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Car Accident

cars driving on a highway at nighttime

Injured in a Nighttime Accident?

By Bicycle Accident, Car Accident, Pedestrian Accident

Why Are Nighttime Accidents So Dangerous?

Driving at night significantly increases the risk of a serious crash. Even though fewer vehicles are on the road after dark, studies show that a nighttime accident is more likely to result in serious injury or death. Reduced visibility, fatigue, and a higher rate of impaired or reckless drivers all contribute to the danger.

In both California and Arizona, nighttime crashes are especially common on freeways, poorly lit streets, and rural roads.

Common Causes of Nighttime Accidents

There are many factors that make nighttime driving risky. Some of the most common causes of nighttime accidents include:

When visibility drops and reaction time is reduced, even a small mistake can lead to a serious crash.

What This Means for You

If you were hurt in a nighttime accident, do not assume it is harder to prove what happened. Whether you were rear-ended, sideswiped, or hit while walking, an experienced attorney can investigate the circumstances and determine who is responsible.

You may be entitled to compensation for:

It is important to act quickly. Evidence such as roadway lighting, surveillance video, and witness statements can disappear if not preserved early in the process.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we understand the serious impact a nighttime accident can have on your life. We have experience with low-visibility crash cases and know how to uncover details others might miss. From the moment you call us, our team will work to protect your rights and hold the negligent party accountable.

We approach every case with compassion, professionalism, and a strong commitment to results.

If you or a loved one was injured in a nighttime accident,call 833.88.SHARKor contact Fielding Law 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.

social media influencer standing in the middle of a street with a sunset in the background

Chasing the Perfect Image: Influencer Street Accident

By Car Accident, Catastrophic Injury, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Public Entity, Wrongful Death

According to KTLA, Instagram personality Ben Bruno recently posted a video of a Beverly Hills street where at least 22 people were posing in the middle of traffic. Vehicles slowed or stopped as influencers turned a public street into a photo backdrop.

While it may look entertaining online, standing in an active roadway is extremely dangerous. Roads are meant for vehicles and safe pedestrian crossings, not for photo sessions. When those rules are ignored, an influencer street accident can occur with serious injuries or worse.

Why This Behavior Creates Risk

Influencers and onlookers may not realize the danger of blocking traffic. Drivers cannot always anticipate sudden obstacles in the road. Common risks include:

Even a single mistake can cause catastrophic injury.

Who Could Be Liable in a Collision

If a driver struck someone blocking the street, several parties could face responsibility.

The influencer or organizer

Directing people into a street may be considered negligent. Organizers can be held responsible for creating unsafe conditions that could lead to an influencer street accident.

The participants

Those posing in the road may share fault for their own injuries. California and Arizona follow comparative negligence rules, which allow liability to be divided among multiple parties.

The driver

A driver who was speeding, distracted, or failing to follow traffic laws could also be found at fault.

The city

In limited cases, the city might share liability if poor signage, lighting, or lack of enforcement contributed to the danger. Government liability is often difficult to prove.

The Legal Risks of Dangerous Content

Influencers may underestimate the legal and financial consequences of content created in unsafe places. Blocking a public street can result in fines, civil lawsuits, or criminal charges. Insurance companies may deny coverage if conduct is reckless or illegal.

For drivers, these situations create unfair risk. Even a careful driver may face a costly legal dispute if they hit someone standing in the road, creating an influencer street accident scenario.

Why Hire Fielding Law

If you or a loved one has been injured, you need guidance from an experienced accident lawyer. Fielding Law has helped thousands of injured people in California and Arizona with compassion, professionalism, and determination. Our team will investigate your case, determine liability, and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Call 833.88.SHARK today to schedule 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.

woman driving car down a gravel road

Breast Implant Rupture During Car Accident

By Car Accident, Personal Injury, Product Liability

Understanding Implant Rupture After a Collision

Breast implants are medical devices, not indestructible shields. When a person with implants is involved in a car accident, particularly a high-impact crash, the pressure or blunt force trauma may lead to a breast implant rupture. This situation is not only physically painful but can also cause emotional distress, unexpected medical bills, and long-term complications.

If you or a loved one experienced a breast implant rupture during an auto accident, you may be eligible for compensation. This is especially true if the accident was caused by another driver’s negligence or if faulty seatbelt or airbag deployment worsened the injury.

Common Causes of Breast Implant Ruptures in Accidents

While breast implants are tested for durability, they are not immune to trauma. Some leading causes of rupture in a vehicle crash include:

  • Airbag deployment that compresses the chest

  • Seatbelt force against the implant area

  • Direct trauma from hitting the steering wheel or door

  • Pre-existing manufacturing defects in the implant

These injuries can go unnoticed immediately after a crash. It is important to seek both emergency and follow-up care to catch hidden injuries.

Signs Your Implant May Have Ruptured

Symptoms may vary based on whether the implant is silicone or saline. In either case, if you suspect a rupture after an accident, seek medical evaluation right away.

Common signs include:

  • Sudden change in breast shape or size

  • Hard lumps or rippling under the skin

  • Pain, tenderness, or burning

  • Swelling or inflammation

  • Asymmetry or deformity

Saline implants typically deflate quickly and are absorbed by the body, making them easier to identify. Silicone implant ruptures, on the other hand, may take longer to notice and could result in scar tissue buildup or chronic pain.

Who Is Liable for the Injury?

Liability in cases involving breast implant ruptures during auto accidents can be complex. You may have more than one claim:

  • The negligent driver who caused the crash

  • The auto manufacturer if defective airbags or seatbelts were involved

  • The implant manufacturer if the product failed prematurely

To determine liability and calculate fair compensation, a qualified attorney will conduct a thorough investigation, review your medical records, and consult experts if necessary.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

If your implant ruptured in a crash, you may be able to recover compensation for:

These cases often involve both personal injury and product liability claims. A skilled attorney will help you pursue the full compensation you deserve.

Why Hire Fielding Law

Fielding Law is not a massive, impersonal firm. We are dedicated, experienced attorneys who truly care about our clients. We understand the physical and emotional toll these injuries can take. If you are dealing with breast implants rupturing during an auto accident, our compassionate legal team will guide you every step of the way.

We fight for your recovery so you can focus on healing. Call Fielding Law at 833.88.SHARK or contact us through our online form 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.

Tailgate bbq grill

Injured at Tailgate Party?

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

The Fall season brings a sense of renewal and tradition as many head back to school. It is a time with familiar celebrations like the excitement of tailgate parties before college football games. With all the fun, it is important to stay mindful of your safety and understand who might be responsible if someone gets hurt. As grills, games, and gatherings increase, so does the risk of slip and falls, vehicle accidents, and alcohol related injuries.  

What is a Dram Shop? 

  • A dram shop is a business that sells alcohol and may be legally responsible if they serve someone who poses dangers to others after drinking. 

What are Social Host Laws? 

  • These laws hold the person hosting the tailgate responsible if they knowingly provide alcohol to underage guests or know about underage drinking on site. 

Common Misunderstandings of Tailgate Party Injury 

If you or a loved one is injured due to someone’s irresponsible drinking, many people assume the intoxicated individual is solely responsible. However, others — such as the bar, restaurant, or party host who served them — could also be legally responsible. You may be able to pursue a claim not just against the drunk individual, but also against the business or host who served them.  

Documenting the Scene 

After a tailgate party injury—as with all accidents— documenting the scene is essential. The details you write down shortly after the accident can make a significant difference in building a strong case. Here are a few things to document: 

  • Date and time of the incident  
  • Location of the tailgate  
  • The specific type of accident that occurred  
  • Description of all the non-visible injuries  
  • Photos of the visible injuries  
  • Who was involved, and if there were any witnesses  
  • The company or the name of the individual who was giving out the alcohol  

Why Hire Fielding Law 

Party, tailgating accidents can turn a sharp turn south when alcohol is involved. These situations can be overwhelming and confusing, especially when there are unanswered questions about who is liable. At Fielding Law, we understand the emotional toll an accident can take on a person. Our priority is to carry the legal burden so you can fully focus on healing. We are here to support you. Reach out to us for your free consultation today to see if you have a claim.  

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

two people exchanging insurance

What if the Other Driver Does Not Have Insurance?

By Car Accident

What If the Other Driver Does Not Have Insurance?

Getting into a car accident is stressful enough. But finding out the other driver does not have insurance? That adds another layer of frustration and confusion.

If this has happened to you, you are not alone. Many drivers in California and Arizona face this issue every day. Luckily, there are ways to protect yourself and still pursue compensation.

What Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?

If the at-fault driver does not have insurance, your own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage can help. This is optional insurance in both California and Arizona, but it is highly recommended.

Uninsured motorist coverage can help pay for:

Even if the driver took off and you cannot identify them, UM coverage may still apply. That is called a hit-and-run—and it is more common than people realize.

What If You Do Not Have UM Coverage?

If you do not have uninsured motorist coverage, your options become more limited. You might be able to sue the at-fault driver personally, but that only works if they have assets or income to recover from—which is often not the case.

This is why having a compassionate and capable attorney matters. At Fielding Law, we can help explore every possible path forward. That includes checking for:

  • The driver’s employer’s liability (if they were working at the time)

  • A household policy that might apply

  • Any other negligent parties, such as vehicle manufacturers or road contractors

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we understand how upsetting it can be to learn that the other driver has no insurance. We take the time to understand your case and explain your options clearly. Our team is not a massive firm with gimmicks—we are real people who care about results and relationships.

We handle every case with professionalism, kindness, and strategy—and you will always know where your case stands.

You Are Not Alone

If you were hurt in a crash and the other driver was uninsured, let us help. Call 833.88.SHARK or contact Fielding Law today for a free consultation. You deserve answers—and we will work hard to help you find them.

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

OCTA bus on the road at night time

Did You Know OCTA Does Not Have UM/UIM for Riders?

By Bus Accident, Car Accident, Personal Injury

What Happens if You Are Injured on an OCTA Bus?

Passengers injured while riding an Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) bus are often surprised to learn that OCTA does not provide uninsured motorist (UM) or underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage. This becomes a serious issue when a negligent third-party driver causes a crash and lacks adequate insurance.

OCTA is a public transit agency that self-insures against liability, but that coverage only applies in limited situations—primarily when OCTA itself is responsible. It does not cover situations where a third-party driver is at fault and lacks insurance.

What This Means for You as an Injured Passenger

If you were injured in a bus crash and the at-fault driver had no insurance—or not enough—you may not be able to recover compensation through OCTA. You cannot file a UM/UIM claim through OCTA because that protection is not available to passengers.

You may feel stuck, but you still have options. Your recovery may depend on your own insurance policy, identifying all liable parties, and navigating strict rules for filing claims against government agencies. That is where legal experience can make a difference.

Your Options After an OCTA Passenger Accident

If you were injured as a passenger in a crash involving an OCTA bus, here is what you can do:

  • Review Your Own Auto Policy
    If you carry UM/UIM coverage, it may apply—even if you were not in your own vehicle. You could be covered as a named insured or a resident relative.

  • File a Claim Against the At-Fault Driver
    If the third-party driver had insurance, you can pursue a personal injury claim directly against their policy.

  • Investigate Fault by OCTA
    If the bus driver caused or contributed to the crash, or if there were safety failures (like poor maintenance), you may be able to file a claim against OCTA. These claims are time-sensitive and must follow strict procedures under California’s Government Claims Act.

  • Talk to an Attorney Immediately
    Without UM/UIM through OCTA, your path to compensation may be complex. Speaking with a lawyer can help you avoid delays, protect your rights, and identify every possible source of recovery.

Why Hire Fielding Law

When public transportation accidents happen, especially those involving UM/UIM gaps, the legal path is not always clear. At Fielding Law, we understand the frustration and confusion passengers experience after an OCTA accident. Our experienced team is ready to help you sort through your options and build a strategy that fits your case.

We treat every client with empathy and respect while delivering aggressive representation where it matters most.

You do not have to figure this out on your own. Call 833.88.SHARK or contact Fielding Law today.

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

cluster of cars on a roadway after a crash

Who Is at Fault in a Chain-Reaction Crash?

By Car Accident

What Is a Chain-Reaction Accident?

A chain-reaction accident happens when three or more vehicles crash in a sequence, usually triggered by a single initial collision. These accidents are common on busy roads and freeways in California and Arizona, especially during stop-and-go traffic, bad weather, or distracted driving.

For example, one driver may rear-end another vehicle, pushing it into the car ahead—causing a domino effect of impacts. This often leaves victims confused about who is responsible and how to recover for their injuries or damaged property.

What Makes These Cases Complicated?

Unlike a two-car crash, a chain-reaction accident involves multiple drivers, varied speeds, and split-second timing. Because of this, determining fault requires close analysis of:

Fault is not always placed on just one driver. It is possible that multiple drivers contributed to the crash—for example, a distracted driver may have caused the first impact, but a speeding or tailgating driver behind may have made the situation worse.

What This Means for You

If you are injured in a chain-reaction accident, your situation may feel overwhelming. Insurance companies often shift blame or delay payment while they “investigate.” You may not even know which driver’s insurance should cover your losses.

You could be entitled to compensation for:

The key is getting a clear picture of who was negligent—and having a legal team that can fight for your rights.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we know how chaotic chain-reaction accidents can be. These cases demand detailed investigation, quick action, and a legal strategy tailored to your injuries and the facts of the crash.

We treat every client with care and compassion while providing strong legal representation throughout the process.

If you were injured in a chain-reaction accident, do not try to handle it alone. Call 833.88.SHARK or contact Fielding Law 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.

101 Freeway sign at night with cars driving under it

Danger Zones on the 101 Freeway: What You Need to Know

By Car Accident

Crash Statistics on US 101

In 2022, there were approximately 1,050 accidents reported on the 101 Freeway in the Los Angeles and San Fernando Valley areas. Of those, 743 involved injuries, and two were fatal. Around 60% of those crashes were rear-end collisions, which is significantly higher than California’s average. Other common crash types included sideswipes and vehicles hitting fixed objects.

These numbers highlight how frequently serious accidents occur on this busy stretch of highway and the unique risks drivers face.

Crash Hotspots Along US 101

Certain locations along the 101 are known for frequent and severe crashes. One of the most dangerous intersections is at US 101 and Wellsona Road in northern San Luis Obispo County. In just five years, this stretch saw 16 crashes, 14 multi-vehicle incidents, and 3 fatalities. Caltrans has since approved an undercrossing project at this intersection to prevent further loss of life.

Santa Clara County, especially around San Jose, is home to one of the deadliest segments of the 101 in the country. In southern California, dangerous stretches include the downtown Los Angeles corridor and the Hollywood area, particularly near the 405 and 134 merge points.

These crash zones are often characterized by high-speed traffic, sudden lane changes, and limited visibility during peak hours or foggy mornings.

Why These Locations Are So Dangerous

Several factors contribute to the danger along the 101 Freeway:

  • Rush-hour congestion, especially Friday afternoons

  • Frequent merging and lane changes near interchanges

  • Coastal fog and low visibility, particularly in northern or coastal regions

  • Construction zones that cause sudden slowdowns or confusion

  • Distracted and fatigued drivers commuting long distances

Each of these increases the chance of a high-speed, multi-vehicle collision—often with life-changing consequences.

What This Means for You as an Injured Freeway Crash Victim

If you have been hurt in a 101 Freeway accident, your case may involve multiple drivers, disputed fault, and complex insurance negotiations. These crashes often involve:

  • Chain-reaction collisions

  • Commercial vehicles or rideshare drivers

  • Speeding or aggressive lane changes

  • Delayed medical symptoms like whiplash or head trauma

Your claim may include compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care needs. But to recover fully, you will need strong evidence and someone who understands the unique nature of freeway crashes.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we have experience handling complex freeway crash claims, including those involving high-speed collisions, multiple vehicles, and difficult insurance negotiations. We know how to secure and preserve the evidence that matters, work with experts to reconstruct accidents, and fight back when insurance companies try to shift blame.

We are kind, capable, and committed to helping you move forward with clarity and confidence.

If you were injured in a 101 Freeway accident, call 833.88.SHARK or contact Fielding Law today.

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

dark tint windows in a white car with a brick wall behind the car

Arizona Drivers and Dangerously Dark Window Tint

By Car Accident, Motorcycle Accident, Pedestrian Accident, Truck Accident, Wrongful Death

Why Dark Tint Is a Real Danger

Arizona’s sunny skies make tinted windows a popular choice for drivers. While legal tint offers comfort and protection from the sun, overly dark or illegal tint can become a serious safety hazard. When tint blocks too much visibility, it can lead to preventable crashes, especially at night or in low-light situations.

If you were injured in a crash and believe that dark tint played a role, Fielding Law is here to help. We represent injury victims across Arizona and know how to hold negligent drivers accountable.

How Dark Tint Causes Accidents

Excessively dark tint can reduce a driver’s ability to clearly see their surroundings. It can also make it harder for others to anticipate what the driver will do. Some common dangers include:

  • Difficulty seeing pedestrians or cyclists, especially in crosswalks

  • Blind spots when changing lanes or backing up

  • Delayed reaction times due to limited visibility

  • Inability for others to make eye contact with the driver

  • Poor night visibility leading to swerving or late braking

Even small lapses in visibility can lead to life-changing injuries when drivers cannot react in time.

Arizona Window Tint Laws

Arizona law allows for window tint, but only within certain limits. The law focuses on how much visible light must pass through the glass, which is known as visible light transmission (VLT).

  • Front side windows must allow at least 33% of light in

  • Windshields may only have non-reflective tint above the AS-1 line

  • Rear side and rear windows can be darker but must not be overly reflective

  • Reflective tint must reflect less than 35% of light

If a driver violates these laws and causes an accident, the tint violation may be used as evidence of negligence.

Can You Sue After a Tint-Related Crash in Arizona?

Yes. If another driver’s excessively dark or illegal tint contributed to the crash, you may have a valid personal injury claim. Examples include:

  • A driver did not see you while making a turn

  • A driver backed out and hit your vehicle or bike due to blocked rear visibility

  • A driver ran a red light or failed to yield because their side view was obstructed

Any of these situations could point to tinted windows as a contributing factor.

How Fielding Law Investigates These Cases

When dark tint causes an accident, our team at Fielding Law acts quickly to preserve and examine all evidence. We may:

We build a case that shows the full impact of the other driver’s choices.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we know that even small vehicle modifications—like overly dark tint—can lead to serious consequences. When you are injured, you need a legal team that treats you like a person, not a file number. Our attorneys are kind, professional, and relentless in protecting your rights.

If you believe dark tint caused or contributed to your injuries, we are ready to help.

Call 833.88.SHARK or contact Fielding Law for a free consultation today.

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

open books on a table

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.

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