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Uber lighted sign in a car window

Federal Jury Verdict in Uber Sexual Assault Case

By News, Personal Injury, Rideshare Accident, Sexual Assault & Abuse

A federal jury in Phoenix, Arizona found Uber liable for a passenger’s sexual assault by one of its drivers. The victim, Jaylynn Dean, was awarded $8.5 million in compensatory damages for the harms she suffered. (courthousenews.com) This decision came after a nearly four‑week bellwether trial in a consolidated multi‑district litigation that includes more than 3,000 similar lawsuits.

The jury concluded that Uber could be held responsible for the driver’s actions under the legal theory of apparent agency, meaning a reasonable passenger could believe the driver was acting on Uber’s behalf. The panel declined to award punitive damages and rejected other claims brought by the plaintiff.

Evidence and Key Trial Highlights

During the trial, evidence showed Uber’s internal safety report documented thousands of sexual assault complaints against drivers, and the plaintiff’s legal team argued the company failed to adopt reasonable safety measures that might have prevented the attack. The lawsuit alleged that the company’s screening and hiring practices were insufficient to protect riders, and that Uber marketed itself as a safe choice despite known risks.

The jury was instructed on the apparent agency claim and found in favor of the plaintiff on that basis, even though Uber classifies its drivers as independent contractors.

Company Statement and Planned Appeal

In response to the verdict, Uber stated it has invested in rider safety and plans to appeal the finding that the driver was acting as an agent for the company, arguing that the jury instructions were incorrect. The company also noted the jury did not find it negligent or that its safety systems were defective.

Implications for California and Arizona

This verdict occurred in Arizona but may influence similar cases in California and Arizona. It could affect multi‑district litigation centralized in federal court. The outcome shows how courts may hold rideshare companies responsible for safety and harms caused by drivers. Victims in both states may have civil legal options when poor safety practices cause injuries or assaults. Each case depends on its own facts and circumstances.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we understand the complexity and emotional toll of pursuing serious civil claims. Our attorneys help clients understand legal options, gather evidence, and seek accountability from large companies. If you or a loved one were harmed in a rideshare incident, speaking with experienced counsel can clarify next steps. When you are ready, call 833.88.SHARK.

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

February 6, 2026
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person looking at Uber app in phone

Uber’s Contingency Fee Cap Proposal in California

By News, Personal Injury, Rideshare Accident

What is Uber’s Proposed Measure?

Uber has introduced a California ballot measure that would change the rules for people injured in car and truck accidents. This measure would significantly limit the compensation accident victims could receive for medical costs and make it harder for them to secure legal representation. The plan favors large corporations like Uber, making it more difficult for injured individuals to access medical care and fair financial recovery after a crash.

Impact on Medical Expense Recovery

If the measure passes, accident victims could be limited to receiving only Medicare rates for medical expenses, rather than the actual amount they paid. This could prevent people from recouping their full medical costs and increase healthcare expenses statewide. The proposal also imposes stricter requirements for proving medical liens, further limiting victims’ ability to recover costs.

Effect on Hiring a Lawyer

The initiative would place tight restrictions on contingency fees for injured parties while leaving Uber’s legal fees unrestricted. As a result, pursuing claims with lower damages or complicated liability could become economically unfeasible, leaving victims with fewer options to obtain legal representation against large companies, even in serious accidents. Essentially, this measure would make it harder for Californians to hold corporations accountable for injuries.

Who is Affected?

Although Uber supports this initiative, it is not limited to rideshare accidents. The rules would apply broadly to all motor vehicle accidents, impacting drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and anyone harmed in car or truck crashes across California.

Why the Proposal Is Misleading

The idea of a “cap” might sound fair, but it leaves out important facts.

  • Fewer Lawyers Could Take Cases
    Personal injury cases are expensive to handle. Attorneys often pay upfront for experts, records, and investigations. If the fee is capped too low, many lawyers will not be able to take on complex or high-risk cases.

  • Victims Could End Up With Less
    Uber says this proposal would give victims more of their settlement, but if fewer lawyers are available, many victims may never get a settlement in the first place.

  • Corporations Benefit Most
    Large companies like Uber stand to gain the most. If fewer lawsuits are filed, these companies will face less pressure to improve safety or take responsibility for harm caused by their drivers or policies.

What This Means for Accident Victims

If this proposal becomes law, it could make it harder for injured people to hold Uber or its drivers accountable after a crash.

  • Access to Justice Could Shrink
    Many victims rely on contingency fee arrangements because they cannot afford to pay hourly legal fees. A fee cap would limit access to skilled attorneys, especially for those with serious injuries or complicated claims.

  • Settlements Could Be Smaller
    When fewer lawyers are available, insurance companies and large corporations have more control. Victims may feel pressured to accept smaller settlements just to move forward.

  • Rideshare Accidents Could Be Impacted the Most
    Uber accident claims are already complex. Determining fault, dealing with multiple insurance companies, and proving damages often take months of work. A fee cap would make these types of cases even harder to pursue.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we believe accident victims deserve fairness and access to justice. Limiting attorney fees might sound like it helps victims, but in reality, it helps large corporations avoid responsibility.

Our team has the experience, compassion, and determination to stand up for injured people and ensure they have a voice against powerful companies. If you or a loved one has been injured in an Uber accident or by a rideshare driver, we are here to help.

Call 833.88.SHARK to speak with a trusted personal injury attorney today.

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

October 17, 2025
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two hands signing a piece of paper

Fake Lawyer Ads Are Giving Real Attorneys a Bad Name

By News, Personal Injury

The Problem with Fake Lawyer Ads

If you have seen an ad online that promises a guaranteed settlement or instant cash after an accident, it likely was not from a real lawyer. Many of these ads are made by lead generation companies, not licensed attorneys. These companies often pose as law firms, collect your personal information, then sell it to multiple firms or call centers.

These misleading lawyer ads harm the public and make real attorneys look dishonest. They also take advantage of people who are already in pain, confused, or unsure where to turn for help.

California Takes Action Against Misleading Ads

California has taken a strong stand against this growing problem. Senate Bill 37 (SB 37), which focuses on unlawful solicitations and advertisements by attorneys, has now become law.

  • Enrolled and presented: SB 37 was enrolled and presented to the Governor on September 23, 2025.

  • Signed into law: The bill has completed all required steps and has been signed by Governor Newsom.

  • Effective date: This new law will take effect on January 1, 2026.

When SB 37 goes into effect, it will create stricter rules for legal advertising and make it easier to hold deceptive marketers accountable.

What SB 37 Does

SB 37 was written to protect consumers from misleading lawyer ads and false claims. It includes important changes that:

  • Ban promises of guaranteed results or instant settlements

  • Require ads to include the name of a real California lawyer or law firm

  • Prohibit misleading claims about results, experience, or awards

  • Allow consumers to take legal action against deceptive advertising

  • Impose penalties on those who create or share false or misleading legal ads

These changes will help restore trust between injured victims and the attorneys who truly want to help them.

How to Protect Yourself

Even before this law takes effect, there are simple steps you can take to stay safe:

  • Avoid ads that sound too good to be true

  • Verify that the ad includes a real attorney’s name and California office location

  • Never share personal information with someone you cannot confirm is a licensed lawyer

  • Remember that ethical attorneys never guarantee a result

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we believe clients deserve honesty and respect. We never use gimmicks or make false promises. Instead, we focus on providing clear guidance, open communication, and genuine care for every person we represent.

If you need real help after an accident, contact Fielding Law or call 833.88.SHARK to speak with a trusted personal injury attorney.

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

October 15, 2025
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Golden Gate Bridge in California

How SB 82 California Law 2025 Could Impact the Injured

By Bicycle Accident, Car Accident, Motorcycle Accident, News, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Slip or Trip and Fall, Truck Accident, Wrongful Death

Understanding SB 82 and the New California Laws

Governor Gavin Newsom recently signed SB 82 and several related bills intended to reduce costs and strengthen protections for California families. These new laws address issues such as rental housing, unfair fees, and consumer rights. While they are not specific to personal injury, they can influence how injured Californians manage expenses and protect themselves financially during recovery.

How SB 82 and Related Laws May Help the Injured

1. Limits on Hidden Fees
SB 82 and other new laws restrict hidden or surprise charges added to purchases or services. For injured individuals, this could mean more transparent billing when using delivery, repair, or transportation services. Avoiding unexpected fees can make it easier to manage finances while focusing on recovery.

2. Stronger Tenant Protections
New housing-related laws require landlords to provide basic appliances like stoves and refrigerators in rental units and offer more flexibility when tenants face delayed government benefit payments. For someone injured and temporarily unable to work, these protections can help maintain housing stability while waiting for insurance or disability payments.

3. Easier Contract Cancellations
The updates also allow homeowners to cancel certain home improvement or repair contracts through email or phone. This change protects injured individuals from being trapped in costly agreements if their financial situation changes during recovery.

4. Broader Consumer Protections
California expanded existing consumer laws to make it harder for businesses to mislead or overcharge customers. Injured people, who may depend more heavily on outside services during recovery, gain stronger legal protection against unfair practices.

What This Means for Injury Victims

SB 82 California law 2025 does not directly change personal injury law, but it reflects a growing effort to protect residents from unexpected costs. For people coping with an injury, these safeguards can make recovery more manageable by reducing financial stress and improving access to fair treatment in housing and business transactions.

If you were injured due to someone else’s negligence, understanding your financial rights is only part of recovery. Legal representation can help ensure that you receive the full compensation you deserve.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we provide compassionate and capable legal help for those injured due to negligence in California and Arizona. Our team understands that recovery involves more than physical healing. Financial pressure, medical bills, and lost wages can make life overwhelming, and we are here to help you find stability and peace of mind.

Call 833.88.SHARK for a free consultation about your injury.

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

October 7, 2025
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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, News, 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.

September 18, 2025
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A person in a car touching a phone

California’s No Touch Phone Law

By Car Accident, Catastrophic Injury, News, 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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Real id website on computer with a person looking in their wallet

REAL ID Deadline: What Drivers Need to Know Before May 7, 2025

By News, Personal Injury

Top right corner of a Real id to show the star with a red arrow pointing at it.

What is the REAL ID?

The REAL ID is a federally compliant form of identification required starting May 7, 2025. After the REAL ID deadline, travelers flying domestically must show either a REAL ID or another approved document, like a passport, to board a flight or enter secure federal facilities.

REAL IDs are issued by state DMVs and include a visible star in the top right corner of the license or ID card. If your license does not have that star, it will not be accepted for federal purposes after the REAL ID deadline.

Why was the REAL ID law created?

The REAL ID Act was passed in 2005 to increase national security standards for state-issued identification. It was one of the key recommendations from the 9/11 Commission to make it more difficult for individuals to obtain fraudulent IDs.

Who needs to meet the REAL ID deadline?

Anyone aged 18 or older who wants to board a domestic flight or access a federal building or military base must have a REAL ID-compliant license or an alternative approved document. The REAL ID deadline affects all U.S. states, but each state has its own DMV process to issue compliant IDs.

You do not need a REAL ID to:

  • Drive a car

  • Vote in elections

  • Receive federal benefits like Social Security

  • Visit hospitals or health services

What California drivers need to know

California residents must visit the DMV in person to obtain a REAL ID. You will need to provide:

  • One proof of identity (such as a valid U.S. passport or birth certificate)

  • One proof of Social Security number (such as a W-2 or Social Security card)

  • Two proofs of California residency (like utility bills, mortgage statements, or lease agreements)

Visit the California DMV REAL ID page to schedule an appointment or check document requirements.

What Arizona drivers need to know

Arizona residents must also obtain a REAL ID-compliant license, called the “Travel ID,” from the Arizona Department of Transportation. You can apply at authorized MVD offices or third-party providers.

You will need:

  • Proof of identity and date of birth (such as a valid U.S. passport or certified birth certificate)

  • Proof of Social Security number

  • Two documents proving Arizona residency

Visit the Arizona MVD Travel ID page for full instructions and to schedule your appointment before the REAL ID deadline.

What happens if you miss the REAL ID deadline?

If you do not have a REAL ID-compliant license or another acceptable ID by the REAL ID deadline of May 7, 2025, you will not be allowed to board domestic flights or enter secure federal buildings. You will need to use a valid passport or another TSA-approved document, which may be inconvenient for quick trips or last-minute travel.

The earlier you apply, the more likely you are to avoid long DMV wait times or appointment delays as the deadline approaches.

Why the REAL ID deadline matters for accident victims and legal clients

At Fielding Law, we know that many of our clients rely on air travel to visit family, attend court proceedings, or seek medical care. Missing the REAL ID deadline can interrupt those essential activities. We encourage our clients in California and Arizona to meet this requirement early to avoid delays in travel or legal matters.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we believe legal service means more than just filing paperwork. We help clients stay informed and prepared, including staying ahead of changes like the REAL ID deadline. If you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence in a car accident, slip and fall, dog bite, or another type of personal injury, our team is here to support you with empathy, professionalism, and a proven track record of success.

Call 833.88.SHARK or reach out to 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.

April 30, 2025
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