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Fielding Law Earns Best Law Firms® 2026 Recognition

By Assault, Bicycle Accident, Boating Accident, Brain Injury (TBI), Burn Injury, Bus Accident, Car Accident, Catastrophic Injury, Dog / Animal Bite, E-Bikes and E-Scooters, Firm News and Celebrations, Motorcycle Accident, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Personal Watercraft (PWC) Accident, Premises Liability, Product Liability, Public Entity, Rideshare Accident, RV Accident, Sexual Assault & Abuse, Skate & Skateboarding Accident, Ski & Snowboard Accident, Slip or Trip and Fall, Spinal Cord Injury, Train Accident, Truck Accident, Wrongful Death

Fielding Law is proud to be recognized in the 16th edition of Best Law Firms 2026, a respected publication that celebrates excellence in the legal field. Each year, Best Law Firms® identifies the nation’s top-performing firms across 127 practice areas and 188 local jurisdictions.

This recognition follows a rigorous evaluation process that includes client feedback, peer reviews, and performance assessments. In 2026, more than 110,000 clients and 200,000 legal professionals participated. Their input highlights the confidence clients have in firms that consistently deliver exceptional results and service.

What This Recognition Means

Earning a place in Best Law Firms 2026 represents more than an award. It shows our ongoing commitment to ethical, compassionate, and effective legal representation. Furthermore, this recognition reinforces Fielding Law’s mission to serve clients with professionalism and integrity.

Being named among the Best Law Firms 2026 also reflects our belief that true success extends beyond courtroom results. It demonstrates our dedication to improving clients’ lives and upholding the highest standards of care. Each case we handle is guided by empathy, focus, and the pursuit of justice.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, every client receives compassionate support, clear communication, and strong advocacy. Our attorneys take time to understand each client’s experience. We guide clients through the legal process and pursue fair compensation with determination.

Whether you have suffered a personal injury, a vehicle collision, or a wrongful death, Fielding Law is ready to help. Our inclusion in Best Law Firms 2026 reflects our proven record, client trust, and unwavering professionalism.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to negligence, contact Fielding Law or call 833.88.SHARK to learn how we can help you seek justice and move forward.

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

November 6, 2025
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ChatGPT Stops Legal Advice

By Assault, Bicycle Accident, Boating Accident, Brain Injury (TBI), Burn Injury, Bus Accident, Car Accident, Catastrophic Injury, Dog / Animal Bite, E-Bikes and E-Scooters, Motorcycle Accident, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Personal Watercraft (PWC) Accident, Premises Liability, Product Liability, Public Entity, Rideshare Accident, RV Accident, Sexual Assault & Abuse, Skate & Skateboarding Accident, Ski & Snowboard Accident, Slip or Trip and Fall, Spinal Cord Injury, Train Accident, Truck Accident, Wrongful Death

Recent reporting shows that ChatGPT will no longer offer legal or medical advice in the way users may expect. According to an article on Caliber.az, the update to OpenAI’s usage policies was published October 29 2025. 

This development matters more than just a technical policy change: it serves as a reminder that when you face injuries, rights, or liability, you need a trained attorney—not just a chatbot.

What changed in the policy update

The new usage terms state that ChatGPT (and related services) may not be used for the “provision of tailored advice that requires a license, such as legal or medical advice, without appropriate involvement by a licensed professional.” 
The update went into effect on October 29 2025.

Why did this change occur? Several key factors:

  • Growing concern over liability when users rely on AI for high-stakes decisions.

  • The need to clearly distinguish between general information and personalized advice.

  • Regulatory pressure and the desire by OpenAI to define safe boundaries in legal and medical contexts.

In short, the update clarifies that ChatGPT is meant for general information rather than individualized legal strategy. It does not mean AI is completely barred from discussing legal topics—it means AI should not act as your lawyer.

Why this matters

AI tools can be very helpful for learning basic concepts or exploring ideas. However, they cannot replace the role of a licensed attorney in an injury case. Consider these facts:

  • ChatGPT cannot guarantee attorney-client privilege or confidentiality.

  • It cannot negotiate with insurance companies, handle state-specific statutes, or manage future medical needs.

  • The law in California and Arizona for personal injury cases contains complex rules around negligence, damages, statute of limitations, and more.

Why a skilled attorney matters

A licensed attorney does more than give information. They provide strategy, advocacy, and protection:

  • They understand state-specific laws and personal injury regulations.

  • They create legal strategies specific to your injuries and recovery.

  • They handle insurance negotiations to protect your rights.

  • They manage deadlines, paperwork, and complex legal processes.

  • They prevent mistakes that could reduce compensation.

  • They offer guidance, support, and professionalism throughout the case.

How does this affect your case

If you are injured in a bicycle accident, car crash, slip, trip, and fall, or bitten by a dog in California or Arizona, relying on ChatGPT legal advice is risky. Only a qualified attorney can review your case, explain your rights, and help you recover fair compensation.

Why hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, client service is our priority. We improve the lives of each client through ethical and efficient representation. Every case is handled with care, clarity, and commitment. When you need a knowledgeable advocate who cares, we are here.

Call 833.88.SHARK for a free consultation if you or a loved one has been injured.

The end of ChatGPT legal advice highlights a simple truth: AI cannot replace a skilled attorney. Professional guidance protects your rights, guides your case, and maximizes your recovery in personal injury matters.

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

November 4, 2025
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Phone with social media apps

Should Social Media Platforms Be Private After an Accident?

By Assault, Bicycle Accident, Boating Accident, Brain Injury (TBI), Burn Injury, Bus Accident, Car Accident, Catastrophic Injury, Dog / Animal Bite, E-Bikes and E-Scooters, Motorcycle Accident, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Personal Watercraft (PWC) Accident, Premises Liability, Product Liability, Public Entity, Rideshare Accident, RV Accident, Sexual Assault & Abuse, Skate & Skateboarding Accident, Ski & Snowboard Accident, Slip or Trip and Fall, Spinal Cord Injury, Train Accident, Truck Accident, Wrongful Death

Should Social Media Platforms Be Private After an Accident?

After an accident, protecting your social media privacy is more important than most people realize. What you share online can easily be used against you in your personal injury claim. Adjusters, defense attorneys, and even investigators may review your posts for anything that contradicts your statements about injuries or damages.

How Social Media Can Affect Your Case

Photos, status updates, and comments can all be taken out of context. A picture of you smiling at a family gathering could be used to question the severity of your pain. Even casual remarks might seem harmless but can harm your case if they appear inconsistent. Therefore, it is wise to avoid posting about the accident, your injuries, or your recovery process until your case is resolved.

Insurance Companies and Social Media

Insurance companies use social media to gather evidence that benefits them, not you. They may look at your profiles, tagged photos, and comments to find anything that reduces your settlement value. Even private accounts can be accessed through mutual connections or screenshots shared by others.

To protect your social media privacy after an accident, review your privacy settings, limit new friend requests, and think carefully before sharing content.

Tips for Protecting Your Privacy

If you want to maintain control over your online presence, consider these steps:

  • Set all accounts to private and review who can see your posts.

  • Avoid discussing the accident, your injuries, or your case online.

  • Ask friends and family not to tag you in photos or posts.

  • Avoid checking in at locations that could suggest you are active or uninjured.

  • Save all relevant messages or posts in case your attorney needs them later.

By following these steps, you can reduce the risk of your social media activity being used against you.

Social Media Platforms

Social media privacy after an accident can make a significant difference in how your case unfolds. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, LinkedIn, and Snapchat can unintentionally reveal information about your daily activities, friends, or location. Set your accounts to private and limit who can see your posts. Restrict story viewers, turn off tagging, and disable location features to prevent others from connecting you to places or events that could appear inconsistent with your injuries.

Messaging and Communication Apps

Private messages are not always truly private. After an accident, avoid discussing details about your injuries or claim in WhatsApp, Messenger, Telegram, Discord, Reddit, or group chats. Keep usernames anonymous when possible, and remember that messages can easily be screenshotted or shared. It is best to limit conversations about your case to trusted sources and your attorney.

Financial and Payment Apps

Few people realize that payment apps can pose risks to social media privacy after an accident. Apps like Venmo, PayPal, Cash App, and Zelle often show payees, amounts, and comments that may appear public. Set transactions to private, review past activity, and avoid adding descriptive notes that mention outings, purchases, or events. Even small details can be taken out of context by insurance adjusters or defense attorneys.

Location and Fitness Apps

Fitness and location apps can also compromise your privacy. Platforms such as Strava, Fitbit, Apple Fitness, and Google Maps can show your movements, activity levels, and location history. Disable location sharing, turn off automatic check-ins, and review old data to protect your social media privacy after an accident. Limiting this information helps prevent others from making assumptions about your physical condition.

Content Sharing and Storage

Shared albums and online storage can reveal more than you intend. Services like Google Photos, iCloud, Dropbox, YouTube, and Pinterest often include location data and timestamps. Keep albums and boards private, remove metadata from photos, and share only with trusted individuals. This extra step can prevent your personal content from being taken out of context.

Shopping and Membership Accounts

Even accounts unrelated to your case can affect your privacy. Amazon wish lists, gym check-ins, and subscription services can provide insight into your daily life and physical activities. Review what is public and disable any sharing features. Protecting your digital footprint strengthens your overall privacy after an accident.

Email and Cloud Services

Your email and cloud storage may contain sensitive medical or legal information. Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication. Review shared folders, permissions, and forwarding rules to make sure only trusted contacts can access your information.

Quick Checklist After an Accident

  • Set social media accounts to private

  • Restrict story viewers and friends lists

  • Disable location sharing and geotags

  • Make payment app transactions private

  • Review cloud storage and shared albums

  • Enable two-factor authentication

  • Avoid discussing your accident or injuries online

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we understand how social media can impact your personal injury case. Our compassionate attorneys guide clients through every step of the process, including protecting their online privacy. We are committed to helping accident victims in Arizona and California receive fair compensation while safeguarding their rights.

If you have questions about social media privacy after an accident, contact Fielding Law today. Call 833.88.SHARK to schedule a free consultation and let our team provide the support and legal insight you need.

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

October 31, 2025
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duffy boat in the ocean near the harbor

Duffy Boat Accidents in Newport Beach

By Boating Accident, Personal Injury

Newport Beach’s waterways are popular spots for leisurely cruising. Duffy boats, quiet electric-powered boats often used for sightseeing or small group charters, are a favorite of locals and visitors alike. But like any vessel, Duffys are not immune to accidents. When a Duffy boat collision or related injury occurs, questions often arise: who is liable, was alcohol involved, how often do these accidents happen, and do you need special training to drive one?

Common types of Duffy boat accidents

Some accidents we often see with Duffy boats include:

  • Collisions with other boats in crowded harbor waters

  • Crashing into docks or piers during docking

  • Passengers getting hurt from sudden stops or turns

  • Boats breaking down due to poor maintenance

  • People slipping or falling into the water when boarding

Who is liable?

Liability means who is legally responsible after an accident. In Duffy boat accidents, it may be:

  • The driver if they were careless, distracted, or unsafe

  • The rental company if they gave out a boat with problems or failed to explain safety rules

  • The manufacturer if the boat had a design or equipment defect

  • More than one person if both the driver and rental company shared fault

California uses comparative fault. This means more than one party can be held responsible, and damages are divided based on the percentage of fault.

Is drinking allowed on a Duffy boat?

Passengers may drink while enjoying a Duffy boat, but the driver cannot. Under California law, it is illegal to operate any boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The limit is the same as for driving a car, a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 percent. Even below that level, an operator can be charged if their ability to drive safely is impaired.

Boating under the influence, called BUI, can lead to serious penalties. These include fines, possible jail time, and larger consequences if someone is hurt.

How common are these accidents?

Exact numbers for Duffy boat accidents in Newport Beach are hard to find. What we do know is that many boating accidents in Southern California happen in busy harbors like Newport. Accidents often involve rental boats, and alcohol is a common factor.

Do you need training to drive one?

You usually do not need a special license to drive a Duffy boat. In most cases, the rental company will give you a short lesson and safety instructions before you leave the dock. Even though Duffys are simple to operate, safe driving still matters. Paying attention, following harbor rules, and staying sober are key.

Why Hire Fielding Law

If you or a loved one were hurt in a Duffy boat accident, you may feel unsure where to turn. At Fielding Law, we understand how stressful these situations can be. Our team is caring, capable, and ready to guide you through the legal process. We focus on helping injury victims in California and Arizona. 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.

October 3, 2025
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Terms to Know in Personal Injury

By Bicycle Accident, Boating Accident, Car Accident, Personal Injury, Premises Liability, Public Entity

Personal Injury law can seem unnerving at first, especially if it is your first time going through the process. Following an accident that was not your fault, it is completely natural to feel uncertain or overwhelmed about what comes next. That’s why we have created this simple guide to help you understand some of the key terms in personal injury law. Our goal is to make things clearer and help you feel more confident as you move forward in the legal process. Even a basic understanding of terminology can help the path feel a bit more approachable and less overwhelming.

Personal Injury

Negligence

  • Failure to take proper care or act with a level of caution that then results in the harm or damage to another person.
  • Example: A driver is texting while driving and runs a red light, hitting another car. The driver has failed to follow traffic laws and pay attention.

Plaintiff

  • You! The party who initiates a lawsuit by filing a complaint against another party. They are the one bringing the legal action and seeking a remedy for damages, and who we as Fielding Law represent.

Defendant

  • Them! The person, company or organization being blamed or sued in a legal case, whichever party is believed to have acted wrongfully.

Claim

  • When someone seeks legal justice for harm they’ve experienced, often because they are trying to find support, accountability, and sense of closure.

Liability

  • Being legally responsible for causing an accident or harm. They are responsible for covering medical bills, lost wages, or other costs after an accident.

Compensation

  • Money or support that someone receives after being hurt or harmed because of someone else’s actions or negligence. This helps cover things like medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.

Medical Lien

  • Money given to someone who has been hurt or suffered a loss because of another person’s actions.

How Fielding Law Can Guide You

At Fielding Law, we are committed to more than just guiding you through the legal terms. We are here to make sure you feel supported and understood throughout the entire process. If you or a loved one has any questions or concerns, please contact us at 833.88.SHARK. Your peace of mind matters to us and we want you to feel empowered in moving ahead.

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

September 2, 2025
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flag on a boat

Labor Day Safety Matters

By Bicycle Accident, Boating Accident, Burn Injury, Car Accident, Catastrophic Injury, Dog / Animal Bite, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Personal Watercraft (PWC) Accident, Slip or Trip and Fall, Wrongful Death

Injuries on Labor Day Weekend

Labor Day should be a time of rest and celebration. Families in California and Arizona often attend parades, host backyard barbecues, or travel for a last summer getaway. Unfortunately, holiday festivities can create dangerous conditions. When people act carelessly, serious accidents may occur. Labor Day safety is important, but if you were injured because someone else was negligent, you may need legal support.

Common Holiday-Related Accidents

Road Trips and Travel

Holiday weekends often bring heavier traffic. Distracted or impaired drivers increase the risk of serious car, truck, or motorcycle crashes.

Rideshare Accidents

With more people using services like Uber and Lyft during the holiday, rideshare accidents may occur. Victims can face complex insurance issues when injured as a passenger or in another vehicle.

Boating Accidents

Holiday weekends fill lakes and rivers with recreational boaters. Operator inexperience, intoxication, and overcrowded waterways often lead to serious boating collisions.

Personal Watercraft (PWC) Accidents

Jet skis and other PWCs are popular on long weekends. High speeds and reckless operation can cause severe injuries in collisions or ejections.

Parades and Public Gatherings

Large crowds can create unsafe conditions. Pedestrian accidents, trampling, or slip and fall injuries may happen when safety measures are not followed.

Barbecues and Backyard Parties

Premises liability accidents can occur at private gatherings. Guests may suffer burns, slip and fall injuries, or dog bites when property owners fail to provide a safe environment.

Firework Incidents

Fireworks are a tradition during Labor Day weekend. Mishandling them can cause severe burns, vision damage, or traumatic injuries.

Pools and Water Activities

Drownings and near-drowning accidents are a tragic risk at parties or community pools. Lack of supervision or safety equipment often contributes to these accidents.

Labor Day Safety Tips

Even with the risks, there are ways to reduce the chance of an accident.

Driving Safety

Use a designated driver, stay alert on the road, and allow extra time for traffic.

Hosting Safety

If you are hosting, secure walkways, monitor grills and fire pits, and provide a safe space for guests.

Firework and Pool Safety

Follow local firework regulations, supervise children near water, and require life jackets during boating or pool activities.

Why Hire Fielding Law

If your holiday weekend ended with an injury, you do not need to face the aftermath alone. Fielding Law is here to provide guidance, support, and advocacy. Our team listens to your story, investigates the cause of your accident, and works to hold the negligent party accountable. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll an injury brings, and we are committed to standing by your side.

Call 833.88.SHARK today for a free consultation with Fielding Law.

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

August 29, 2025
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Can AI Replace Lawyers?

By Assault, Bicycle Accident, Boating Accident, Brain Injury (TBI), Burn Injury, Bus Accident, Car Accident, Catastrophic Injury, Dog / Animal Bite, E-Bikes and E-Scooters, Motorcycle Accident, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Personal Watercraft (PWC) Accident, Premises Liability, Product Liability, Public Entity, Rideshare Accident, RV Accident, Sexual Assault & Abuse, Skate & Skateboarding Accident, Ski & Snowboard Accident, Slip or Trip and Fall, Spinal Cord Injury, Train Accident, Truck Accident, Wrongful Death

Can You Replace a Lawyer With AI?

Artificial intelligence tools like Chat GPT are gaining popularity. They can draft documents, explain legal concepts, and summarize laws. Some people now believe they can replace a lawyer with AI and handle legal issues on their own. This is misleading and risky. Legal cases require human advocacy, judgment, and compassion that AI cannot provide.

What AI Can and Cannot Do

AI Can:

  • Explain general legal ideas and procedures

  • Summarize statutes and regulations

  • Draft basic templates or documents

  • Suggest broad next steps

AI Cannot:

  • Provide personalized advice specific to your case

  • Investigate evidence or interview witnesses

  • Navigate complex California or Arizona laws

  • Represent you in court or negotiate with insurers

  • Offer strategy, empathy, or advocacy

Attempting to replace a lawyer with AI may result in missed deadlines, weak claims, or reduced compensation.

What Fielding Law Provides That AI Cannot

Personalized Legal Guidance

Our attorneys study every detail of your case and create strategies tailored to your circumstances.

Thorough Investigation

We gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build strong claims that AI tools cannot manage.

Negotiation and Advocacy

We handle insurance companies and opposing parties with proven negotiation skills and legal experience.

Courtroom Representation

If needed, we fight for you in court, file motions, and adjust strategies in real time.

Compassionate Support

We understand how stressful injuries are. Our team provides clear communication and empathy throughout the process.

Why Real Lawyers Matter

Legal representation requires strategy, adaptability, and human insight. Trying to replace a lawyer with AI leaves you without proper protection.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we combine experience, compassion, and skill to protect your rights. We fight for fair compensation and support clients every step of the way. Technology can assist, but it cannot replace a real lawyer.

Call 833.88.SHARK today for a Free Consultation and experience the difference of true legal advocacy.

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

August 29, 2025
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Why Accidents Spike in the Summer

By Boating Accident, Car Accident, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Personal Watercraft (PWC) Accident, RV Accident

Summer is a time for travel and making memories, but it also means heavier traffic on California and Arizona roads. With school out and many families taking well-earned time off, the highways get busier than usual. It is important to stay patient and alert so everyone can get to where they are going safely.

Specialty Crafts

RV Accidents – RVs are heavier, slower to stop, and harder to maneuver than regular vehicles. Drivers who are unfamiliar with operating a large vehicle may misjudge turns, fail to check blind spots, or cause rollover accidents. Inexperienced drivers also may not account for height restrictions when traveling under bridges or through tunnels.

Boating Accidents

Arizona and California both see a surge in water activity during summer. Lakes, rivers, and coastal areas are packed with boats. Many watercraft operators are inexperienced or under the influence, leading to collisions and serious injuries.

Personal Watercraft PWC

In addition to boats, the waters of California and Arizona waters are often crowded with personal watercrafts like Jet Skis. Many of these are operated by younger individuals who may lack experience, especially since they do not ride them year-round.

Teen Drivers

Summer break means more teen drivers are behind the wheel, and with limited experience, they pose a higher risk on the road. Teens are also highly impressionable and often model their driving habits after their guardians. When parents engage in risky behaviors, they set a dangerous example that their kids are likely to follow.

Road Construction

During the summer months, longer daylight hours and favorable weather create ideal conditions for road construction. While this work is important, it can lead to increased traffic, frustrated and impatient drivers, and new traffic patterns causing accidents.

Pedestrians

Summer brings festivals, concerts, and outdoor markets, which creates more foot traffic in cities. Popular destinations like Disneyland surge visitors, resulting in more drivers on the road traveling to and from these attractions.

Impaired and Distracted Drivers

Summer gatherings like parties and backyard barbeques a beloved tradition, but they often coincide with an increase in drunk or impaired driving, especially during nighttime hours. Additionally, many drivers become distracted by looking at their phones for directions or texting and calling for more information.

Why Hire Fielding Law

The attorneys at Fielding Law know that accidents can turn your life upside down, especially during what should be a relaxing time of the year. Whether you have been injured as a driver, pedestrian, or passenger, you do not have to do the aftermath alone. Contact us today at 833.88.SHARK for compassionate and professional guidance.

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

August 5, 2025
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4th of july fireworks in the sky

4th of July Arizona Safety Tips

By Boating Accident, Burn Injury, Personal Injury

Arizona’s stunning landscapes make it a prime destination for 4th of July celebrations. From backyard barbecues to boating on Lake Havasu and hiking in Sedona, Arizonans love to get outdoors. However, the state’s extreme heat and fire-prone conditions pose serious risks during the holiday. Here is how to enjoy your Independence Day safely in Arizona.

Extreme Heat Precautions

Arizona temperatures often exceed 110°F during July.

  • Stay hydrated with water and electrolyte drinks.

  • Avoid peak heat hours (usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.).

  • Wear light, breathable clothing and apply SPF regularly.

  • Know the signs of heatstroke: confusion, dry skin, dizziness, and fainting.

Wildfire Risk and Firework Laws

Fireworks can spark dangerous wildfires in Arizona’s dry climate.

  • Only use fireworks legally and in permitted areas.

  • Consider attending public firework shows instead of lighting your own.

  • Always have water or a fire extinguisher ready.

  • Check local fire restrictions before lighting anything.

Boating and Water Safety

Arizona’s lakes are packed during the 4th. Be safe while boating:

  • Wear life jackets — it is the law for children under 12.

  • Never operate a boat under the influence of alcohol.

  • Watch for other watercraft and swimmers.

  • Supervise kids at all times near the water.

Avoid Slip and Fall Hazards

From wet pool decks to uneven desert terrain, slips can lead to serious injuries.

  • Use caution around pools and patios.

  • Wear appropriate footwear when hiking or walking near water.

  • Property owners should ensure walkways are well-lit and maintained.

Why Hire Fielding Law

When accidents happen due to someone else’s negligence — whether from unsafe property conditions, reckless boating, or unlawful fireworks — Fielding Law is here to help. Our team understands the unique risks Arizona residents face during the holiday and offers compassionate, experienced representation.

Call for a free consultation at 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.

June 27, 2025
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people boating in the ocean just off the share of california

How to Avoid a 4th of July Boating Accident in California

By Boating Accident, Catastrophic Injury, Personal Injury, Personal Watercraft (PWC) Accident, Spinal Cord Injury, Wrongful Death

California beaches, lakes, and bays are top destinations for 4th of July fun. From jet skiing in Marina del Rey to tubing in Big Bear, the water is a huge part of the holiday. But crowded waterways, inexperienced operators, and risky behaviors can quickly turn fun into injury. If you experience a 4th of July boating accident in California, knowing what to do next is key.

Common 4th of July Water-Related Accidents

Here are the most frequent causes of injuries on California waters during the holiday:

  • Jet Ski Collisions: Personal watercraft accidents often result from inexperience, excessive speed, or alcohol use. Riders can be thrown from the craft or crash into swimmers, boats, or docks.

  • Boating Accidents: A 4th of July boating accident in California is more likely due to crowded lakes and bays. Crashes, capsizing, or propeller injuries are common, often caused by distraction or impairment.

  • Tubing and Towing Incidents: When boats tow tubes or wakeboarders, miscommunication or erratic driving can cause serious crashes into docks, rocks, or other boats.

  • Parasailing Injuries: Faulty equipment, strong winds, or improper technique can lead to dangerous falls or hard landings.

  • Swimming Injuries: Lack of supervision or diving into shallow water can result in catastrophic injuries, especially spinal damage.

Water Safety Tips for Californians

To reduce the risk of injury and avoid a 4th of July boating accident in California, follow these safety tips:

  • Wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket at all times.

  • Never operate a watercraft under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

  • Use a spotter when towing tubes or wakeboarders.

  • Choose parasailing companies that are licensed and maintain their equipment.

  • Avoid jumping into unknown or shallow water.

  • Watch for other boaters, swimmers, and floating debris.

  • Follow all posted signs and boating laws in California.

What to Do If You Are Injured

If someone’s negligence leads to your injury during a 4th of July boating accident in California, protect your rights with these steps:

  1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately – Your health comes first. Even minor injuries may become serious.

  2. Document the Scene – Take photos of the area, watercraft, injuries, and any equipment involved.

  3. Collect Witness Information – Get names and contact details of anyone who saw the accident happen.

  4. File a Report – Notify the Coast Guard, marina staff, or local law enforcement.

  5. Avoid Posting on Social Media – What you share online can be used against you later.

  6. Call Fielding Law – Speak with a personal injury attorney who understands 4th of July boating accident cases in California. We will evaluate your case and guide you through your legal options.

Why Hire Fielding Law?

At Fielding Law, we understand how quickly a fun day on the water can turn tragic. If you or a loved one was involved in a 4th of July boating accident in California, our experienced team is here to help. We provide compassionate and capable legal support for injury victims statewide.

Call 833.88.SHARK or contact us to schedule 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.

June 26, 2025
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