—dog owners are strictly liable for injuries caused by their pets, even if the dog has never bitten anyone before.

This means that if you were bitten in a public place or lawfully on private property, the dog’s owner is responsible for your injuries.

California Civil Code § 3342 sets this rule in place and provides important protections for victims.

What Does “Strict Liability” Mean?

Under strict liability, the dog owner is automatically responsible for the bite, regardless of whether:

  • The dog has a history of aggression

  • The owner knew the dog might bite

  • The owner tried to prevent the bite

The only requirements are that the victim was either in a public place or lawfully on private property (such as a guest or delivery worker). There is no need to prove that the dog owner was negligent.

Where and When This Law Applies

California’s dog bite law applies in many common situations:

  • Bites in public parks, sidewalks, or neighborhoods

  • Attacks on private property where the victim was invited

  • Bites that occur at a dog owner’s home or during a visit

  • Injuries to workers such as mail carriers or landscapers

It does not apply if the victim was trespassing, provoking the dog, or if the dog was a police or military dog performing its duties.

Injuries Covered by the Law

Dog bites can cause serious harm, including:

  • Deep lacerations or puncture wounds

  • Infection and scarring

  • Nerve damage or loss of function

  • Emotional trauma, including fear or PTSD

Even a single bite can result in emergency room visits, surgeries, and long-term recovery. The law allows victims to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and more.

What To Do After a Dog Bite

If you or your child has been bitten:

Speak with an attorney who understands personal injury and dog bite laws before accepting any settlement.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we understand the physical pain and emotional toll that dog bites can cause. Whether your case involves a child bitten at a neighbor’s home or an adult attacked in public, we take your injury seriously. Our team will guide you through the legal process with compassion, professionalism, and the experience needed to pursue maximum compensation.

We represent injured clients throughout California and Arizona. You do not have to go through this alone.

Contact Fielding Law at 833.88.SHARK today for a free consultation.

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

September 24, 2025
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Clark Fielding sitting on a sofa for Top Lawyers

Clark H. Fielding Recognized Among Orange County’s Top Lawyers

By Firm News and Celebrations, Personal Injury

Clark H. Fielding, founding principal of Fielding Law, has been recognized as one of Orange County’s Top Lawyers in the October edition of Modern Luxury Riviera OC Magazine. This award highlights Clark’s dedication to providing skilled, compassionate legal representation to clients facing personal injury challenges. Click to read Clark’s feature.

Clark Fielding feature Top Lawyers in Riviera OC Fielding Law Recognized Across Orange County

In addition to Clark’s individual recognition, Fielding Law received several honors in 2025:

These accolades reflect the firm’s commitment to excellence, strategic advocacy, and client-focused service. They also highlight Fielding Law’s dedication to positively impacting both the legal community and the local area.

Commitment to Clients

Clark H. Fielding and the team at Fielding Law prioritize client care at every step. From the first consultation through case resolution, the firm ensures that clients receive guidance, attention, and assertive advocacy. These honors reinforce the firm’s reputation for professionalism, integrity, and ethical legal service.

Why Hire Fielding Law

Choosing Fielding Law means partnering with attorneys who are experienced, empathetic, and focused on achieving the best possible outcome. Our team provides thorough case evaluation, aggressive advocacy, and clear communication. We help clients navigate complex personal injury matters with confidence.

To schedule a consultation with Fielding Law, call 833.88.SHARK today.

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

September 23, 2025
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impaired vision driving. Roadway is blurry with surroundings having a motion blur

Injured by an Impaired Person

By Car Accident

Understanding Impairment and Injury

Injury-causing accidents involving impaired individuals are more common than many realize. Impairment can affect judgment, reaction time, motor skills, and decision-making. When a person is not fully alert or functioning normally, their actions can endanger others—whether behind the wheel, operating machinery, or even hosting an event.

Types of Impairment That Cause Injuries

Impairment can take many forms. Below are common types that may contribute to preventable injuries:

1. Alcohol Impairment

  • One of the most well-known forms.

  • Impaired drivers cause thousands of fatal crashes each year.

  • The NHTSA reports that 13,524 people died in alcohol-impaired crashes in 2022 alone.

2. Drug Impairment

  • Includes both illegal substances and prescription medications.

  • Even legal drugs like sleep aids, antidepressants, and painkillers can impair judgment or motor skills.

  • According to the CDC, marijuana is the most frequently detected drug in impaired drivers after alcohol.

3. Fatigue (Drowsy Driving)

  • Sleep deprivation mimics alcohol intoxication.

  • A driver who has been awake for 20+ hours has the same performance impairment as a driver with a 0.08% BAC.³

  • The National Safety Council estimates drowsy driving contributes to over 100,000 crashes every year.⁴

4. Medical Conditions

  • Conditions like epilepsy, diabetes (low blood sugar), and neurological disorders can impair awareness and cause sudden accidents.

  • Drivers are required by law to disclose these conditions to the DMV, but many fail to do so.

5. Mental Impairment

  • Anxiety, depression, and psychosis may affect a person’s ability to act safely and rationally.

  • These impairments may also contribute to workplace injuries, self-harm in public spaces, or endangerment of others.

What to Do if You Are Injured Due to Impairment

If you suspect impairment played a role in your accident or injury, here are the steps to take:

1. Call 911 Immediately
Get law enforcement and emergency services on the scene. Police can conduct field sobriety or drug tests.

2. Document the Scene
Take photos of damage, the location, people involved, and any visible signs of impairment (e.g., stumbling, slurred speech).

3. Get Medical Attention
Even if you feel okay, get checked. Some injuries may not present symptoms right away.

4. Speak with Witnesses
Ask anyone nearby if they noticed odd behavior before the incident—this can support your claim.

5. Contact Fielding Law
Do not navigate this alone. If someone’s impairment caused your injury, you may be eligible for compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

What This Means for You

Whether your injuries occurred in a car accident, at a public event, on private property, or at work, impairment can be a form of negligence. If the impaired person was acting irresponsibly—and their condition led to your injury—there may be a legal case against them and potentially other responsible parties, such as:

  • A bar or restaurant that over-served alcohol

  • A property owner who failed to monitor impaired guests

  • An employer who allowed an unfit employee to work

You do not have to prove the person meant to harm you—only that their impairment made them a danger to others and that it caused your injury.

Why Hire Fielding Law

If you or someone you love has been injured due to impairment, our team at Fielding Law is here to guide you with care and strength. We help victims understand their rights and pursue the maximum compensation available under the law. We are not a massive firm with gimmicks—we are a compassionate, capable team focused on getting real results for real people.

Call 833.88.SHARK or contact Fielding Law today for a free consultation.

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

September 23, 2025
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cars driving on a highway at nighttime

Injured in a Nighttime Accident?

By Bicycle Accident, Car Accident, Pedestrian Accident

Why Are Nighttime Accidents So Dangerous?

Driving at night significantly increases the risk of a serious crash. Even though fewer vehicles are on the road after dark, studies show that a nighttime accident is more likely to result in serious injury or death. Reduced visibility, fatigue, and a higher rate of impaired or reckless drivers all contribute to the danger.

In both California and Arizona, nighttime crashes are especially common on freeways, poorly lit streets, and rural roads.

Common Causes of Nighttime Accidents

There are many factors that make nighttime driving risky. Some of the most common causes of nighttime accidents include:

When visibility drops and reaction time is reduced, even a small mistake can lead to a serious crash.

What This Means for You

If you were hurt in a nighttime accident, do not assume it is harder to prove what happened. Whether you were rear-ended, sideswiped, or hit while walking, an experienced attorney can investigate the circumstances and determine who is responsible.

You may be entitled to compensation for:

It is important to act quickly. Evidence such as roadway lighting, surveillance video, and witness statements can disappear if not preserved early in the process.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we understand the serious impact a nighttime accident can have on your life. We have experience with low-visibility crash cases and know how to uncover details others might miss. From the moment you call us, our team will work to protect your rights and hold the negligent party accountable.

We approach every case with compassion, professionalism, and a strong commitment to results.

If you or a loved one was injured in a nighttime accident,call 833.88.SHARKor contact Fielding Law for a free consultation.

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

September 22, 2025
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two people holding hands consoling each other after a catastrophic injury

Understanding Future Damages in Catastrophic Injury Cases

By Catastrophic Injury

What Is a Catastrophic Injury Lawyer’s Role in Future Damages in Catastrophic Injury Cases?

Catastrophic injuries have long-lasting physical, emotional, and financial effects. When someone suffers such a life-changing injury due to negligence, a catastrophic injury lawyer works to secure full compensation. This includes future damages in catastrophic injury cases—costs that extend far beyond immediate medical bills.

Understanding how future damages are calculated can help injury victims and their families navigate the legal process with confidence.

Types of Future Damages in Catastrophic Injury Cases

Future Medical Costs

Catastrophic injuries often require lifelong treatment. These costs may include surgeries, therapy, assistive devices, medications, and in-home care. Attorneys work with medical experts to estimate these ongoing expenses.

Loss of Future Earnings

If the injury prevents returning to work or reduces earning capacity, compensation for lost future earnings is essential. This considers factors like your career path, age, and experience.

Home and Vehicle Modifications

Many victims need home modifications to improve accessibility—such as ramps or stair lifts—and sometimes adapted vehicles. These are recoverable as part of future damages.

Long-Term Personal or Nursing Care

Some injuries require daily personal assistance or nursing care. These ongoing needs must be factored into the future damages claim.

Mental Health Support and Counseling

Psychological care may be needed long-term. A skilled catastrophic injury lawyer ensures this is included in the damages sought.

How Future Damages Are Calculated in Catastrophic Injury Cases

Estimating future damages in catastrophic injury cases involves collaboration with:

  • Medical professionals to outline treatment needs

  • Vocational experts to assess work limitations

  • Economists to project future costs and inflation

These reports provide a detailed and realistic estimate to support your claim.

Why Future Damages Matter

Future damages often represent the largest portion of compensation in catastrophic injury cases. Insurance companies may undervalue or ignore these costs to limit payouts. Without proper legal support, victims may accept settlements that do not cover their long-term needs.

Having an attorney who understands future damages in cases protects your financial future.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we recognize that the effects of catastrophic injuries last a lifetime. Our team works closely with experts to build strong cases that fully reflect your future damages. We fight for the compensation you need to secure care, modify your home, and protect your financial well-being.

Call 833.88.SHARK today to schedule a free consultation with a catastrophic injury lawyer dedicated to helping you.

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

September 19, 2025
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social media influencer standing in the middle of a street with a sunset in the background

Chasing the Perfect Image: Influencer Street Accident

By Car Accident, Catastrophic Injury, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Public Entity, Wrongful Death

According to KTLA, Instagram personality Ben Bruno recently posted a video of a Beverly Hills street where at least 22 people were posing in the middle of traffic. Vehicles slowed or stopped as influencers turned a public street into a photo backdrop.

While it may look entertaining online, standing in an active roadway is extremely dangerous. Roads are meant for vehicles and safe pedestrian crossings, not for photo sessions. When those rules are ignored, an influencer street accident can occur with serious injuries or worse.

Why This Behavior Creates Risk

Influencers and onlookers may not realize the danger of blocking traffic. Drivers cannot always anticipate sudden obstacles in the road. Common risks include:

Even a single mistake can cause catastrophic injury.

Who Could Be Liable in a Collision

If a driver struck someone blocking the street, several parties could face responsibility.

The influencer or organizer

Directing people into a street may be considered negligent. Organizers can be held responsible for creating unsafe conditions that could lead to an influencer street accident.

The participants

Those posing in the road may share fault for their own injuries. California and Arizona follow comparative negligence rules, which allow liability to be divided among multiple parties.

The driver

A driver who was speeding, distracted, or failing to follow traffic laws could also be found at fault.

The city

In limited cases, the city might share liability if poor signage, lighting, or lack of enforcement contributed to the danger. Government liability is often difficult to prove.

The Legal Risks of Dangerous Content

Influencers may underestimate the legal and financial consequences of content created in unsafe places. Blocking a public street can result in fines, civil lawsuits, or criminal charges. Insurance companies may deny coverage if conduct is reckless or illegal.

For drivers, these situations create unfair risk. Even a careful driver may face a costly legal dispute if they hit someone standing in the road, creating an influencer street accident scenario.

Why Hire Fielding Law

If you or a loved one has been injured, you need guidance from an experienced accident lawyer. Fielding Law has helped thousands of injured people in California and Arizona with compassion, professionalism, and determination. Our team will investigate your case, determine liability, and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Call 833.88.SHARK today to schedule a free consultation with Fielding Law.

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

September 18, 2025
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Dog sitting on a lawn

Arizona’s Dog Bite Law Explained

By Dog / Animal Bite, Personal Injury, Premises Liability

Understanding Arizona’s Dog Bite Statute

Dog bites can cause serious physical and emotional injuries—especially to children. Arizona law gives bite victims strong legal rights under A.R.S. § 11-1025, which holds dog owners strictly liable when their dog bites someone in public or lawfully on private property.

Strict liability means that the victim does not need to prove that the dog had a history of aggression or that the owner was negligent. If a dog bites, the owner is responsible.

When the Law Applies

Arizona’s strict liability dog bite law applies when:

  • The victim is in a public place or

  • The victim is lawfully on private property, such as a guest, postal worker, or delivery driver

The law does not apply if the victim was trespassing or provoking the dog. In those cases, the owner may have a defense.

This statute applies even if the dog has never bitten before and has no known history of aggression.

Key Differences from California

Although similar to California’s law, Arizona’s statute includes some important differences:

  • Time limits: Arizona has a one-year statute of limitations for strict liability dog bite claims under A.R.S. § 11-1025. After that, victims may still bring a negligence claim, which has a two-year limit.

  • Provocation defense: If the dog was provoked, the owner may avoid liability under this law.

  • Trespassing defense: Unlike California, Arizona emphasizes the victim’s legal status on the property at the time of the bite.

What Damages Can Be Recovered?

Dog bite victims in Arizona may recover compensation for:

  • Emergency room and hospital bills

  • Future medical care and plastic surgery

  • Lost wages or missed school

  • Pain and suffering

  • Scarring or disfigurement

  • Emotional trauma or anxiety

These cases can be especially complex when a child is the victim. Arizona courts take extra care to ensure the settlement is in the best interest of the minor.

What To Do After a Dog Bite

If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog:

A dog bite can lead to infection, nerve damage, and long-term emotional distress. It is important to take action quickly to protect your rights.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we fight for dog bite victims across Arizona. Whether your child was attacked at a neighbor’s home or you were bitten while walking in your neighborhood, our team is here to help.

We understand the emotional stress and physical pain dog bite injuries cause—and we take them seriously. Our goal is to protect your rights, hold negligent owners accountable, and help you recover the compensation you deserve.

Contact Fielding Law at 833.88.SHARK for a free consultation today. We are ready to listen and help.

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

September 18, 2025
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woman driving car down a gravel road

Breast Implant Rupture During Car Accident

By Car Accident, Personal Injury, Product Liability

Understanding Implant Rupture After a Collision

Breast implants are medical devices, not indestructible shields. When a person with implants is involved in a car accident, particularly a high-impact crash, the pressure or blunt force trauma may lead to a breast implant rupture. This situation is not only physically painful but can also cause emotional distress, unexpected medical bills, and long-term complications.

If you or a loved one experienced a breast implant rupture during an auto accident, you may be eligible for compensation. This is especially true if the accident was caused by another driver’s negligence or if faulty seatbelt or airbag deployment worsened the injury.

Common Causes of Breast Implant Ruptures in Accidents

While breast implants are tested for durability, they are not immune to trauma. Some leading causes of rupture in a vehicle crash include:

  • Airbag deployment that compresses the chest

  • Seatbelt force against the implant area

  • Direct trauma from hitting the steering wheel or door

  • Pre-existing manufacturing defects in the implant

These injuries can go unnoticed immediately after a crash. It is important to seek both emergency and follow-up care to catch hidden injuries.

Signs Your Implant May Have Ruptured

Symptoms may vary based on whether the implant is silicone or saline. In either case, if you suspect a rupture after an accident, seek medical evaluation right away.

Common signs include:

  • Sudden change in breast shape or size

  • Hard lumps or rippling under the skin

  • Pain, tenderness, or burning

  • Swelling or inflammation

  • Asymmetry or deformity

Saline implants typically deflate quickly and are absorbed by the body, making them easier to identify. Silicone implant ruptures, on the other hand, may take longer to notice and could result in scar tissue buildup or chronic pain.

Who Is Liable for the Injury?

Liability in cases involving breast implant ruptures during auto accidents can be complex. You may have more than one claim:

  • The negligent driver who caused the crash

  • The auto manufacturer if defective airbags or seatbelts were involved

  • The implant manufacturer if the product failed prematurely

To determine liability and calculate fair compensation, a qualified attorney will conduct a thorough investigation, review your medical records, and consult experts if necessary.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

If your implant ruptured in a crash, you may be able to recover compensation for:

These cases often involve both personal injury and product liability claims. A skilled attorney will help you pursue the full compensation you deserve.

Why Hire Fielding Law

Fielding Law is not a massive, impersonal firm. We are dedicated, experienced attorneys who truly care about our clients. We understand the physical and emotional toll these injuries can take. If you are dealing with breast implants rupturing during an auto accident, our compassionate legal team will guide you every step of the way.

We fight for your recovery so you can focus on healing. Call Fielding Law at 833.88.SHARK or contact us through our online form for a free consultation.

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

September 17, 2025
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Navy blue gradient background with a Fielding Law Shark Jaw logo

CAOC Membership Strengthens Advocacy

By Firm News and Celebrations, Personal Injury

Clark’s Commitment to Justice

At Fielding Law, we believe in advocacy that protects individuals and families. Clark H. Fielding shows that commitment through his membership in the Consumer Attorneys of California (CAOC). CAOC protects the legal rights of consumers and ensures access to justice. With this membership, Clark gains tools to fight powerful insurance companies and corporations for clients injured because of negligence.

Why CAOC Matters for Clients

CAOC unites attorneys across California who represent plaintiffs in personal injury cases. Membership gives Clark:

  • Advanced legal education and training

  • Updates on California laws and regulations

  • A network of skilled trial attorneys who share strategies and insights

  • A voice in state advocacy to keep laws strong for injured people

These resources allow Clark to build stronger cases and pursue better results for clients.

Leadership Through Community

Clark’s CAOC membership goes beyond professional growth. It shows his dedication to the legal community and to protecting consumer rights. By staying engaged with CAOC, he continues to learn, connect, and fight for the people who trust Fielding Law after an accident.

Why Hire Fielding Law

Finding the right attorney after an accident can feel overwhelming. At Fielding Law, clients are never treated like case files. Each person deserves compassion, guidance, and strong legal advocacy. Clark’s CAOC membership means clients work with a lawyer who combines empathy with skill, backed by a community of professionals who share his commitment to justice.

If you or a loved one has suffered an injury, contact Fielding Law today or call 833.88.SHARK to speak with a personal injury attorney who will fight for you.

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

September 15, 2025
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two people exchanging insurance

What if the Other Driver Does Not Have Insurance?

By Car Accident

What If the Other Driver Does Not Have Insurance?

Getting into a car accident is stressful enough. But finding out the other driver does not have insurance? That adds another layer of frustration and confusion.

If this has happened to you, you are not alone. Many drivers in California and Arizona face this issue every day. Luckily, there are ways to protect yourself and still pursue compensation.

What Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?

If the at-fault driver does not have insurance, your own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage can help. This is optional insurance in both California and Arizona, but it is highly recommended.

Uninsured motorist coverage can help pay for:

Even if the driver took off and you cannot identify them, UM coverage may still apply. That is called a hit-and-run—and it is more common than people realize.

What If You Do Not Have UM Coverage?

If you do not have uninsured motorist coverage, your options become more limited. You might be able to sue the at-fault driver personally, but that only works if they have assets or income to recover from—which is often not the case.

This is why having a compassionate and capable attorney matters. At Fielding Law, we can help explore every possible path forward. That includes checking for:

  • The driver’s employer’s liability (if they were working at the time)

  • A household policy that might apply

  • Any other negligent parties, such as vehicle manufacturers or road contractors

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we understand how upsetting it can be to learn that the other driver has no insurance. We take the time to understand your case and explain your options clearly. Our team is not a massive firm with gimmicks—we are real people who care about results and relationships.

We handle every case with professionalism, kindness, and strategy—and you will always know where your case stands.

You Are Not Alone

If you were hurt in a crash and the other driver was uninsured, let us help. Call 833.88.SHARK or contact Fielding Law today for a free consultation. You deserve answers—and we will work hard to help you find them.

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

September 15, 2025
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