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Tina Westveer

Lights on a police car during a chase or speed traffic stop

I Sustained Injuries During a High-Speed Chase, Now What?

By Car Accident, Personal Injury, Public Entity

High-speed chases in Los Angeles are an unfortunate reality, with police pursuits frequently making the news. While law enforcement’s goal is to apprehend criminals, these chases come with significant risks to everyone on the road. As a bystander, whether you are a pedestrian, cyclist, motorcyclist, or driver, you can find yourself in harm’s way if you are caught in the middle of one of these dangerous events. These high-speed pursuits often lead to unpredictable and catastrophic accidents that can result in serious injuries or even death.

If you are injured as an innocent bystander during a high-speed chase, it is essential to understand your rights and what steps you should take. In such cases, the legal complexities can be overwhelming, especially when determining liability. Is it the fleeing driver who is responsible? Could law enforcement’s actions during the pursuit play a role in the accident? Here is what you need to know if you find yourself in this situation.

Pedestrian Injuries in a High-Speed Chase

Pedestrians are at great risk during high-speed chases. If a suspect crashes into you while fleeing, injuries can be severe. As a pedestrian, you have little protection. Broken bones, head trauma, and internal injuries are common.

In California, the driver may be held accountable for your injuries. If police officers acted negligently during the chase, they may also be liable.

Cyclist Injuries in a High-Speed Chase

Cyclists are vulnerable to serious harm if hit during a high-speed chase. Lack of protection makes even minor crashes potentially life-changing. Injuries like broken bones, head trauma, and road rash are common.

As a cyclist, you can seek compensation if the fleeing driver is at fault. However, if police negligence contributed to the crash, you may have grounds for a claim against the police department.

Motorcycle Injuries in a High-Speed Chase

Motorcycle riders face severe risks in high-speed chases. A fleeing driver can cause motorcyclists to lose control, resulting in catastrophic injuries. Spinal injuries, broken bones, and brain trauma are often the result.

If the fleeing driver is at fault, they will be held responsible. However, police may share liability if their actions were negligent during the pursuit.

Car Injuries During a High-Speed Chase

If you are in a car and struck by a fleeing vehicle, the injuries can range from minor to severe. High-speed collisions can cause significant damage and serious harm, such as whiplash or broken bones.

In most cases, the fleeing driver is liable. However, if law enforcement’s actions contributed to the accident, there may be grounds to hold the police department responsible.

What Are Your Rights?

As a bystander, your rights depend on the situation. You can seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If the fleeing driver caused the crash, they are responsible. If police negligence played a role, it may be necessary to investigate further.

Why Hire Fielding Law?

At Fielding Law, we are committed to helping bystanders injured in high-speed chases. Our experienced team will investigate the details of the chase and determine fault. We will guide you through the process, ensuring that your rights are protected.

Call Fielding Law at 833.88.SHARK for a free consultation. We will fight for your rights while you focus on your recovery.

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

May 13, 2025
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Two hands shaking with a blurry background.

Smaller Firm vs. Large Firm: Why Smaller is Better

By Personal Injury

When choosing a law firm, there are many factors to consider. Large, well-known firms may seem appealing. However, a smaller law firm often provides distinct advantages that can lead to better outcomes. At Fielding Law, we offer personalized, dedicated service to each client. Our attention to detail sets us apart from large firms. Here are the benefits of choosing a smaller law firm for your legal needs:

Personalized Attention

One of the biggest benefits of hiring a smaller firm is the level of personalized attention you receive. At a large firm, you may feel like just another case among hundreds. With a smaller law firm, you are more likely to work closely with your attorney throughout your case. You will have direct access to the team handling your claim, ensuring that you are always informed and that your concerns are addressed promptly.

Smaller firms have fewer clients, allowing them to devote more time to each case, providing you with the attention and focus your situation deserves. This personal connection often leads to better communication and more tailored legal strategies.

More Direct Access to Experienced Attorneys

At a large firm, you may find yourself working primarily with junior associates or paralegals, with your primary attorney only involved in higher-level matters. In contrast, a smaller law firm allows you to directly engage with the attorney handling your case from start to finish.

This level of access means you are not just a case number; you are treated as an individual, and your attorney is more invested in the outcome of your case. A direct relationship with your attorney can foster a better understanding of your case and ensure all your needs are met.

More Flexible and Agile

Larger firms can be bogged down by bureaucracy and red tape, making it difficult to adjust strategies or act quickly. In contrast, smaller law firms are more agile and can respond quickly to changes in your case or new information. This flexibility is especially important when dealing with personal injury or wrongful death cases, where the situation can evolve rapidly.

A smaller firm can take a more proactive approach, adjusting its strategy as needed to ensure the best possible outcome. With a more flexible workflow, you can expect quicker decisions and more timely responses.

Strong Client Relationships

At a smaller law firm, building strong, long-term relationships with clients is a priority. Because a smaller team works on your case, everyone involved is dedicated to understanding your needs and ensuring that you feel supported throughout the process.

Clients of smaller firms often report higher satisfaction due to the deeper, more personal connections formed with their attorneys. In personal injury cases, where emotions run high and stress levels can be significant, having a supportive, communicative team behind you makes all the difference.

Expertise with a Personal Touch

Although large firms may have more resources, smaller firms often specialize in specific areas of law and have an expertise that rivals their larger counterparts. At Fielding Law, we focus on providing compassionate, capable legal support for personal injury, wrongful death, and property damage cases.

This specialized focus means that, as a client, you will benefit from attorneys who have deep knowledge of the specific area of law your case involves. The personal touch offered by a smaller firm allows for a more customized approach to your legal needs, ensuring that your case receives the expertise it deserves.

Why Hire Fielding Law

Choosing a smaller law firm like Fielding Law offers numerous benefits. These include personalized attention, lower costs, and a more agile approach to your legal needs. We are dedicated to providing expert legal services. We ensure open communication and make sure your voice is heard throughout the process.

If you are facing a legal challenge, call Fielding Law at 833.88.SHARK for a free consultation. We will treat your case with care and expertise. Let us fight for your rights while you focus on what matters most: your recovery.

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

May 12, 2025
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Private property sign to deter a trespasser

Who is Liable for a Trespasser Injury in California or Arizona?

By Premises Liability

Understanding Liability for Trespasser Injury

If someone trespasses on your property in California or Arizona, you might wonder whether you are liable for their injuries. Trespassing laws differ by state, and understanding your rights and responsibilities is essential as a property owner. While you generally do not owe a duty of care to trespassers, there are exceptions that may hold you liable for their injuries.

California’s Premises Liability Law for Trespassers

In California, property owners do not have to keep their land safe for trespassers. However, if you intentionally harm a trespasser or set up dangerous conditions to hurt them, you could face liability. Additionally, you are required to warn trespassers about hidden dangers that could result in severe harm or death.

If a trespasser is injured because of an unmarked hazard, you may be responsible. For example, if there is a deep hole or concealed object that could harm someone, you must make sure it is visible and adequately addressed.

Arizona’s Trespasser Injury Laws

Like California, Arizona does not require property owners to keep their property safe for trespassers. Property owners are not obligated to protect trespassers from harm unless they intentionally cause injury. However, similar to California, Arizona holds property owners accountable if they create dangerous conditions that could be hidden and result in severe injury.

The Attractive Nuisance Doctrine

Both California and Arizona apply the attractive nuisance doctrine, which applies mainly to children. If a child trespasses because they are drawn to something dangerous on your property (such as a pool or construction site), you may be liable for their injury. This doctrine is intended to protect children from unsafe conditions that are enticing yet hazardous.

When Can You Be Liable for a Trespasser’s Injury?

Even though property owners generally do not have a responsibility to trespassers, liability can arise in certain situations:

  • Intentional Harm: If you intentionally harm a trespasser, you can be sued for damages.
  • Concealed Dangerous Conditions: If there are dangerous conditions that you know about but fail to address, you may be responsible for an injury.
  • Injuries to Children: If a child is injured by something dangerous on your property, the attractive nuisance doctrine may make you liable.

Why Hire Fielding Law

If you are facing a situation involving trespasser injury or are unsure about your liability, Fielding Law can help. Our experienced team of personal injury attorneys understands California and Arizona premises liability laws and is committed to providing you with the best representation possible.

Give us a call for a free, no-obligation consultation at 833.88.SHARK. We will help you navigate these complex issues with care and expertise.

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

May 9, 2025
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e bike being road on a small local street

Reckless E-Bike and E-Scooter Games: Who Is at Fault?

By Bicycle Accident, Car Accident, E-Bikes and E-Scooters, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Wrongful Death

Reddit message about reckless e-bike and e-scooter riders in IrvineReckless E-Bike and E-Scooter Behavior Raises Concerns

In Irvine and surrounding areas, there has been a surge of comments on local Facebook groups and Nextdoor about teenagers playing games with drivers at traffic lights while riding e-bikes and e-scooters. Many drivers are alarmed at the increase in this behavior, especially when young riders dart into intersections or swerve in front of moving traffic.

One Reddit user shared their recent experience at W Yale Loop and Blue Lake South, where three teen girls rode diagonally through a busy intersection. This kind of behavior might seem funny to teens, but for drivers, it is a terrifying moment with potentially deadly consequences.

Who Is at Fault in an E-Bike or E-Scooter Accident?

California law requires e-bike and e-scooter riders to follow the same rules as cars. If a rider behaves recklessly and causes an accident, they can be held liable. But many minors do not carry insurance, and their bikes often do not have license plates or registration. This makes it difficult for victims to pursue compensation unless a parent’s homeowner’s policy or the driver’s own uninsured motorist coverage applies.

If a driver overcorrects to avoid a reckless rider and crashes into another vehicle, the situation becomes more complex. Under California’s comparative negligence rules, fault can be shared. If the driver’s reaction was reasonable under the circumstances, the bulk of the fault may still lie with the e-bike rider.

Who Can Legally Ride an E-Bike?

California divides e-bikes into three classes:

Class 1: Pedal-assist, up to 20 mph. No minimum age. Helmets required under 18.
Class 2: Throttle-assisted, up to 20 mph. No minimum age. Helmets required under 18.
Class 3: Pedal-assist, up to 28 mph. Must be at least 16 years old. Helmets required under 18. Not allowed on most bike paths.

E-scooter riders must be at least 16 and have a driver’s license or permit. Riders under 18 must wear helmets. Sidewalk riding is prohibited.

The Irvine Police Department is urging parents to take a closer look at what they are buying for their kids. Many of the motorized bikes on local roads are not legally considered e-bikes at all. According to a recent social media post from Irvine PD, officers are encountering more juveniles on electric motorcycles—vehicles that require a driver’s license and cannot be used on public roads by unlicensed minors. If the vehicle does not have pedals, it is not an e-bike. It is an electric motorcycle.

Public Warnings and Community Reactions

Community frustration is growing. In addition to the Reddit posts and neighborhood threads, local media is covering the issue. KTLA reported that some cities, including Lake Forest and Irvine, are seeing waves of reckless riding, with residents saying they feel “terrorized” by teens weaving in and out of traffic or riding in large, fast-moving groups.

The Irvine Police Department has issued multiple social media warnings about unsafe e-bike use, street takeovers, and kids riding unregistered and illegal vehicles. These warnings are not about fear—they are about safety. One wrong move can lead to irreversible consequences.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we help drivers and pedestrians recover after life-changing crashes involving reckless e-bike or e-scooter riders. Our team understands how confusing these situations can be, especially when the at-fault rider is a minor. We guide you through every step of the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

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.

May 8, 2025
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palm springs golf course

Ryan Cooper at the Palm Springs Legal Seminar

By Firm News and Celebrations, Personal Injury, Premises Liability

Ryan Cooper, Senior Attorney at Fielding Law, recently attended the Palm Springs legal seminar from May 1–3, 2025. Hosted by the Consumer Attorneys of California (CAOC), Consumer Attorneys of the Inland Empire (CAOIE), and the Orange County Trial Lawyers Association (OCTLA), the seminar is a leading event for personal injury attorneys across California.

Continued Learning

The event featured a wide variety of MCLE (Mandatory Continuing Legal Education) sessions. These covered everything from trial strategies to ethics. Ryan participated to stay current with evolving case law and to sharpen his skills.

Reflecting the firm’s growth-focused mindset, Ryan shared, “Always Be learning!” At Fielding Law, this belief drives our team to constantly improve. It helps us deliver smarter, stronger legal support to every client.

More Than Just Classes

In addition to seminars, the event included many networking opportunities. These gave attorneys time to connect and collaborate in meaningful ways. A golf tournament also took place, providing a relaxed setting for building professional relationships.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we believe that doing right by our clients means never standing still. Our team is deeply committed to continuous growth, compassionate representation, and aggressive advocacy. Attending events like the Palm Springs legal seminar is just one example of how our attorneys stay sharp and current in an ever-evolving legal landscape.

Professionals like Ryan Cooper lead by example. With a solid foundation of legal knowledge, real courtroom experience, and genuine empathy, he and our team fight every day for those whose lives have been turned upside down by injury or loss.

We are not a giant, impersonal law firm. We are a close-knit group of professionals who care—about your story, your recovery, and your future. From the moment you contact us, you are treated with respect, dignity, and personal attention.

Fielding Law was founded on the belief that every client deserves to be heard and helped. That is why we work hard to build real relationships with our clients and deliver real results. Whether we are negotiating with insurance companies or presenting your case in court, our focus remains the same: improving your life and securing the justice you deserve.

Let our knowledge, integrity, and drive work for you. When you hire Fielding Law, you hire a team that will not stop learning, growing, and fighting for what is right.

Call Now for a Free Consultation

Have questions about a personal injury case? Call 833.88.SHARK to speak with a compassionate, skilled attorney today. Your consultation is free, and our team is ready to help.

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

May 7, 2025
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California license plate on the front of a car

California to Change License Plate Sequence in 2026 as Numbers Run Low

By Personal Injury

Why the Update Is Needed

A major California license plate change is coming in 2026. The state is quickly running out of its current license plate combinations, prompting a shift in format for all newly registered vehicles. For decades, California has used the same license plate sequence—but the growing number of cars on the road means a new system is now required.

The Current System Is Maxed Out

Since 1980, California has issued standard license plates in the format of one number, followed by three letters and three numbers (e.g., 1AAA000). This long-standing system is nearing its limit. The California DMV is currently processing plates in the 9UBA000–9UBZ999 range. Once the state reaches 9ZZZ999, the sequence will be exhausted.

This upcoming California license plate change will mark the end of a decades-old format.

What the New Format Will Look Like

The updated sequence will shift to three numbers, three letters, and one number (e.g., 000AAA0). This new configuration will dramatically increase the number of available license plates and support California’s rapidly growing number of vehicle registrations.

According to the DMV, this California license plate change is expected to be fully in effect by 2026, slightly ahead of schedule due to unexpected growth in car sales.

Why Plates Are Running Out Faster Than Expected

A surprising factor behind the plate shortage is the increased pace of new vehicle purchases. Buyers have been rushing to purchase cars due to concerns about potential price increases from international trade tariffs. In fact, new vehicle registrations jumped 8.3% in early 2025, according to the California New Car Dealers Association.

As a result, the state is burning through license plate combinations faster than projected, triggering the need for a California license plate change earlier than originally anticipated.

What Drivers Should Know

If you plan to register a new vehicle in 2026 or later, your plate will likely follow the new 000AAA0 format. While the visual difference is subtle, this California license plate change represents a major behind-the-scenes shift in how the state manages registrations and identification for vehicles.

Looking Ahead

The California license plate change is just one example of how infrastructure must evolve to keep up with growth. As the state moves into this new phase, the DMV will continue updating drivers on when the new format officially launches.

Injured in a Car Accident?

While license plates may be changing, accidents still happen every day on California roads. At Fielding Law, we help injury victims navigate the legal system with compassion and confidence. Whether you were hit by a reckless driver or hurt in a crash involving a new vehicle, our experienced team is here for you.

Call 833.88.SHARK or schedule your free consultation.

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

May 6, 2025
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person sitting on a sofa writing in their pain journal

Why You Should Track Your Pain Daily

By Car Accident, Personal Injury

Why a Pain Journal Matters

After a personal injury, the healing process often involves both physical and emotional pain. A pain journal for injury claim recovery can help document your experience day by day. More than just notes, it can become a valuable part of your case.

Pain is personal, and it changes over time. By tracking your symptoms and how they affect your daily life, you provide clear insight into what you have been experiencing. This can be helpful for doctors, legal teams, and insurance companies.

What to Include in a Pain Journal

A good pain journal should be clear, consistent, and detailed. Try to update it daily or at least several times a week. You do not need to write long entries, but the right details make a difference.

Include the following information

  • Date and Time – Always include when you write

  • Pain Levels – Use a 1 to 10 scale to measure pain

  • Type of Pain – Sharp, dull, throbbing, burning, etc.

  • Activities Impacted – What can you not do now that you could before

  • Emotions or Mood – How the pain affects your mental health

  • Medication or Treatment – Note what helps and what does not

Keeping this record shows patterns. It may also help doctors adjust treatment and help legal teams build your case.

Can a Pain Journal Be Used as Evidence

A pain journal may support your injury claim. While it is not considered formal evidence on its own, it can back up your testimony. It can also help refresh your memory months later.

In personal injury cases, consistent and honest records can help show the severity and duration of your suffering. This includes the impact on your work, sleep, hobbies, and family life.

Your journal may also be useful during settlement talks or court proceedings. It tells your story clearly, in your own words.

A Tool for Healing and Support

Besides legal use, a pain journal offers emotional benefits. Writing helps you reflect and track progress. It helps make the healing journey more visible.

For many people, journaling creates structure in an uncertain time. It helps regain a sense of control when so much feels out of your hands.

Why Choose Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we understand the importance of your story. Pain journals help us better represent the challenges you face. Our team listens, supports, and stands ready to fight for the outcome you deserve.

You will never be treated like a case number. We treat each client with kindness and professionalism, while delivering strong legal representation.

When you are ready to talk, call 833.88.SHARK or reach out to Fielding Law. Let us help you navigate what comes next.

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

May 5, 2025
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Man and Woman Wearing Traditional Mexican Clothes for Cinco de mayo

Stay Safe This Cinco de Mayo

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

Cinco de Mayo is a time for celebration with friends and family, but it is important to keep safety in mind while enjoying the festivities. Here are a few tips for staying safe while you celebrate.

Driving Safely on Cinco de Mayo

  • Use a Designated Driver: If you plan to drink, make sure you have a designated driver. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also great options to avoid driving under the influence.

  • Stay Alert on the Road: Celebrations can make the roads busier, with more impaired drivers. Pay attention to other drivers and follow the rules of the road.

  • Know Your Limits: Even a small amount of alcohol can affect your ability to drive. Remember that the legal limit for BAC is 0.08% in California and Arizona, but it is safer to avoid drinking and driving altogether.

  • Plan Ahead: If you are out late, plan ahead for a safe way to get home. Many cities offer discounts or free rides during major holidays like Cinco de Mayo.

Preventing Accidents While Celebrating

  • Pace Yourself: Drinking slowly and alternating alcoholic beverages with water can help you stay in control and avoid accidents.

  • Supervise Children: Keep an eye on children if you are hosting a party, especially if alcohol is involved.

  • Be Careful While Moving Around: Whether dancing, playing games, or simply enjoying time with friends, be aware of your surroundings to avoid slips, trips, or falls.

  • Avoid Distractions: If you are attending a gathering, avoid texting or driving distracted. If you need to use your phone, pull over to a safe location before checking messages or navigation.

Personal Injury Awareness

With the fun of the celebration, it is also important to be aware of the potential for accidents and injuries.

  • DUI Accidents: DUI-related accidents are common on holidays like Cinco de Mayo. If you have been involved in a DUI accident, it is crucial to contact an experienced attorney to protect your rights.

  • Injuries at Gatherings: Accidents can happen, whether from a fall or another person’s actions. If you are injured at a friend’s home or public event, seek medical help right away. Depending on the situation, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.

Why Hire Fielding Law?

At Fielding Law, we are here to help if you are injured in an accident. Our team has experience handling personal injury cases, from car accidents to slip and falls. We understand how difficult it can be after an injury, and we are dedicated to providing compassionate, capable legal support.

If you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence, do not hesitate to reach out to Fielding Law at 833.88.SHARK to discuss your case. We are here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

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

May 2, 2025
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a bicycle and a motorcycle on the side of the road with a lake in the background

Motorcycle and Bicycle Safety: Look Twice, Save a Life

By Bicycle Accident, Car Accident, Motorcycle Accident

Every year, thousands of motorcyclists and bicyclists are injured or killed in accidents that could have been prevented with greater awareness. One of the most important habits all drivers can develop is to look twice before making a turn or changing lanes. This simple action can save lives and reduce devastating collisions.

Why Motorcycles and Bicycles Are Harder to See

Motorcycles and bicycles are significantly smaller than cars, making them more difficult to spot in traffic. Several factors contribute to their reduced visibility:

  • Blind Spots: Many crashes occur because motorcycles or bicycles are in a driver’s blind spot. If drivers do not take the time to check thoroughly, they may merge or turn directly into a rider’s path.
  • Lane Positioning: Unlike cars, motorcycles and bicycles may position themselves differently within a lane to avoid road hazards, making them less predictable.
  • Speed Misjudgment: Due to their smaller size, drivers often misjudge how fast a motorcycle is approaching, leading to dangerous left-turn accidents at intersections.

How Drivers Can Prevent Accidents

Taking a few extra seconds to be more aware of motorcycles and bicycles can make all the difference. Here are some key tips:

  • Check Twice Before Turning or Changing Lanes: Always double-check your mirrors and blind spots before making a move.
  • Be Extra Cautious at Intersections: Many accidents occur when drivers make left-hand turns without noticing an oncoming rider.
  • Give Riders Space: Do not follow too closely. Motorcycles and bicycles need room to maneuver, especially in poor weather or on rough roads.
  • Use Your Turn Signals Early: Clear communication on the road helps everyone anticipate movements and avoid collisions.
  • Avoid Distracted Driving: Keep your focus on the road. Even a moment of distraction can be deadly for motorcyclists and bicyclists.

Safety Tips for Riders

While drivers have a responsibility to look out for motorcyclists and bicyclists, riders should also take proactive steps to stay safe:

  • Wear Bright or Reflective Gear: Increasing visibility can help prevent accidents, especially at night or in low-light conditions.
  • Make Eye Contact with Drivers: If possible, confirm that a driver sees you before crossing an intersection or merging.
  • Ride Defensively: Assume that drivers may not see you and be prepared to react quickly to sudden lane changes or stops.
  • Use Proper Lighting: Keep headlights, taillights, and reflectors clean and functioning properly.

Why Awareness Matters

A crash involving a motorcycle or bicycle often results in severe injuries or fatalities. Unlike cars, riders do not have the same level of protection, making them more vulnerable to serious harm. By increasing awareness and adopting safe driving habits, both drivers and riders can work together to prevent these tragedies.

Why Hire Fielding Law?

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle or bicycle accident due to a negligent driver, you do not have to face the legal process alone. Fielding Law specializes in personal injury cases and is dedicated to helping victims get the compensation they deserve. Contact Fielding Law today at 833.88.SHARK to discuss your case.

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

May 1, 2025
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Real id website on computer with a person looking in their wallet

REAL ID Deadline: What Drivers Need to Know Before May 7, 2025

By Personal Injury

Top right corner of a Real id to show the star with a red arrow pointing at it.

What is the REAL ID?

The REAL ID is a federally compliant form of identification required starting May 7, 2025. After the REAL ID deadline, travelers flying domestically must show either a REAL ID or another approved document, like a passport, to board a flight or enter secure federal facilities.

REAL IDs are issued by state DMVs and include a visible star in the top right corner of the license or ID card. If your license does not have that star, it will not be accepted for federal purposes after the REAL ID deadline.

Why was the REAL ID law created?

The REAL ID Act was passed in 2005 to increase national security standards for state-issued identification. It was one of the key recommendations from the 9/11 Commission to make it more difficult for individuals to obtain fraudulent IDs.

Who needs to meet the REAL ID deadline?

Anyone aged 18 or older who wants to board a domestic flight or access a federal building or military base must have a REAL ID-compliant license or an alternative approved document. The REAL ID deadline affects all U.S. states, but each state has its own DMV process to issue compliant IDs.

You do not need a REAL ID to:

  • Drive a car

  • Vote in elections

  • Receive federal benefits like Social Security

  • Visit hospitals or health services

What California drivers need to know

California residents must visit the DMV in person to obtain a REAL ID. You will need to provide:

  • One proof of identity (such as a valid U.S. passport or birth certificate)

  • One proof of Social Security number (such as a W-2 or Social Security card)

  • Two proofs of California residency (like utility bills, mortgage statements, or lease agreements)

Visit the California DMV REAL ID page to schedule an appointment or check document requirements.

What Arizona drivers need to know

Arizona residents must also obtain a REAL ID-compliant license, called the “Travel ID,” from the Arizona Department of Transportation. You can apply at authorized MVD offices or third-party providers.

You will need:

  • Proof of identity and date of birth (such as a valid U.S. passport or certified birth certificate)

  • Proof of Social Security number

  • Two documents proving Arizona residency

Visit the Arizona MVD Travel ID page for full instructions and to schedule your appointment before the REAL ID deadline.

What happens if you miss the REAL ID deadline?

If you do not have a REAL ID-compliant license or another acceptable ID by the REAL ID deadline of May 7, 2025, you will not be allowed to board domestic flights or enter secure federal buildings. You will need to use a valid passport or another TSA-approved document, which may be inconvenient for quick trips or last-minute travel.

The earlier you apply, the more likely you are to avoid long DMV wait times or appointment delays as the deadline approaches.

Why the REAL ID deadline matters for accident victims and legal clients

At Fielding Law, we know that many of our clients rely on air travel to visit family, attend court proceedings, or seek medical care. Missing the REAL ID deadline can interrupt those essential activities. We encourage our clients in California and Arizona to meet this requirement early to avoid delays in travel or legal matters.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we believe legal service means more than just filing paperwork. We help clients stay informed and prepared, including staying ahead of changes like the REAL ID deadline. If you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence in a car accident, slip and fall, dog bite, or another type of personal injury, our team is here to support you with empathy, professionalism, and a proven track record of success.

Call 833.88.SHARK or reach out to 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.

April 30, 2025
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