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Tina Westveer

bicycle in a parking lot with the sun shining through the rear wheel

Arizona Bicycle Crash Guide

By Bicycle Accident

Riding through Arizona can be enjoyable, yet collisions happen often. An Arizona bicycle accident claim may help injured cyclists recover costs after a crash caused by negligence. Because bicycle riders have little protection, injuries are often severe. Therefore understanding your rights is essential after any accident.

Why Bicycle Accidents Happen

Many crashes occur because drivers fail to notice cyclists. In addition, some drivers misjudge distance or speed. Common causes include:

When another party causes a crash, the injured rider may have the right to pursue compensation. However, proving fault requires evidence, documentation, and a clear legal strategy.

Injuries Often Seen in Bicycle Crashes

Cyclists face direct impact with pavement or vehicles. As a result, injuries can be serious and long lasting.

Medical bills can add up quickly. Moreover, some injuries require ongoing care or therapy. An Arizona bicycle accident claim considers both current and future losses.

Understanding Liability in Arizona

Arizona follows a comparative fault system. This means more than one party can share responsibility. Even if a cyclist is partly at fault, compensation may still be available. Because insurance companies often try to shift blame, strong documentation is important.

Evidence that may support a claim includes photos, witness statements, medical records, and police reports. The sooner this proof is collected, the stronger the case may become.

Compensation Available After a Bicycle Accident

A successful claim may cover several types of damages. For example:

Each case is different. Therefore the value of a claim depends on injury severity, recovery time, and long term impact.

Why Hire Fielding Law

Working with Fielding Law can make the legal process less stressful. Our team approaches every case with care, professionalism, and determination. We investigate accidents thoroughly, communicate clearly, and advocate strongly for injured clients. Most importantly, we focus on helping people rebuild after serious injuries caused by negligence.

If you or a loved one were hurt, legal guidance can help you understand your options. Call 833.88.SHARK to discuss your Arizona bicycle accident claim and learn what steps may protect your rights.

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

April 2, 2026
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Fist hitting red shiny side of a vehicle

Arizona Assault Victims Personal Injury Guide

By Assault

Being harmed by someone else is traumatic and confusing. This Arizona assault injury claim guide explains where to find help, what steps protect your health, and how civil injury claims may apply under Arizona law. While criminal cases punish offenders, civil cases focus on your recovery and financial losses.

Immediate Priorities After an Assault

Your safety and health come first. Seek medical care right away even if injuries seem minor. Medical records also document harm, which may support a future injury claim. If possible, take photos of visible injuries and keep clothing or damaged belongings.

Reporting to law enforcement can create an official record. Although reporting is your choice, documentation often strengthens injury claims tied to negligence.

When Someone Else May Be Liable

Not every assault leads to a civil case. However, you may have a claim if another party failed to prevent a foreseeable attack. These cases involve negligence.

Examples of possible liability

  • Apartment complexes without working locks or lighting

  • Bars that overserve aggressive patrons

  • Hotels with broken security gates

  • Event venues lacking trained security

Property owners in Arizona must maintain reasonably safe premises. If they ignore known dangers, they may share responsibility for resulting injuries.

Types of Compensation Available

An Arizona assault injury claim may allow recovery for both financial and personal losses.

Common damages

Each case differs, so compensation depends on evidence, liability, and injury severity.

Arizona Laws That May Affect Your Claim

Arizona follows a pure comparative negligence rule. This means compensation may be reduced if a victim is found partly responsible. Still, partial fault does not automatically prevent recovery.

The state also has a statute of limitations. Most personal injury claims must be filed within two years. Acting promptly helps preserve evidence and witness statements.

Support Resources for Victims

Support can make recovery easier. Consider contacting:

  • Local crisis counseling centers

  • Victim advocacy groups

  • Medical professionals trained in trauma care

  • Legal professionals experienced in injury cases

These resources can assist emotionally, medically, and legally.

Why Hire Fielding Law

Fielding Law approaches assault injury cases with compassion and diligence. Our team understands that victims often face physical pain and emotional stress at the same time. We evaluate whether negligence played a role and explain your options clearly. If you were injured because another party failed to act responsibly, call 833.88.SHARK to discuss your situation.

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

March 31, 2026
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the word Myth made into a sandcastle wiped out by a wave at the beach

Top 10 Personal Injury Myths Exposed

By Personal Injury

Navigating a personal injury claim can feel overwhelming, especially when misinformation gets in the way. Many people rely on outdated or incorrect assumptions that can impact their decisions and recovery.

Understanding the truth behind common personal injury myths can help you protect your rights and make informed choices. Below, we break down the most common misconceptions.

Debunking Personal Injury Myths

Myth 1: Only Severe Injuries Deserve Compensation

Even minor injuries may lead to valid claims. Medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering can still have a real impact on your life.

Myth 2: Quick Settlements Are the Best Option

A fast settlement may seem appealing, but it often undervalues your claim. Taking time allows for a more accurate understanding of your damages.

Myth 3: Personal Injury Claims Always Go to Court

Most personal injury cases settle outside of court. Strong negotiation often leads to fair resolutions without a trial.

Myth 4: Only Car Accidents Qualify

Personal injury law covers many situations. This includes slip and fall accidents, dog bites, and other incidents involving negligence.

Myth 5: You Can Handle It Alone

Handling a claim without legal guidance can put you at a disadvantage. An experienced attorney helps protect your rights and evaluate your claim properly.

Myth 6: You Can Wait to File a Claim

Each state has strict deadlines called statutes of limitations. Waiting too long may prevent you from recovering compensation.

In California, the deadline is generally two years. In Arizona, it is also typically two years. However, exceptions may apply depending on the circumstances.

Myth 7: Insurance Companies Always Offer Fair Settlements

Insurance companies focus on minimizing payouts. Their initial offer may not reflect the full value of your claim.

Myth 8: Personal Injury Claims Are Expensive

Many personal injury firms, including Fielding Law, work on a contingency fee basis. This means you do not pay upfront fees.

Myth 9: Only Physical Injuries Count

Emotional distress and mental suffering can also be part of a claim. These damages are often just as significant as physical injuries.

Myth 10: It Is Too Late to File a Claim

It may still be possible to file a claim depending on your situation. Speaking with an attorney can help clarify your options.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, client service is a priority. Our team approaches every case with professionalism, care, and attention to detail. We understand how overwhelming an injury can feel, and we work to make the process clear and manageable.

We do not believe in one-size-fits-all strategies. Instead, we take the time to understand your situation and advocate for your best interests every step of the way.

Fielding Law Is Here to Help

Do not let personal injury myths prevent you from making informed decisions. The right information can make a meaningful difference in your case.

If you have questions about your situation, contact Fielding Law or call 833.88.SHARK to discuss your options.

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

March 30, 2026
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Student driver sitting in a car

Is My Student Driver Covered on My Insurance in California?

By Car Accident

Learning to drive is an exciting milestone for students and families. At the same time, it raises important questions about insurance and legal responsibility. Many parents assume their student driver is automatically covered, but California student driver insurance laws include key details that can affect coverage after an accident.

Understanding how insurance works for student drivers can help families avoid gaps in coverage and unexpected issues if a crash occurs.

California Financial Responsibility Requirements

California law requires every vehicle driven on public roads to be covered by valid financial responsibility. In most cases, this means liability insurance that meets the state’s minimum requirements. Drivers must be able to show proof of insurance during a traffic stop or after an accident.

The California Department of Motor Vehicles enforces these rules and may suspend driving privileges or vehicle registration if insurance is not in place at the time of a collision.
California DMV financial responsibility requirements

These requirements apply regardless of a driver’s age, including student drivers and learners.

Are Student Drivers Covered While Learning?

In most situations, a student driver with a learner’s permit is covered under the insurance policy for the vehicle they are driving. California follows a permissive use rule, which means insurance usually follows the vehicle rather than the driver.

If a parent or guardian owns the car and carries insurance, that policy typically extends coverage to the student driver as long as they have permission to drive and meet permit supervision requirements.

However, insurance companies often require household members who drive to be disclosed on the policy. If a student driver is not listed when required, coverage disputes can arise after an accident.

What Changes After a Student Gets a License?

Once a student driver receives a provisional or full California driver’s license, insurance expectations change.

At this point, insurers usually require the newly licensed driver to be formally added to the household policy. Premiums often increase because new drivers are considered higher risk. Even so, coverage generally remains in place as long as the student lives at home and is properly listed.

If a licensed student causes a crash while driving a covered vehicle, the vehicle owner’s insurance usually provides primary coverage.

When Does Coverage Shift to the Student?

There are several situations where insurance responsibility may change.

• If the student moves out of the household
• If the student purchases their own vehicle
• If the student regularly keeps a car at college or another location
• If the student is excluded from the family policy

In these cases, the student may need their own insurance policy to meet California financial responsibility laws. Without proper coverage, both the student and vehicle owner may face legal and financial consequences.

Who Is Liable After a Student Driver Accident?

California law may hold multiple parties responsible after a crash involving a student driver. Liability can extend to:

• The student driver
• The vehicle owner
• A parent or guardian who signed the minor’s license application

Insurance companies review these factors closely after an accident. If coverage is unclear or disputed, injured parties may face delays or denials while responsibility is sorted out.

Why Hire Fielding Law

Student driver accidents often involve complex insurance questions and shared liability. Fielding Law understands how California student driver insurance laws and DMV financial responsibility rules affect injury claims. We help injured people identify available coverage, address insurance challenges, and move forward with clarity and care.

If you or your family has been affected by a student driver accident, call 833.88.SHARK to speak with a team that puts people first.

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

March 27, 2026
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inside a retail store looking down and aisle

Injured at a Retail Store in Arizona: Understanding Your Rights

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

If you suffered harm while shopping, an Arizona store injury claim may help you recover losses. In Arizona, stores must keep their property safe. Therefore, when they ignore hazards, they may be responsible for injuries that follow.

Arizona Store Injury Claim Basics

First, stores owe shoppers a duty of care. Next, they must fix dangers or warn people. If they fail, and you get hurt, you may have a valid Arizona store injury claim. In other words, proof of unsafe conditions is key.

Common Store Hazards

For example, many injuries happen because of risks that staff did not address in time. These often include:

  • Wet floors without signs

  • Items left in aisles

  • Loose rugs or mats

  • Falling products

  • Poor lighting

As a result, customers may fall or trip and suffer real harm.

Injuries Often Seen

Most importantly, retail accidents can cause more than small bruises. In fact, many people face lasting pain. Common injuries include:

  • Broken bones

  • Head injuries

  • Back strain

  • Torn ligaments

  • Neck pain

Even if you feel fine at first, symptoms may appear later. So, medical care should come early.

Building a Strong Arizona Store Injury Claim

To clarify, strong proof helps show what happened. Helpful evidence may include:

Likewise, reporting the event right away can protect key details.

Fault Rules in Arizona

Arizona uses a pure comparative fault rule. That means you may still recover damages even if you share some blame. However, your recovery may be reduced by your share of fault.

Why Hire Fielding Law

Fielding Law treats clients with care, respect, and focus. The firm works hard to show how injuries happened and who is responsible. In addition, the team explains each step in clear terms. Their goal is to help injured people move forward with support and strong legal guidance.

When to Seek Help

Finally, time limits apply. Arizona law often allows two years to file a claim. Therefore, acting early can help protect your rights and evidence.

If a store hazard caused your injury, call 833.88.SHARK to discuss your situation and learn about your options.

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

March 26, 2026
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a close up of a persons blue eye

Loss of Vision After an Accident

By Personal Injury

Many people associate personal injuries with broken bones or visible wounds. However, some of the most serious consequences affect the senses. One of the most alarming changes can involve eyesight. Vision loss after injury can disrupt daily life, independence, and overall well-being.

Whether the injury occurs during a car crash, a fall, or another traumatic event, damage to the eyes or brain may alter how someone sees the world. These changes can appear immediately or develop slowly over time.

Understanding how injuries affect vision can help people recognize when something is wrong and seek medical attention quickly.

How Injuries Can Affect Vision

Vision relies on several parts of the body working together. The eyes collect visual information, while the brain processes what we see. Because of this connection, injuries to either the eyes or the brain can lead to vision problems.

Common causes of vision loss after injury include:

  • Head trauma or traumatic brain injuries

  • Direct injury to the eye or surrounding structures

  • Damage to the optic nerve

  • Swelling or bleeding in the brain

  • Facial fractures that affect the eye socket

Even when the eyes appear unharmed, the brain may still struggle to process visual information correctly.

Signs Your Vision May Be Affected

Vision changes after an accident are not always obvious right away. Some symptoms appear gradually, especially if they are related to a brain injury.

Possible warning signs include:

  • Blurred or double vision

  • Difficulty focusing on objects

  • Sensitivity to light

  • Loss of peripheral vision

  • Seeing flashes or floaters

  • Trouble reading or recognizing faces

  • Frequent headaches while using the eyes

These symptoms can interfere with work, driving, reading, and other daily activities.

When Vision Problems Are Linked to Brain Injuries

A traumatic brain injury can disrupt the way the brain processes visual signals. In fact, many people with brain injuries experience some form of visual difficulty.

For example, a person may technically see an object but struggle to judge its distance or movement. Others may feel dizzy or disoriented when their eyes try to track motion.

Because these changes are neurological, they may require specialized treatment such as vision therapy, neurological care, or rehabilitation.

The Emotional Impact of Vision Loss

Sight plays a major role in how people interact with the world. When vision loss after injury occurs, the emotional toll can be significant.

Individuals may experience:

Support from medical professionals, family members, and rehabilitation specialists can make a meaningful difference during recovery.

Vision Changes Can Affect Legal Claims

When vision problems result from someone else’s negligence, the impact may extend far beyond the initial injury. Long term medical care, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments can become necessary.

In personal injury cases, medical documentation often plays an important role in understanding the full scope of an injury. Vision issues may require evaluation from specialists such as neurologists, ophthalmologists, or neuro optometrists.

Each situation is different, and determining how an injury occurred and who may be responsible depends on the specific facts involved.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we understand that injuries can affect far more than what is visible. Changes to your vision can alter your daily life, your work, and your sense of independence. Our team approaches every case with compassion, professionalism, and careful attention to detail. If you or a loved one experienced vision loss after injury due to someone else’s negligence, Fielding Law is here to listen and help you understand your options. Call 833.88.SHARK to speak with a team that prioritizes kindness, clear communication, and client care.

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

March 25, 2026
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injury attorney shaking hands with a client

How Arizona Personal Injury Attorneys Help You

By Personal Injury

If you have been hurt because someone else acted carelessly, understanding what a personal injury lawyer does can help you protect your rights. Many people hear the term but are unsure what these attorneys actually handle or when they should call one. For residents of Arizona, knowing how these cases work locally can make a meaningful difference after an accident.

What Is a Personal Injury Attorney?

A personal injury attorney represents individuals who suffer harm due to negligence. Negligence means another person or business failed to act reasonably and caused injury. These lawyers work within civil law, not criminal law. Their focus is helping injured people recover financial compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost income, and pain.

What They Do for Clients

Many people assume attorneys only appear in court. In reality, most injury claims are resolved outside a courtroom. An attorney often:

  • Investigates the incident

  • Collects evidence

  • Reviews medical records

  • Interviews witnesses

  • Consults experts

  • Calculates damages

  • Negotiates with insurers

  • Files legal claims if necessary

This preparation helps present a strong claim supported by facts and documentation.

Types of Cases They Handle

Personal injury law covers many situations. Common examples include:

Each type has different legal standards. For example, vehicle cases often rely on traffic laws, while premises cases focus on property owner responsibilities.

Arizona Laws That Affect Claims

State rules influence how cases move forward and what compensation may be available.

Comparative Fault Rule

Arizona follows a pure comparative negligence system. An injured person may still recover compensation even if partially responsible. The recovery amount is reduced based on their percentage of fault.

Filing Deadline

Most injury claims must be filed within two years. Missing this deadline can prevent a case from moving forward.

Damage Recovery

Arizona generally does not limit compensation for pain and suffering in injury cases. This can be important for victims with serious injuries.

When to Speak With an Attorney

Legal guidance may be helpful if:

Early legal advice can prevent mistakes that might weaken a claim.

Why Hire Fielding Law

Choosing the right legal team matters. Fielding Law approaches every case with professionalism, compassion, and dedication. The firm focuses on representing injured individuals and prioritizes clear communication, careful case preparation, and strong advocacy. Clients receive support throughout the process so they can focus on recovery while their legal team handles the details.

Contact Fielding Law Today

If you were injured because of someone else’s negligence, you do not have to navigate the legal process alone. The team at Fielding Law is ready to listen, evaluate your situation, and explain your options. Call 833.88.SHARK to discuss your potential claim and learn how they may help you 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.

March 24, 2026
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What Every Personal Injury Claim Must Have

By Assault, Bicycle Accident, Car Accident, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Premises Liability, Product Liability, Slip or Trip and Fall, Wrongful Death

When someone is injured due to another party’s negligence, filing a personal injury claim can help recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A personal injury claim lawyer can help ensure your case meets all the legal requirements necessary for a successful outcome.

Duty of Care

The first requirement is proving that the responsible party owed you a legal duty of care. This duty varies depending on the situation:

  • Drivers: Must follow traffic laws and drive safely.

  • Property owners: Must maintain safe premises, such as keeping floors dry, repairing broken stairs, and installing proper lighting.

  • Businesses: Must provide safe facilities for customers and visitors, including preventing hazards like slippery floors or faulty equipment.

A personal injury claim lawyer can help determine if a duty of care existed in your specific situation.

Breach of Duty

Next, you must show the responsible party breached that duty. Examples include:

  • Texting while driving, running a red light, or driving under the influence.

  • Failing to repair broken stairs, wet floors, or unsafe conditions in a store or hotel.

  • Neglecting to secure equipment or hazards in public spaces.

Your personal injury claim lawyer can collect evidence to prove this breach.

Causation

It is not enough to show negligence; your claim must also prove that the breach directly caused your injury. Examples include:

  • A driver runs a red light and hits your car, causing whiplash.

  • A wet floor without warning signs causes a slip and fall.

  • A loose handrail or broken balcony railing causes a fall.

Medical records, accident reports, photos of the scene, and witness statements are all evidence a personal injury claim lawyer can help organize.

Damages

Finally, a claim must show actual damages resulting from the injury. These can include:

  • Medical expenses: Hospital bills, surgeries, medications, and therapy.

  • Lost income: Time off work due to recovery.

  • Pain and suffering: Physical discomfort, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.

  • Property damage: Repair or replacement costs for personal items, such as your vehicle.

A skilled personal injury claim lawyer ensures all damages are properly documented for your case.

Why Hire Fielding Law

Proving all these elements can be complex, especially when insurance companies try to minimize your claim. Fielding Law provides compassionate, skilled representation to help you meet all legal requirements for your personal injury claim. Our team focuses on protecting your rights so you can focus on healing.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to negligence in California or Arizona, call 833.88.SHARK to speak with a dedicated personal injury claim lawyer who will guide you through the 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.

March 23, 2026
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Travel adventure in an RV on Arizona road. Road rocks in the background

Spring Break Safety Tips for Arizona Travelers

By Bicycle Accident, Car Accident, Motorcycle Accident, Personal Injury

Spring break in Arizona is an exciting time for travelers, but it also comes with crowded highways, busy roads, and higher travel risks. Whether you are driving through cities, desert highways, or mountain routes, careful planning is essential for a safe trip. Following traffic laws, staying alert, and preparing for the unexpected can help reduce accidents and keep your spring break enjoyable.

Why Planning Matters

Traveling during spring break often means navigating unfamiliar roads or driving long distances. Rental cars, new routes, and heavy traffic can increase hazards. Before you leave, plan your route, check traffic conditions, and identify rest stops along the way. Avoiding congested areas and scheduling breaks can prevent fatigue and help you stay focused.

Keep Distractions to a Minimum

Phones, navigation devices, and even conversations can take attention away from the road. Keep phones on silent or use hands-free devices, and make sure the driver is fully focused. Distraction-free driving is especially important on busy highways and in areas with heavy foot traffic.

Take Breaks to Stay Alert

Long drives can be exhausting and increase the risk of accidents. Stop every two to three hours to stretch, hydrate, and rest. If you are traveling with multiple drivers, rotate to maintain alertness.

Use Proper Safety Gear

Seat belts save lives. Make sure all passengers are buckled correctly, including children in car seats or booster seats. If you are driving a rental vehicle, double-check that all seat belts are functional before starting your trip.

Drive Defensively

Spring break traffic often brings impatient or distracted drivers. Stay calm, keep a safe distance, and anticipate sudden stops or lane changes. Defensive driving can help you avoid collisions and respond safely to unexpected situations.

Boating Safety on Arizona Lakes

Many travelers take advantage of boating on Arizona’s lakes and rivers during spring break. Boating can be fun, but it also carries risks. Always wear life jackets, follow speed limits and navigation rules, and avoid alcohol while operating a boat. Check weather conditions before heading out and ensure your vessel is properly maintained. Keep an eye out for swimmers, other boats, and submerged hazards. Safe boating habits can prevent accidents and serious injuries while enjoying Arizona’s waters.

Know Your Rights After an Accident

Even with careful planning, accidents can still happen. If you or a loved one are injured in a car crash, boating accident, or other incident caused by someone’s negligence, knowing your legal rights early is critical. An experienced attorney can help you navigate insurance claims, protect your case, and seek fair compensation for your injuries.

Call Fielding Law at 833.88.SHARK to discuss your accident claim or injuries due to negligence and get guidance from a trusted Arizona personal injury attorney.

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

March 17, 2026
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dog walker with dogs

Who Is Liable for a Dog Bite When the Dog Is With a Caregiver?

By Dog / Animal Bite, Personal Injury

Dog bites can happen in an instant, and the aftermath often leaves victims asking the same question: who is responsible for the injuries? In California, the law makes dog owners strictly liable for bites, but many incidents occur when the dog is with a caregiver such as a walker, sitter, or friend. This raises an important issue: if the owner is not present, can the caregiver be held responsible? Understanding how liability works in these situations can help victims know their rights and determine the best path forward.

Dog Bite Laws in California

Dog bites can be painful, traumatic, and costly. California has one of the strongest dog bite statutes in the country. Under California Civil Code Section 3342, the dog’s owner is strictly liable if their dog bites someone. This means the owner is responsible for damages even if the dog had never bitten before or shown aggression.

But what happens when the dog is not with the owner? Many bites occur when a caregiver, such as a walker, sitter, or friend, is in charge of the dog. In these cases, the law treats liability differently.

Who Is Strictly Liable?

The Dog Owner: The strict liability statute applies only to the legal owner of the dog. Even if the dog was with a caregiver at the time of the bite, the owner remains strictly liable for the victim’s injuries. Ownership carries full legal responsibility under California’s dog bite law.

When Caregivers May Be Liable

Caregivers, keepers, or dog walkers are not automatically held liable under strict liability. However, they may still be responsible under negligence law. Negligence means failing to act with reasonable care in a situation. Examples include:

  • Walking the dog without a leash in a public space

  • Ignoring visible signs of aggression or failing to control the dog

  • Allowing the dog to approach strangers unsafely

  • Leaving gates, doors, or enclosures unsecured

If a caregiver’s actions or inactions caused or contributed to the bite, they may share liability alongside the owner.

Other Parties Who May Be Liable

Beyond owners and caregivers, other individuals or entities could also be responsible if negligence played a role in the attack:

  • Property Owners or Landlords: If they knew a dangerous dog lived on the property and failed to act, they could face liability.

  • Third Parties: For example, a maintenance worker or security company that left a gate open, allowing the dog to escape and bite someone.

When Strict Liability Does Not Apply

There are exceptions and limitations to California’s strict liability law. Dog owners may not be held strictly liable if:

  • The victim was trespassing on private property

  • The victim provoked the dog

  • The dog was a police or military animal performing official duties

  • The injury did not involve a bite

    • California’s strict liability statute generally applies only to dog bites.

    • However, non-bite injuries, such as being knocked over, may still result in liability under negligence or if the dog had known dangerous propensities.

Why Hire Fielding Law

Dog bite cases can become complicated when multiple parties are involved. Owners are always strictly liable, but caregivers and other third parties may also face responsibility if negligence is proven. Sorting out liability requires careful investigation and strong legal guidance.

The attorneys at Fielding Law understand the challenges of dog bite cases in California. Our team provides compassionate, capable representation to protect victims and pursue fair compensation. We handle the legal process and insurance companies so you can focus on recovery.

Call 833.88.SHARK today to discuss your case with an experienced and caring team.

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

March 16, 2026
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