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Catastrophic Injury

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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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two e-bikes sitting on cement with trees in the background

Scottsdale Cracks Down on E-Bikes for Minors

By Bicycle Accident, Catastrophic Injury, E-Bikes and E-Scooters, Personal Injury, Wrongful Death

Scottsdale’s New E-Bike Law Aims to Protect Minors from Serious Injuries

In response to a troubling rise in child injuries, the City of Scottsdale has enacted a new ordinance aimed at improving safety among young riders. The Scottsdale e-bike minor law restricts the use of certain high-powered e-bikes and electric motorcycles on city property for anyone under the age of 16.

The ordinance takes effect July 31, 2025. It prohibits minors from operating Class 3 e-bikes and electric motorcycles—both of which can reach speeds of over 20 miles per hour—on any city-owned property. The new law also requires retailers to affix permanent classification stickers and provide safety education materials at the time of sale.

Phoenix Children’s Hospital has seen a rise in e-bike-related injuries in recent months, many involving minors. Doctors are reporting serious injuries such as head trauma, internal injuries, and multiple fractures—often caused by seemingly minor incidents like potholes, unexpected stops, or collisions with dogs.

How the Scottsdale E-Bike Minor Law Relates to Personal Injury Claims

Though e-bikes may appear to be recreational, they function more like motorized vehicles. When minors operate these high-speed devices, especially without helmets or supervision, the risk of serious injury increases.

From a legal standpoint, the Scottsdale e-bike minor law signals that the city is taking these risks seriously. If a child is injured while violating the ordinance—or due to the negligence of another rider, motorist, or manufacturer—there may be grounds for a personal injury claim.

Some of the most common causes of e-bike injuries include:

  • Riding without proper safety gear

  • Lack of adult supervision

  • Equipment malfunction or misuse

  • Unsafe road or sidewalk conditions

  • Collisions with vehicles, bicycles, or pedestrians

If a parent allows a minor to use a Class 3 e-bike in violation of the new law, that decision could also impact liability and insurance coverage in the event of an accident.

What Makes E-Bike Injuries Different from Bicycle Accidents

Unlike traditional bicycles, e-bikes are heavier and faster, which often leads to more forceful impacts. Minors may not fully understand how to control or stop the device under pressure. Even seemingly low-speed crashes can cause life-altering injuries.

This is why the Scottsdale e-bike minor law matters. Much like height or age limits on amusement park rides, these rules are in place to prevent predictable and avoidable harm.

Why Hire Fielding Law

If your child has been injured in an e-bike accident, you may feel overwhelmed—physically, emotionally, and financially. At Fielding Law, we understand the complexities of accidents involving minors and motorized vehicles. Our team can help you determine who is legally responsible, whether it involves a negligent driver, a defective product, or unsafe city infrastructure.

We are proud to help clients throughout Arizona and California and are committed to improving the lives of our clients through ethical and efficient legal representation.

To speak with a caring and capable personal injury attorney, contact Fielding Law or 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.

July 31, 2025
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Busy road at night with streaks of tail lights and headlights

Wrong-Way Drivers on the 73 Toll Road

By Car Accident, Catastrophic Injury, Wrongful Death

The 73 Toll Road runs through the heart of Orange County, California, connecting beach cities like Newport Beach and Laguna Beach to inland hubs like Irvine and Aliso Viejo. While it offers a fast and scenic alternative to crowded freeways, it has also become a troubling hotspot for wrong-way drivers on the 73 Toll Road. This alarming trend puts countless lives at risk — with wrong-way crashes causing nearly 300 deaths statewide each year in California alone. Nationally, these crashes are three times more likely to result in fatalities than other accidents, making awareness and prevention critical for all drivers.

Map of 73 Toll RoadA Growing Problem in Orange County

Wrong-way drivers on the 73 Toll Road in Orange County have become an alarming and all-too-frequent issue. This toll road, which runs from San Juan Capistrano through Laguna Niguel and Newport Beach, has seen a disturbing rise in wrong-way crashes—many of them deadly.

The consequences of wrong-way driving can be catastrophic, often resulting in head-on collisions that leave families shattered. These types of accidents tend to happen at high speeds and with little or no time for the other driver to react.

Where and Why It Happens

Several areas along the 73 Toll Road are considered high-risk for wrong-way drivers, including:

  • The Bison Avenue interchange

  • Bear Street exit and entry points

  • The connection between SR-73 and I-405

These incidents often occur late at night or early in the morning and are frequently linked to:

  • Impaired driving (alcohol or drugs)

  • Poor signage visibility at night

  • Driver confusion, especially for tourists or new drivers

Although the road itself is generally well-maintained, even one missed sign or moment of confusion can lead to devastating consequences.

What Drivers Can Do

Protecting yourself starts with awareness. Here are a few safety tips if you regularly use the 73 Toll Road or similar highways:

  • Stay alert, especially at night or during early morning hours

  • Avoid the fast lane — wrong-way drivers often appear in the far-left lane

  • Use your high beams when appropriate to increase visibility

  • Make sure you have a dash cam to document what happens in case of an incident

  • Call 911 immediately if you see a car going the wrong direction

You cannot predict the actions of others, but you can be prepared to respond quickly.

How Authorities Are Responding

Local agencies and The Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) have taken steps to reduce wrong-way incidents. Their initiatives include:

  • Installing “Wrong Way” and “Do Not Enter” signs with high-visibility reflectors or lights

  • Adding red pavement markers to warn drivers if they are heading in the wrong direction

  • Deploying wrong-way vehicle detection systems that notify authorities in real-time

  • Increasing patrols and DUI checkpoints near problematic interchanges

Despite these improvements, wrong-way crashes continue to threaten drivers in Orange County. Community education and infrastructure upgrades remain key to preventing future tragedies.

Why Hire Fielding Law

If you or a loved one has been injured by a wrong-way driver on the 73 Toll Road, you do not have to navigate the aftermath alone. Fielding Law understands the physical, emotional, and financial toll of catastrophic crashes. Our team is experienced, compassionate, and committed to holding negligent drivers accountable.

We have helped countless families seek justice, and we are ready to help you too. Call 833.88.SHARK or contact Fielding Law today 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.

July 24, 2025
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OCTLA The Gavel magazine article about negligent security lawyer

$2M Negligent Security Settlement Featured in OCTLA’s The Gavel

By Catastrophic Injury, Firm News and Celebrations, Personal Injury, Premises Liability

Securing Justice in the Face of Violence

At Fielding Law, we are proud to share an important case result. Attorneys Clark Fielding and Ryan Cooper recently secured a $2,000,000 policy limit settlement. The case involved a client who was shot multiple times at a California laundromat.

OCTLA The Gavel Sumer 2025 Article Cover in the mediaThis powerful case result was featured in the Summer 2025 issue of OCTLA’s The Gavel Magazine. The article recognized the legal skill and commitment it took to achieve justice for our client.

A Life Changed in Seconds

Our client was doing his laundry when a verbal disagreement with another customer escalated. That customer pulled a gun and shot our client both inside and outside the laundromat. Although he miraculously survived, the road to recovery was long. He spent months in hospitals and rehabilitation centers, facing physical and emotional trauma.

When the Shooter Has No Assets

The shooter was judgment-proof—meaning he had no assets to pursue in a civil case. Many firms may have stopped there. But we looked deeper.

Neglected Property. Preventable Harm.

We launched an aggressive investigation and uncovered something critical: this laundromat was not safe—and had not been for a long time. Records showed a history of violent crimes both in the laundromat and in the adjacent parking lot. Even more shocking, the property had been purchased by a developer years before the shooting, with plans to redevelop the area. But while awaiting redevelopment, the site had been left to deteriorate into a slum-like condition.

Shifting the Focus—and the Liability

By highlighting years of neglected security, ongoing criminal activity, and a foreseeable threat of violence, our team was able to shift the liability away from the shooter and hold the property owner responsible. The result: a $2,000,000 settlement—the maximum available under the policy.

A Future Rebuilt

Thanks to this outcome, our client will now receive lifetime payments through an annuity and trust. This ensures access to long-term care, financial stability, and the ability to rebuild his life after a tragedy that never should have happened.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we are not afraid to take on tough cases—and we never stop at the obvious. Our team understands the deep responsibility that comes with representing injured clients, and we pursue every angle to make sure justice is served.

If you or a loved one has suffered due to negligent security or premises liability, contact Fielding Law or call 833.88.SHARK to speak with an attorney who will truly fight for you.

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

July 17, 2025
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Roadway Workers at a jobsite with safety gear on

How Tow Truck Drivers and Roadside Workers Can Stay Safe on Roadways

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

Working on or near roadways can be a dangerous task for tow truck drivers, landscapers, and other professionals. With traffic speeding by, it is essential to follow strict safety protocols to minimize the risk of accidents and injuries. Understanding roadway safety for workers is crucial to keeping workers safe while they perform their duties near moving vehicles. The following safety tips are essential for anyone working in these high-risk environments.

1. Always Wear High-Visibility Clothing

Wearing high-visibility clothing is crucial for any worker near traffic. Bright vests, jackets, or shirts with reflective strips ensure you are seen by drivers, particularly during low-light conditions like dawn or dusk. Roadway safety for workers starts with visibility, so make sure to wear proper gear to reduce the chances of an accident.

2. Use Warning Signals and Signs

Proper warning signals, such as reflective cones, flares, and signage, are essential for alerting drivers about work zones. Tow trucks should activate emergency lights, and workers should set up warning triangles or other visibility markers to enhance safety. Implementing these roadway safety for workers measures is key to reducing the risk of accidents.

3. Work with a Spotter

Whenever possible, have a spotter to help guide traffic and ensure workers remain safe. Spotters can signal when it is safe for workers to proceed and warn them of approaching vehicles, improving overall safety.

4. Set Up a Safe Work Zone

Creating a safe work zone is crucial to keeping workers out of harm’s way. Positioning vehicles in such a way that shields workers from traffic and using barriers or other protective measures can greatly reduce the risk of accidents.

5. Keep a Safe Distance from Moving Traffic

Workers should remain as far from moving traffic as possible. When working on the shoulder of a highway or in active lanes, it is vital to stay within designated work zones and avoid standing in traffic lanes.

6. Ensure Vehicles Are Properly Equipped

Tow trucks and other work vehicles should have safety features like reflective materials, warning lights, and properly secured equipment. These measures help make workers more visible and reduce the risk of accidents.

7. Always Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Maintaining awareness of the environment around you is essential for staying safe. Workers should avoid distractions and continuously monitor approaching vehicles, potential hazards, and any changes in road conditions.

8. Ensure Proper Training

Proper training is essential for anyone working on or near roadways. Tow truck drivers, landscapers, and other professionals should be well-versed in traffic laws, safety protocols, and how to handle hazardous situations.

9. Avoid Working in Bad Weather

Bad weather significantly increases the risk of accidents. Tow truck drivers and roadside workers should avoid working during conditions like heavy rain, fog, or snow unless absolutely necessary. When working in adverse weather, extra precautions should be taken.

10. Be Prepared for Emergencies

Emergencies can arise, even with all precautions in place. Tow truck drivers and roadside workers should be familiar with emergency first-aid procedures and know how to respond in case of an accident.

Why Hire Fielding Law?

If you are a roadside worker who has been injured in an accident while working near traffic, Fielding Law is here to help. Our attorneys are experienced in handling traffic-related injury cases and can help you secure the compensation you deserve. We understand the unique risks that come with working on or near roadways, and we are dedicated to helping you through the legal process. Contact us today at 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.

July 11, 2025
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blinding bright headlights

Blinded by Bright Headlights?

By Bicycle Accident, Car Accident, Catastrophic Injury, E-Bikes and E-Scooters, Motorcycle Accident, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Truck Accident, Wrongful Death

Are Headlights Getting Brighter?

Yes—they are. It is not your imagination. Modern vehicles, especially larger trucks and SUVs, are now equipped with brighter, bluer, and higher headlights than in the past. A recent KTLA article highlighted how road glare from these newer lights is becoming a growing safety concern for drivers across the country.

Older vehicles used halogen bulbs emitting about 1,000 lumens. But starting in the early 2000s, many manufacturers switched to LED headlights, which can emit 4,000 lumens or more. Aftermarket bulbs—often installed without proper regulation—can reach 10,000 lumens or higher.

The result? Drivers are facing intense glare, often directly at eye level, thanks to the combination of brighter lights and elevated vehicle designs.

What Makes These Lights So Dangerous?

According to experts like Jillian Young from AAA Northeast, the intense bluish-white hue of LEDs is more irritating to the human eye than traditional warmer halogen lights. This discomfort increases the chance of temporary blindness, slow reaction time, and even complete disorientation—especially on dark roads.

These lights are often angled higher, especially on large SUVs and lifted trucks, causing them to shine directly into the eyes of other drivers. Oncoming glare can cause:

  • Difficulty seeing lane lines or obstacles

  • Delayed reaction time

  • Temporary visual impairment or “flash blindness”

  • Increased risk of veering or swerving into other lanes

Can You Sue Someone for Blinding You with Headlights?

In both California and Arizona, it is difficult—but not impossible—to bring a claim based solely on being blinded by someone’s headlights. The core issue comes down to negligence.

To bring a successful lawsuit, you must prove:

  1. The other driver acted unreasonably or unlawfully (such as installing illegal aftermarket lights or failing to dim high beams).

  2. Their action caused a crash or injury.

  3. You suffered actual harm or damages as a result.

For example, if a driver had illegally bright or modified headlights, and that glare caused you to crash or collide with another object, you may have a valid claim. You could potentially file against:

  • The other driver, if their headlights were modified or improperly used.

  • A third party, such as a body shop that installed unapproved lighting equipment.

  • Even vehicle manufacturers, if defective headlights contributed to a hazardous situation (in rare product liability cases).

However, glare-related crashes are often complex. You will need strong evidence, such as:

  • Eyewitness statements

  • Dash cam footage

  • Vehicle inspection records

  • Police reports noting lighting modifications or misuse

These claims can also become more viable if the other party was cited for violating headlight laws.

What Do California and Arizona Laws Say?

California and Arizona both have headlight laws, but enforcement is inconsistent.

In California:

  • Vehicle headlights must not project “a glaring light” to oncoming drivers.

  • Headlight height and brightness are regulated, but aftermarket LED kits can often slip through inspections.

  • Police may cite drivers for violations of Vehicle Code § 24409 (failure to dim high beams) or § 25950 (improper lighting).

In Arizona:

  • A.R.S. § 28-947 requires proper adjustment of headlights to prevent glare.

  • Brightness limits exist, but there is no widely enforced lumen cap.

  • Modifying factory lighting beyond its intended performance may be illegal.

Despite these laws, citations for overly bright headlights are rare, and few cases make it to court unless a crash occurs.

How to Protect Yourself

While the law slowly catches up to lighting technology, you can take steps to protect yourself:

  • Avoid looking directly at oncoming lights. Instead, focus slightly right of the road.

  • Use night mode or anti-glare coatings on mirrors or glasses.

  • Dim your rearview mirror when bright lights are behind you.

  • Install a dash cam in case you are injured and need evidence of excessive glare.

  • Have your eyes checked regularly. Nighttime sensitivity can worsen with age or uncorrected vision problems.

Why Hire Fielding Law

If you were involved in a crash and believe glare or illegal headlights played a role, we are here to help. At Fielding Law, we investigate every detail—down to the headlight specifications and the manufacturer’s compliance.

Our team understands how devastating glare-related collisions can be. We will work with accident reconstruction experts and lighting specialists if necessary to build a strong case.

Call 833.88.SHARK or contact Fielding Law today for a free consultation. We are here to fight for your rights and help you recover after a serious crash.

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

June 30, 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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A person in a car touching a phone

California’s No Touch Phone Law

By Car Accident, Catastrophic Injury, Personal Injury, Truck Accident, Wrongful Death

What Is California’s No Touch Phone Law?

California’s No Touch Phone Law makes it illegal for drivers to hold and operate a phone while driving, unless the device is configured for hands-free use. Even briefly holding and using a phone to check directions or notifications is considered a violation. Phones must be mounted, and use must remain hands-free, with only a single swipe or tap allowed. This rule applies whether the driver is moving or stopped in traffic.

When Did the Law Go Into Effect?

California’s no touch phone law became more strictly enforced in June 2025 after a California Court of Appeal decision clarified the intent behind California Vehicle Code § 23123.5. The court confirmed that even briefly holding a phone while driving—without actively texting or calling—violates the law. This ruling strengthened existing distracted driving laws and eliminated common loopholes.

What Does the Law Mean for Drivers?

Drivers in California must now comply with the following:

  • Phones must be mounted on the dashboard or in a lower corner of the windshield

  • Only a single tap or swipe is permitted while driving

  • Voice commands may be used for calls, texts, and navigation

  • Drivers under 18 are prohibited from using phones at all, even hands-free

  • Emergency calls (such as to 911) are permitted

The law applies on all roads, whether you are driving on the freeway, stopped at a light, or in a parking lot.

Penalties and Consequences

The law is subject to primary enforcement, which means law enforcement can stop and cite a driver solely for violating this rule. The penalties include:

  • A base fine of $20 for a first offense, which typically increases to more than $160 after fees

  • A base fine of $50 for subsequent offenses, which may exceed $280 in total cost

Multiple offenses can also result in points on your license and increased insurance premiums.

Why Is This Law Necessary?

Distracted driving is one of the top causes of traffic collisions in California. Research shows that taking your eyes off the road for just five seconds while driving at highway speed is like driving the length of a football field blindfolded. Even quick glances at a phone can lead to serious injuries or fatalities.

Smartphones have made multitasking common, but the risks on the road are too high. This law exists to reduce crashes, protect lives, and make the rules around phone use clear and enforceable.

Tips to Stay Compliant

  • Mount your phone before you begin driving

  • Use hands-free features like voice assistants or Bluetooth

  • Enable “Do Not Disturb While Driving” mode

  • Set your GPS and music before starting the car

  • Pull over safely if you need to interact with your phone

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we represent individuals who have been injured by distracted drivers throughout California and Arizona. If you were hurt in a car accident caused by someone using their phone behind the wheel, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.

We approach every case with professionalism, care, and a clear focus on helping our clients move forward. You do not have to face the insurance companies or legal process alone.

Contact Fielding Law at 833.88.SHARK today 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.

June 25, 2025
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An elderly couple in a convertible car

Elderly Drivers and Cognitive Health

By Car Accident, Catastrophic Injury, Wrongful Death

As people age, their ability to drive safely can be impacted by mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or other age-related changes. While many older adults can still drive safely, studies show that cognitive decline can increase risks on the road. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drivers aged 65 and older were involved in 20% of all fatal traffic crashes in 2022. Understanding these risks is critical to keeping everyone safe.

How Cognitive Impairment Impacts Driving

Driving requires quick decision-making, focus, and coordination. Mild cognitive impairment can affect:

  • Reaction Time: Slower responses to traffic signals or sudden hazards.
  • Memory: Difficulty remembering routes or understanding road signs.
  • Judgment: Poor decisions in high-stress situations, such as merging or navigating intersections.

Recognizing these signs early can help families address potential dangers before accidents occur.

Testing and Awareness for Elderly Drivers

Recent studies suggest that routine testing for cognitive decline could be beneficial for elderly drivers. These tests may help identify those at higher risk of causing accidents. Recommendations include:

  • Regular screenings during Medicare visits.
  • Discussions between families and healthcare providers about driving safety.
  • Adjustments to driving habits, such as avoiding night driving or busy highways.

When an Accident Happens

Unfortunately, not all risks can be prevented. If an elderly driver causes or is involved in an accident, the consequences can be severe, including:

  • Injuries to pedestrians or other drivers.
  • Extensive medical bills and vehicle damage.
  • Emotional trauma for all parties involved.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we understand the complexities of accidents involving elderly drivers. Our experienced team is here to help you navigate the legal process with compassion and care. We work tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve, whether for medical bills, lost wages, or emotional suffering.

If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident caused by or involving an elderly driver, call Fielding Law at 833.88.SHARK for a free consultation. Let us handle the legal side so you can focus on recovery.

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

April 22, 2025
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