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Tina Westveer

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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person making a list

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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Water background with SCHS Girls Softball Logo

Backing the Lady Tritons for Another Year

By In the Community

At Fielding Law, we are proud to continue our 2026 SCHS Girls Softball sponsorship. This marks our second year cheering on the San Clemente High School Girls Softball team as they showcase energy, discipline, and teamwork on the field.

Building Skills On and Off the Field

Playing softball teaches more than athletic skills. The Lady Tritons gain confidence, resilience, and leadership while balancing school, practice, and competition. Their dedication inspires everyone around them and highlights why community support is so important.

Strengthening Community Through Sports

Our 2026 SCHS Girls Softball sponsorship is about more than placing a logo on a banner. It is about investing in young athletes who are learning life lessons that extend beyond the field. We are honored to help them pursue their goals while fostering pride and teamwork in the San Clemente community.

Follow the Lady Tritons’ season on Instagram to cheer them on and celebrate their wins and milestones.

Who We Are

At Fielding Law, we help people injured due to someone else’s negligence with professionalism, kindness, and determination. Supporting the Lady Tritons reflects the same values we bring to every client: dedication, teamwork, and care.

If you or a loved one has been injured, call 833.88.SHARK to speak with our team.

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

March 12, 2026
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person signing a release agreement form

Understanding Vehicle Release Forms in California

By Car Accident

When someone is hurt in a crash, they may be asked to sign a release. This document can affect who can still be held responsible. In California, this can include both the driver and the vehicle owner. Understanding a California vehicle owner release is important before signing anything.

What Is a Release

A release is a form that gives up your right to seek more money from someone after a claim settles. Insurance companies often ask for it before paying. Once signed, it may limit future claims.

When Owners Are Included

Sometimes a release for a driver also protects the vehicle owner. This often happens if the wording is broad. For example, it may include terms like agents, employees, or permissive users. If the owner is only responsible because they own the car, the release might also apply to them.

Vicarious Liability Explained

Vicarious liability means someone is responsible because of their relationship to the driver. An owner may be liable if they allowed someone else to drive their car.

Negligent Entrustment Explained

Negligent entrustment is different. It applies when an owner lets someone unsafe drive. This could include an unlicensed driver or someone known to drive recklessly. In those cases, the owner may still be responsible even if a driver signs a release.

Why Wording Matters

The exact language in a release can change everything. Some releases cover only the named driver. Others protect several people connected to the vehicle. Small wording differences can affect your rights. Reading carefully before signing is very important.

Why Hire Fielding Law

Fielding Law helps injured clients understand legal documents before they sign them. Our team explains your options in clear terms and treats every client with care and respect. We focus on protecting your interests and helping you move forward after an accident caused by negligence. If you were hurt and have questions about a California vehicle owner release, call 833.88.SHARK to speak with our team.

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

March 11, 2026
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Fielding Law attorneys and Law clerk in the office

Fielding Law Hosts Ballot Measures Signing Event

By In the Community, Personal Injury, Sexual Assault & Abuse

Our Irvine office recently welcomed community members to sign two important statewide ballot measures sponsored by the Consumer Attorneys of California. Attendees took action to protect victims, strengthen public safety, and hold companies accountable.

Ballot Measures Available to Sign

  • People’s Right to Contract With Counsel of Choice Act
  • Sexual Assault Against Rideshare Passengers and Drivers Prevention and Accountability Act

These initiatives ensure that victims of negligence and assault retain access to justice, medical care, and fair compensation. Attendees also learned about deceptive tactics by companies like Uber and why supporting genuine consumer protections is essential.

woman signing ballot initiative. Signature collector is pointing where to sign
Fielding Law attorneys and Law clerk in the office
Clark Fielding signing ballot initiative

How You Can Help

As petitions begin circulating, we want to urge you to be cautious and decline to sign Uber’s petition. Instead, we encourage you to sign petitions to get two initiatives that really do protect consumers on the ballot: People’s Right to Contract With Counsel of Choice Act and the Sexual Assault Against Rideshare Passengers. By doing so, your actions will help ensure that accident victims, and not multi-billion-dollar companies, continue to be protected under California law.

Fielding Law Supports the Community

Fielding Law is proud to host this event and to stand alongside Californians working to protect victims and uphold justice. We thank everyone who participated and helped advance these important protections.

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

Breakfast served at ballot measure signing event
woman signing ballot initiative
Breakfast served at ballot measure signing event
March 10, 2026
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lady justice statue on a desk

How Fault for Injuries Is Determined in Arizona

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

After an accident, one big question comes up right away. Who caused the injury? In many cases, the answer is not simple. Arizona law allows more than one person to share responsibility. Because of this, understanding Arizona fault for injuries can make a major difference in an injury claim.

Arizona uses a rule called pure comparative negligence. Under this rule, each person involved in an accident receives a percentage of fault. Even if someone is partly responsible for their own injury, they may still recover compensation. However, their recovery may be reduced by their share of fault.

How Fault Gets Decided

First, insurance companies review the facts. Then, attorneys may conduct their own investigation. They often look at:

Together, this evidence helps show how the incident happened. As a result, it becomes easier to argue how Arizona fault for injuries should be divided.

Car Crash Example

Two drivers approach an intersection. One driver runs a stop sign. Meanwhile, the other driver travels above the speed limit. A crash follows.

In this situation, both drivers likely share blame. The driver who ignored the stop sign may hold most of the fault. However, the speeding driver may still carry some responsibility. Therefore, any compensation could be reduced by that percentage.

Store Fall Example

A store employee leaves a spill on the floor. No warning sign is placed nearby. Shortly after, a shopper walks through the aisle while looking at a shopping list on their phone and slips.

Here, the store may hold responsibility for the unsafe floor. At the same time, the shopper’s distraction may also play a role. Because of this, both sides may argue over Arizona fault for injuries.

Pedestrian Accident Example

A driver speeds through a neighborhood at dusk. At the same time, a pedestrian crosses the street outside a crosswalk. The driver cannot stop in time.

Both choices matter. The driver’s speed creates danger. However, the pedestrian’s crossing location may also affect visibility and reaction time. So, fault may be shared.

Why Fault Percentages Matter

Fault percentages directly affect money damages. For example, if someone has 20 percent fault, their financial recovery may be reduced by 20 percent. Because of this, insurance companies often try to shift blame. Clear evidence and strong legal arguments can help push back.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, our team approaches every case with care and professionalism. We focus on the facts, we look closely at the evidence, and we work to prevent unfair blame. If you were injured and have questions about Arizona fault for injuries, contact Fielding Law and 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 9, 2026
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