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Tina Westveer

Someones fist punching red metal

Commonly Asked Questions About Assault in Personal Injury

By Assault, Personal Injury

What Qualifies Something as Assault?

Assault occurs when someone intentionally causes another person to fear imminent harm. This does not always require physical contact. Threats or actions that make someone reasonably fear injury can qualify as assault under the law.

What Is the Definition of Assault to Injury?

In a personal injury context, assault refers to acts that lead to physical or emotional harm. The law allows victims to seek compensation for injuries resulting from the assault, including medical expenses, therapy, and pain and suffering.

Is Assault the Same as Physical Harm?

Not always. While assault can involve physical harm, it may also involve threats or attempted harm that causes fear. Physical harm may classify the act as battery, which often accompanies assault in personal injury cases.

What Qualifies as Physical Assault?

Physical assault includes any intentional act that causes bodily injury, such as hitting, slapping, pushing, or using an object to inflict harm. These actions can be grounds for a personal injury claim.

What Are the Three Elements of Assault?

To prove assault in most jurisdictions, three elements must be established:

  1. An intentional act by the defendant

  2. The victim’s reasonable fear of imminent harm

  3. The ability to carry out the threatened act

What Type of Injury Is Assault?

Assault injuries can be physical, emotional, or psychological. Victims may suffer bruises, broken bones, stress, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

What Are the Injuries of Assault?

Common injuries include:

  • Cuts, bruises, or contusions

  • Broken bones or sprains

  • Emotional trauma or anxiety

  • Long-term psychological effects

What Would Be Classified as Assault?

Any action that intentionally threatens or causes harm to another person, creating fear of immediate injury, can be classified as assault.

Does Assault Fall Under Personal Injury?

Yes. Assault in personal injury allows victims to pursue compensation for both physical and emotional damages. Legal claims focus on the harm caused and the defendant’s liability.

What Are the Three Degrees of Assault?

Some states categorize assault into three degrees based on severity:

  1. Simple assault: minor injuries or threats

  2. Aggravated assault: use of a weapon or intent to cause serious injury

  3. Felony assault: severe injuries or attacks on certain protected individuals

Which Type of Injuries Are Considered Simple Assault?

Simple assault typically involves minor physical injuries, such as bruising, or may involve no physical injury at all, as long as there is a reasonable threat of harm.

How Much Can You Get for Suing Someone for Assault?

Compensation depends on the severity of injuries, medical bills, emotional trauma, and lost wages. Every case is unique, so amounts vary widely.

Can You Get Money From Someone Who Assaulted You?

Yes. If the assailant is liable and has resources or insurance, a personal injury claim can provide financial recovery for medical costs, therapy, and other damages.

What Evidence Is Needed for an Assault Case?

Strong evidence can include:

  • Medical records documenting injuries

  • Photos or videos of the incident

  • Witness statements

  • Police or incident reports

  • Any communication or threats from the assailant

Is It Worse to Be Charged With Assault or Battery?

Assault and battery are different legal concepts. Assault usually involves threats or fear of harm, while battery involves actual physical contact. Severity varies depending on the case and jurisdiction.

Is It Worth Suing Someone With No Money?

Even if the defendant lacks assets, pursuing a claim can provide documentation for insurance purposes or future claims. Each case should be reviewed with a personal injury attorney.

Does an Assault as Defined in a Policy Require a Physical Injury?

Not always. Some insurance policies cover assault claims even without physical injury, focusing on fear, emotional distress, or threats of harm.

Why Hire Fielding Law for Assault in Personal Injury?

Navigating an assault personal injury case can feel overwhelming. At Fielding Law, we guide clients through every step, providing support, knowledge, and advocacy. From documenting your injuries to negotiating fair compensation, our team is committed to helping victims recover physically, emotionally, and financially. Call 833.88.SHARK to speak with our team today.

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

December 8, 2025
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Insurance adjuster sitting at desks with headsets on

How to Handle Insurance Adjusters After an Injury

By Car Accident, Personal Injury

If you have been injured, insurance adjusters may contact you soon after your accident. While they may seem helpful, it is important to understand that their goal is to protect the insurance company’s interests—not yours. Knowing how to handle these conversations can protect your rights and your claim.

What Is the Role of Insurance Adjusters?

Insurance adjusters investigate injury claims for insurance companies. They gather information about your accident and injuries to decide how much the insurance company should pay. They may ask detailed questions or request a recorded statement. It is important to be cautious and avoid saying anything that might harm your case.

Be Careful With What You Say

Do not admit fault or minimize your injuries when talking to an insurance adjuster. Simple statements like “I am fine” or “It was my fault” can be used to reduce or deny your claim. Instead, give only basic facts and avoid discussing details of the accident or how you feel.

Avoid Giving Recorded Statements Without Legal Advice

Insurance companies often request recorded statements. These can be risky because your words can be misunderstood or taken out of context. Before providing any recorded statement, contact a personal injury lawyer. A lawyer from Fielding Law can help protect your interests and guide you through the process.

Why Contact Fielding Law?

At Fielding Law, we understand the pressure injured clients face from insurance companies. Our experienced attorneys handle all communication with insurers for you. We focus on getting you the compensation you deserve for your medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. We are here to support you every step of the way.

Keep Records of All Communication

Make sure to document all calls, emails, or letters from insurance companies. Write down dates, times, and details of what was discussed. This information can be crucial if your claim faces challenges or if you need to take legal action.

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

December 5, 2025
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flea market with lots of clothing and trinkets

Flea Market Injury and What to Do Next

By Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Premises Liability

Flea markets are fun places to find unique items and great deals. But what happens if you get injured while shopping? A flea market injury can happen in many ways, and you may be unsure about your rights and the next steps to take. If you get hurt, it is crucial to understand what types of injuries may occur, who could be liable for the injury, and how to proceed with your claim.

Types of Flea Market Injuries

Flea markets can be busy, with vendors and shoppers everywhere. Some common injuries include:

  • Slip and Fall Injuries: Spilled liquids, wet floors, or uneven flooring can cause slips, leading to broken bones, sprains, or head injuries.

  • Tripping Hazards: Items stacked too high or obstacles in walkways may cause a person to trip, resulting in bruises or fractures.

  • Product-Related Injuries: Sometimes, faulty products can cause harm. Whether it is a broken appliance or dangerous item, a defective product can lead to burns, cuts, or other injuries.

  • Falling Objects: If a vendor’s display is not properly secured, heavy or sharp items may fall and injure you.

  • Aggressive Behavior: In rare cases, physical fights or aggressive behavior between vendors or customers could lead to personal injury.

Who Is Liable for a Flea Market Injury?

If you suffer a flea market injury, determining who is responsible can be tricky. Generally, two parties could be held accountable:

  1. The Market Owner: The owner is responsible for maintaining safe common areas, including walkways and parking lots. If a spill or hazard in these areas caused the injury, the market owner might be liable.

  2. The Booth Renter or Vendor: Vendors are responsible for the safety of their booths and the products they sell. If a defective item from their booth causes injury, the vendor could be held liable. If an object falls or a hazard within their booth leads to injury, the booth owner may be at fault.

In some situations, both the market owner and the booth renter could share liability for an accident. For example, if a vendor’s display falls due to a poorly maintained area or unsafe conditions, both parties may be responsible.

Next Steps After a Flea Market Injury

If you are injured at a flea market, follow these steps:

  1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Even if the injury seems minor, visit a doctor to assess your condition and keep a record of your treatment.

  2. Report the Incident: Inform the market owner or manager about the injury immediately. Ask for a copy of the report they file. This document can be important for your claim.

  3. Document the Scene: Take pictures of the area where the injury occurred. Capture any hazards, spills, or obstacles that contributed to your injury. This evidence will help support your claim.

  4. Collect Contact Information: Get contact details from any witnesses and the booth owner or vendor involved. This information may be helpful in case of a legal dispute.

  5. Avoid Giving Statements: Insurance companies may try to get a recorded statement. It is best to wait until you speak with a personal injury attorney before making any statements about the accident.

  6. Consult an Attorney: A lawyer can help you understand your rights and determine who is liable for your injury. An attorney can also guide you through the claims process and negotiate with insurance companies.

Why Hire Fielding Law?

If you have suffered a flea market injury, do not navigate the process alone. At Fielding Law, we fight to hold responsible parties accountable. We work hard to ensure that you get the compensation you deserve for your injury. If you are unsure about how to proceed after your injury, Fielding Law is here to help. Give us a call at 833.88.SHARK or fill out the contact form for a free call back. We are ready to assist you every step of the way.

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

December 4, 2025
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a person sitting at a table writing information from their injury witnesses

Por Qué Son Importantes Los Testigos de Una Lesión

By Español

Cuando sufres una lesión en un accidente, contar con testigos puede marcar una gran diferencia en tu caso. Los testigos proporcionan pruebas cruciales que pueden ayudar a aclarar los hechos y respaldar tu versión de lo ocurrido. Su testimonio puede fortalecer tu reclamación y asegurarte de recibir la compensación que mereces. Aquí te explicamos por  qué los testigos de lesiones son fundamentales para tu caso.   

Aclarar Lo Que Ocurrió

En muchos casos de lesiones personales, lo que ocurrió en los momentos previos al accidente puede estar sujeto a debate. Los testigos de la lesión ofrecen observaciones independientes que pueden confirmar detalles clave. Pueden testificar sobre las lesiones de la otra parte, el estado del lugar y los hechos que llevaron a tu lesión. Sus declaraciones ayudan a establecer los hechos y pueden aportar claridad cuando hay versiones contradictorias.  

Fortalecer Tu Reclamación

Los testigos de una lesión son valiosos a la hora de respaldar tu reclamación. Su testimonio puede validar tu versión del accidente, proporcionando la evidencia necesaria para respaldar tu relato. Esto puede marcar una gran diferencia cuando las compañías de seguros y los abogados revisan tu caso. Sin testigos, probar la responsabilidad puede ser más difícil, lo que podría resultar en una indemnización menor o incluso en el rechazo de la reclamación. 

Reforzar Tu Posición Legal

Los testigos pueden ser especialmente útiles cuando no hay hechos claros ni evidencia concluyente, como en casos de resbalones y caídas o accidentes con fuga. En estas situaciones, los testigos de la lesión aportan las piezas faltantes del rompecabezas. Su testimonio refuerza tu posición y ayuda a demostrar que la otra parte tuvo la culpa. Con un abogado de Fielding Law a tu lado, puedes recopilar y presentar declaraciones de testigos de manera eficaz para construir un caso sólido. 

Consejo Profesional: Anota la Información de Los Testigos de Inmediato

Si estás involucrado en un accidente, habla con cualquier transeúnte o testigo lo antes posible. Obtén sus nombres, datos de contacto y una breve descripción de lo que presenciaron. Pídeles que escriban sus observaciones o, si es posible, que graben una declaración. Esta información puede resultar invaluable su el caso avanza y es necesario contactar a los testigos más adelante. 

Por Qué Contratar a Fielding Law

En Fielding Law, entendemos la importancia de los testigos en casos de lesiones personales. Nuestro quipo con experiencia le ayudara a recopilar las pruebas necesarias, incluyendo la búsqueda de posibles testigos y la correcta documentación de sus declaraciones. Estamos aquí para apoyarle en cada paso del proceso, desde la recolección de evidencia hasta la negociación con las compañías de seguros y la presentación de su caso ante el tribunal. 

Ya sea que haya sufrido una lesión en un accidente automovilístico, una caída o cualquier otra situación de lesiones personales, en Fielding Law estamos listos para ayudarle a proteger sus derechos. Trabajamos arduamente para asegurarnos de que reciba la compensación que merece. Contáctenos hoy mismo al 833.88.SHARK para una consulta gratuita.  

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

December 3, 2025
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babysitter with 2 children

Babysitter Negligence and Child Injuries

By Burn Injury, Personal Injury, Slip or Trip and Fall

When Accidents Happen at Home

Parents trust babysitters, nannies, and in-home caregivers to keep their children safe. However, accidents can still occur. When a child is hurt while under someone else’s supervision, parents may question whether babysitter negligence played a role and what legal options exist.

Common Injuries While in a Babysitter’s Care

Even with precautions, children are prone to accidents. Some of the most common in-home injuries include:

  • Falls from beds, furniture, or stairs

  • Burns from hot liquids, stoves, or curling irons

  • Choking on food, toys, or small household items

  • Poisoning from unsecured medications or cleaning supplies

  • Cuts or scrapes from sharp objects or broken glass

These situations can quickly escalate, especially if the babysitter does not respond appropriately.

Who Is Responsible for a Child’s Injury?

Responsibility depends on the circumstances. If a babysitter leaves a toddler unsupervised in a bathtub, that could be considered babysitter negligence. On the other hand, if a child trips on their own toy while the sitter is watching closely, liability may not rest with the sitter.

Homeowners and renters also share responsibility. If unsafe conditions exist in the home, such as a broken stair, unsecured pool, or lack of childproofing, parents may bear part of the legal liability.

How Parents Can Protect Children and Themselves

Parents can reduce risks by:

  • Childproofing the home with gates, outlet covers, and locks

  • Giving clear safety instructions to the babysitter

  • Providing emergency contacts and medical information

  • Ensuring homeowner’s or renter’s insurance includes liability coverage

  • Hiring caregivers with training, references, and experience

Taking these steps can help prevent injuries and also protect families legally.

When Babysitters Are Not Liable

Not every accident results from babysitter negligence. Children are naturally active, and some injuries happen even when a caregiver is attentive. For example, if a child bumps into a wall while playing tag, the sitter may not be legally responsible.

Do Babysitters or Parents Have a Case?

Determining liability requires a careful look at whether negligence occurred. If the babysitter’s inattention directly caused the injury, a claim may exist. If unsafe property conditions were the primary cause, responsibility may fall on the homeowner or renter. A child injury lawyer can help parents understand if a case is valid.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we know how devastating it is when a child is injured. Our caring and capable team can review your case, explain your options, and fight for justice when babysitter negligence is involved. Call 833.88.SHARK 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.

December 2, 2025
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Young boy playing in a ball pit play place

My Child was Injured at a Fast Food Play Place. Now What?

By Personal Injury, Premises Liability, Product Liability, Slip or Trip and Fall

Fast food play areas can seem like a safe and fun way for children to burn energy, but accidents do happen. From unsafe equipment to poor supervision or inadequate cleaning, a fast food play place injury can leave children seriously hurt. Parents may see a “play at your own risk” sign and assume they cannot take legal action, but that is not always the case.

Does “Play at Your Own Risk” Mean You Cannot Sue?

A business may post a warning sign to limit liability, but it does not give them complete protection. Property owners and businesses still have a legal duty to keep their premises reasonably safe. This includes regular cleaning, maintaining equipment, and addressing hazards they know about or should know about.

If your child suffers a fast food play place injury because of negligence, such as broken equipment or unsafe flooring, that sign does not necessarily block your right to pursue compensation. Courts often view these disclaimers as warnings, not as a way to avoid responsibility entirely.

What You Should Do After an Injury

If your child is injured at a play place, taking the right steps can protect their health and your potential case.

  1. Seek medical attention immediately: Even if the injury seems minor, some issues can develop later.

  2. Report the incident: Notify the manager and request that an official report is made. Ask for a copy.

  3. Take photos: Capture the play area, the hazard, and your child’s injuries.

  4. Collect witness information: Other parents or staff may have seen what happened.

  5. Keep medical records: Save all documents and bills related to your child’s treatment.

  6. Contact a personal injury attorney: An experienced lawyer can help you understand whether negligence played a role and what compensation may be available.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we understand how overwhelming it can feel when your child is hurt. Our team has experience helping families in both Arizona and California navigate injury claims. We treat every client with compassion and fight for accountability from businesses that fail to keep their spaces safe.

Next Steps

Do not assume that a “play at your own risk” sign leaves you with no options. If your child suffered a fast food play place injury, you may still have the right to seek compensation for medical costs, pain, and future care needs. Reach out to Fielding Law through our Contact Us page or call 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.

December 1, 2025
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Personal home and Property with fresh grass laid. Another house in the distance

Injured on a Family Member’s Property: What Are Your Options?

By Personal Injury, Premises Liability

If you are injured on a family member property, it can create stress, confusion, and financial concerns. You may worry about medical bills, feel reluctant to pursue compensation, and fear damaging relationships. Understanding your options will help you act wisely and protect both your health and finances.

Understanding Homeowners Insurance Coverage

When someone is injured on a family member property, homeowners insurance is usually the first place to seek coverage. Most policies include liability protection that can cover medical bills, lost wages, and other related expenses.

Filing a claim with the insurance company does not mean you are suing your family member. The claim is against their insurance policy, not their personal assets, which allows you to seek help without creating family tension.

Why You Are Likely Not Pursuing Personal Assets

In most situations, the family member’s insurance is sufficient to handle the claim. This means you generally do not need to go after their personal assets. Using the insurance ensures that you receive necessary compensation while minimizing financial strain on your loved one.

Steps to Take After an Injury

  1. Seek Medical Attention
    Always prioritize your health. Get proper care and keep records of all treatments and expenses.

  2. Document the Incident
    Take photos of the accident scene and any visible injuries. Write down the circumstances that led to the injury.

  3. Communicate Carefully
    Explain the situation respectfully to your family member. Focus on the need for medical coverage, not blame, and consider having an attorney handle communications if needed.

  4. File an Insurance Claim
    Homeowners’ insurance claims are often straightforward and do not require suing the family member directly.

  5. Consult an Attorney
    Speaking with a personal injury attorney helps you understand your rights, evaluate options, and ensure proper compensation while protecting family relationships.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we help clients navigate injuries on family property with sensitivity and expertise. Our attorneys guide you through insurance claims, advocate for your medical and financial needs, and protect your relationships while ensuring you receive proper care.

Call 833.88.SHARK to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward resolving your situation.

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

November 28, 2025
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Woman looking at an item in a Mall decorated for the holiday

The Holiday Rush and Your Safety

By Car Accident, Personal Injury, Premises Liability, Product Liability, Slip or Trip and Fall
The holiday season brings bright decorations, long lines, and bustling crowds. While shopping at the mall can be exciting, it also increases your risk of accidents. Parking lots fill quickly, escalators and elevators stay busy, and spills or clutter in stores may go unnoticed. Understanding these risks and taking simple precautions can help you avoid holiday shopping mall injuries while still enjoying the holiday spirit.

Parking Lot Dangers

Malls see a surge in traffic during November and December. With more drivers competing for limited spaces, accidents are common. The National Safety Council estimates that tens of thousands of crashes occur in parking lots every year, leading to hundreds of deaths and thousands of injuries.

Safety tips

  • Keep your phone down and your eyes up

  • Use headlights in dim light or at dusk

  • Park farther out and back into your space for safer exits

  • Walk in aisles instead of between cars

These steps help reduce blind-spot risks and make it easier for you to see other drivers and pedestrians. Preventing parking lot accidents is an important part of reducing holiday shopping mall injuries.

Escalator and Elevator Risks

Escalators and elevators are convenient, but they are also a frequent source of holiday shopping mall injuries. Research shows that elevator and escalator accidents kill about 31 people and seriously injure 17,000 in the United States each year.

Escalator safety

  • Hold the handrail and face forward

  • Step off quickly and carefully

  • Carry small children, and avoid bringing strollers on escalators

Elevator safety

  • Allow passengers to exit before entering

  • Keep hands, bags, and clothing clear of doors

  • Step back if doors begin to close unexpectedly

By following these precautions, you can avoid common injuries such as falls, trips, and entrapments.

Slips, Trips, and Falls

Wet tile near entrances, spilled drinks in food courts, or decorations blocking walkways create hazards for holiday shoppers. Wearing shoes with traction and paying attention to flooring transitions can make a difference. If you see a spill or hazard, report it to mall staff so it can be addressed before someone is hurt. Slips and falls are among the leading causes of holiday shopping mall injuries.

Crowd Concerns

Sales events and doorbuster promotions can attract large crowds. When crowds surge, injuries from pushing or trampling may occur. OSHA has even issued guidance to retailers on crowd management during the holidays.

To stay safe, avoid peak rush times, identify alternate exits, and keep children close to you. Staying aware in crowded situations helps lower the risk of serious holiday shopping mall injuries.

Protecting Children at the Mall

Children are naturally curious and may not recognize hazards. Escalators, heavy shelves, and crowded spaces can all be dangerous. Holding a child’s hand, avoiding escalators with strollers, and keeping shoelaces tied are small steps that prevent serious harm. Extra caution can go a long way in protecting children from holiday shopping mall injuries.

What to Do if You Are Injured

If you are injured at a mall, the first step is to get medical care. Report the incident to mall security or store management and request an incident report. Document the area with photos, and ask that surveillance footage be preserved. Avoid discussing fault at the scene.

Who May Be Responsible

Property owners and businesses have a duty to keep their premises safe. Liability may involve failing to clean spills promptly, poorly maintained escalators or elevators, insufficient lighting in parking areas, or inadequate crowd management. In Arizona and California, both of which follow comparative negligence rules, your recovery may be reduced if you are found partially at fault. Acting quickly and speaking with an attorney can help protect your rights after holiday shopping mall injuries.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we understand that an injury can turn a joyful holiday into a stressful season. Our team investigates thoroughly, secures important evidence, and works with experts to build your case. We handle communication with insurance companies and fight for fair compensation for your medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering. We will treat you with professionalism and kindness every step of the way.

For a free consultation, call 833.88.SHARK or contact Fielding Law through our form.

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

November 26, 2025
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Fielding Law Attends OCTLA Top Gun Awards Charity Event

By Firm News and Celebrations, In the Community, Personal Injury

This past Saturday, our attorneys attended the OCTLA Top Gun Awards charity event. The occasion celebrated excellence in the legal community and contributed to a meaningful cause. Each year, OCTLA selects a charity, and this year the Jessie Rees Foundation was honored. The foundation brings hope and encouragement to children facing cancer. It provides support to families during difficult times.

Supporting a Meaningful Cause

Clark Fielding and the Fielding Law team purchased a table and made a donation to support the foundation. Senior Attorney Ryan Cooper contributed a football and jersey signed by NFL star Josh Allen to the silent auction. The generosity of attendees helped raise nearly $240,000 for the Jessie Rees Foundation, allowing the organization to continue its important programs for children and families.

Celebrating Community and Giving Back

For our attorneys, attending the OCTLA Top Gun Awards charity event was more than a night out. It was an opportunity to connect, celebrate the legal profession, and support a cause that makes a real difference. Fielding Law believes in standing beside clients and communities alike, showing that advocacy extends beyond the courtroom.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to negligence, Fielding Law is ready to provide support. Call 833.88.SHARK to speak with our team.

Fielding Law attorneys
November 25, 2025
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People sitting at a table for thanksgiving food

The Most Common Thanksgiving Injuries

By Brain Injury (TBI), Burn Injury, Car Accident, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Premises Liability, Rideshare Accident, Slip or Trip and Fall

Thanksgiving is a holiday filled with family, food, and travel. Unfortunately, it is also one of the most dangerous times of year for accidents and injuries. From crowded roads to busy kitchens, the risks increase dramatically during this season. Understanding the most common Thanksgiving injuries can help you and your family enjoy the holiday safely.

Car Accidents During Thanksgiving Travel

Thanksgiving weekend is one of the busiest travel periods of the year. The National Safety Council estimates that more than 500 people die in crashes during the holiday period each year. With more drivers on the road, long distances, and impaired driving, the chance of a serious collision rises sharply.

Safety Tip: Buckle up, avoid distractions, and never drive under the influence. Planning ahead can reduce your risk of becoming another Thanksgiving travel statistic.

Alcohol-Related Crashes

Thanksgiving Eve, often called “Drinksgiving,” is known as one of the biggest drinking nights of the year. In 2022, about 35 percent of drivers in fatal crashes on Thanksgiving Eve were impaired (NHTSA). These accidents devastate families and often leave victims facing long recoveries.

Safety Tip: Arrange for a designated driver, rideshare, or overnight stay if alcohol will be part of your holiday gathering.

Cooking Fires and Burn Injuries

The kitchen is the heart of Thanksgiving, but it is also a common source of accidents. According to the National Fire Protection Association, Thanksgiving is the leading day of the year for home cooking fires. In 2022, firefighters responded to about 1,610 cooking fires on Thanksgiving Day, nearly four times the daily average. Burns, scalds, and smoke inhalation are among the most common Thanksgiving injuries (NFPA).

Safety Tip: Never leave cooking food unattended, keep flammable items away from stoves, and use caution with turkey fryers.

Slips, Trips, and Falls

Crowded homes, spilled drinks, and cluttered walkways all increase the risk of slips and falls. These accidents can cause broken bones, sprains, or head injuries. Many of these injuries happen when guests are distracted, rushing, or carrying heavy items.

Safety Tip: Clean spills quickly, keep walkways clear, and use proper lighting in entryways and stairs.

Child Injuries During Gatherings

Children are curious and may not notice hazards like hot ovens, sharp knives, or crowded stairways. The excitement of the holiday can make them more prone to accidents. Extra care is essential to keep little ones safe.

Safety Tip: Assign adults to supervise children, keep them away from the kitchen, and ensure stairs and play areas are free from obstacles.

What to Do if You Are Injured

If you suffer an injury over Thanksgiving:

  1. Seek medical attention immediately.

  2. Document the area and your injuries with photos.

  3. Report the incident to the appropriate party, such as a property owner or store manager.

  4. Preserve evidence, including receipts, medical records, and witness information.

  5. Contact an experienced personal injury attorney.

Why Hire Fielding Law

An accident should not overshadow your holiday. At Fielding Law, we understand how overwhelming an injury can be, especially during a season meant for joy. Our attorneys investigate thoroughly, preserve evidence, and communicate with insurance companies on your behalf. We fight for fair compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.

Call 833.88.SHARK today to schedule your free consultation. Let our team provide the professional and compassionate support you need this holiday season.

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

November 25, 2025
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