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Thanksgiving buffet

Thanksgiving Buffet Gone Wrong?

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

At first bite, buffets offer an enticing experience with their grand selection of foods and no one stopping you from going back and getting your fourth plate. It is a dream for hungry diners, especially during the Thanksgiving season. Indulgence is practically encouraged! However, without some awareness, that freedom can take a dangerous turn and leave you in harm’s way.

Thanksgiving Buffet Hazards

Breeding Place for Bacteria

Buffets often have food sitting out for long periods of time. This makes it challenging to maintain safe temperatures, keeping hot foods above 140°F and cold foods below 40°F. When these standards slip, harmful bacteria like salmonella can grow quickly, putting you or a loved one at risk of getting sick.

Cross Contamination and Allergens

Buffets involve many people handling shared utensils and serving themselves from open food trays. Risk of allergens or viruses can be easily transferred from, one food item to the surface of another.

Choking Hazards

In some cases, staff may fail to properly remove bones, pits, or other hard objects from food, putting your family or friends at serious risk of choking. While guests are responsible for how fast they eat, improper food prep is a preventable hazard that can fall on the buffet staff.

Slip and Fall Accidents

Spilled drinks are common in buffet environments. However, when staff members forget to place proper signage to warn customers, what starts as a minor slip and fall can escalate into a serious injury.

Burns from Hot Trays

Trays and serving dishes can become extremely hot. If staff fail to provide clear warning signage or verbally alert guests, they create a hazardous environment. Your loved ones can then unknowingly touch hot surfaces and suffer painful burns.

Broken Dishes or Sharp Utensils

During busy times like Thanksgiving, when large crowds are coming through, the upkeep of dishes and utensils can sometimes be overlooked. Even awkwardly placed utensils and be a risk and cause accidental cuts to guests.

How Fielding Law Can Help

When negligence plays a role in food handling, poor maintenance, or failure to warn customers of hazards, the consequences can be serious. Depending on your situation, the buffet may be legally responsible for harm caused. At Fielding Law we understand how it can be overwhelming to deal with an injury caused by unsafe conditions. That is why we are here to help you understand your rights and walk you through the legal process. If you or a loved one has suffered due to unsafe conditions at a buffet contact us at 888.SHARK for your 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.

November 21, 2025
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Game board on a table

Common Games Insurance Companies Play

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

Understanding Insurance Company Tactics

After an accident or injury, dealing with insurance companies can feel overwhelming. Insurance adjusters focus on protecting their company’s bottom line. Often, this means using insurance company tactics to reduce the amount of compensation you receive. Knowing these tactics can help you protect your rights and your claim.

Common Tactics Used by Insurance Companies

Insurance companies may try to diminish your claim in several ways:

  • Lowball Offers: They may offer a quick settlement that is far below what your injuries and damages are worth. This tactic pressures victims to accept less.

  • Delayed Communication: By slowing responses or delaying offers, they hope you will settle quickly out of frustration.

  • Questioning Your Credibility: Adjusters may imply your account is inconsistent or exaggerated to reduce the payout.

  • Medical Record Scrutiny: They may focus on minor pre-existing conditions to argue that your injuries are not severe.

  • Recorded Statements: They may ask you to give a recorded statement and then use your words out of context.

  • Blaming the Victim: Adjusters sometimes suggest you share fault for the accident to reduce the settlement.

Why Insurance Companies Use These Tactics

Insurance companies operate as businesses. Every claim they pay represents money leaving the company. They use these insurance company tactics because most individuals do not fully understand the claims process. By applying pressure and confusion, they hope to secure a lower payout.

How Fielding Law Can Help

At Fielding Law, we know the strategies insurance companies use. Our attorneys in California and Arizona protect clients from these tactics. We handle communications with the insurance company, review settlement offers, and fight for full compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Do not let insurance company tactics reduce your claim. 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.

November 20, 2025
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person cooking a turkey with herbs and other food

Thanksgiving Kitchen Safety Tips

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

The holiday season brings family, friends, and lots of cooking. Busy kitchens increase the risk of accidents, making Thanksgiving kitchen safety more important than ever. Burns, cuts, slips, and trips are common injuries during meal preparation. Understanding hazards and following safety practices can help you enjoy the holiday safely.

Common Kitchen Hazards

  1. Hot Surfaces and Liquids – Ovens, stovetops, and boiling liquids can cause serious burns. Awareness is key for Thanksgiving kitchen safety.

  2. Sharp Objects – Knives, graters, and food processors can lead to cuts if handled improperly.

  3. Slippery Floors – Spills from cooking or drinks create slip-and-fall risks.

  4. Overcrowded Spaces – Too many people in the kitchen can cause collisions or accidents.

Safety Tips for a Safer Thanksgiving

  • Use oven mitts and pot holders for hot dishes or pans.

  • Keep knives sharp and store them safely. Sharp knives reduce injury risk.

  • Clean spills immediately to maintain a safe cooking area.

  • Organize your workspace to prevent accidents in crowded kitchens.

  • Keep children and pets away from hot surfaces and sharp tools.

These steps are essential for Thanksgiving kitchen safety and help prevent common injuries while keeping the holiday enjoyable.

What to Do if You Are Injured

If an accident happens in the kitchen, seek medical care immediately. Burns, cuts, and falls can worsen without prompt attention. Document the incident, note hazards, and report severe accidents if a third party is involved.

Who May Be Responsible

Hosts and property owners have a duty to maintain a safe environment. Injuries may result from slippery floors, unsafe appliances, or cluttered areas. In California and Arizona, comparative negligence rules may apply, potentially reducing recovery if you share some responsibility. Speaking with an attorney can protect your rights.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we understand that an injury can turn a joyful holiday into a stressful season. Our attorneys handle communication with insurance companies, investigate thoroughly, and fight for compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We provide professional, compassionate guidance for your Thanksgiving kitchen safety recovery.

Call 833.88.SHARK today to speak with a trusted attorney who can protect your rights after a holiday injury.

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

November 19, 2025
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Chat GPT app displayed on a phone

How ChatGPT Could Ruin Your Case

By Personal Injury

Picture you are about to update your attorney. You want your message to sound clear and organized, so you copy your thoughts into ChatGPT and ask it to write the email for you. It feels harmless, but it can be a major mistake that puts your entire case at risk.

Many clients turn to ChatGPT for quick answers about their personal injury case. While it may feel convenient, relying on public AI tools can unintentionally harm your claim. Personal injury cases in California and Arizona involve sensitive facts, strict legal requirements, and confidential strategy. These details must stay protected.

How ChatGPT Can Misinterpret Your Situation

ChatGPT gives general information. It does not understand the full context of your injuries, your medical treatment, or the specific laws that apply to your case. When clients ask about fault, timelines, or possible case value, the information they receive is often incomplete. This can create false confidence. For example, someone may think their case is simple when it actually involves multiple responsible parties or complex liability rules.

When Clients Use ChatGPT to Draft Emails

Many clients use ChatGPT to help draft emails to their lawyer. They enter their name, their attorney’s name, the law firm, their case number, medical details, witness names, or even concerns about strategy. This feels efficient, but it is extremely risky.

Open AI tools are accessible to the public. Anyone, including the defense or an insurance company, can use these tools. If you enter sensitive facts into ChatGPT, you could accidentally reveal important details about your case. Defense teams can test prompts on similar topics and gain insight into your injuries, concerns, or legal strategy without you ever knowing.

Open AI Is Not Private

Anything you enter into ChatGPT can affect your claim. ChatGPT is not a secure communication method, and it is not protected by the attorney-client privilege. If you share private details about your injuries, witnesses, or treatment, that information may be stored, processed, or reused. This means your confidential information may lose its protected status.

Bloomberg Law reports that careless use of public AI tools can jeopardize both attorney client privilege and work product protection. AI tools can also give inaccurate or misleading guidance. While Open AI does not make prompts searchable like a public database, there is no promise that your data stays protected or inaccessible.

Protect Your Case

You can protect yourself by following a few important guidelines.

  • Do not use ChatGPT or any public AI tool to write emails that include case information.

  • Do not enter your name, your attorney’s name, the law firm, your case number, or any medical or strategic details into AI.

  • Ask your attorney directly when you need guidance. This protects privilege and accuracy.

  • If you already shared information in AI, let your attorney know right away.

Why Clients Trust Fielding Law

If you have been injured because someone else acted carelessly, Fielding Law is ready to help you protect your rights and your privacy. Our team uses secure communication practices and safe systems so your case information stays private. You will work with real people who care, who listen, and who understand what you are going through. If you need support after an injury, contact Fielding Law 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.

November 18, 2025
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Clark Fielding Named National Trial Lawyer Top 100

By Firm News and Celebrations, Personal Injury

Clark Fielding Certificat for top 100Celebrating Clark H. Fielding

At Fielding Law, we are proud to share that Clark H. Fielding earned recognition as a top 100 civil plaintiff attorney through the National Trial Lawyers. This honor reflects his steady focus, his strong ethics, and his commitment to every person who turns to our firm for help. It also highlights the consistent work he brings to clients in both California and Arizona.

Why This Honor Matters

To begin, this recognition shows that Clark meets the high standards set by the National Trial Lawyers. Their Top 100 list includes attorneys who show proven skill, leadership, and dedication. Because Clark continues to demonstrate these qualities, his place as a top 100 civil plaintiff attorney strengthens the trust our clients place in our firm. This confidence matters, especially when individuals face stress, confusion, or uncertainty after an injury.

Our Approach to Client Support

At Fielding Law, we always focus on real people and their real needs. Clark leads with patience, respect, and clear guidance. He explains each step so clients feel supported rather than overwhelmed. With this approach, our team works together to offer steady help while clients focus on recovery. His recognition as a top 100 civil plaintiff attorney reinforces our shared values and our mission to lift clients through ethical and effective representation.

Why Hire Fielding Law

Choosing Fielding Law means choosing a team that cares deeply about each client and their future. We offer compassion, clarity, and practical legal strategy throughout the process. Our mission is to improve lives through honest work and strong communication. Anyone who wishes to speak with our team can call 833.88.SHARK at any time.

Looking Ahead

As we continue to grow, this honor helps strengthen our promise to serve clients with professionalism, kindness, and steady support. Clark’s recognition inspires our team and reflects the care we bring to every case. Together, we remain committed to rising with the communities we serve.

 

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

November 17, 2025
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Person with a medical bill and calculator

Health Insurance Subrogation in Personal Injury Cases

By Personal Injury

What Is Health Insurance Subrogation

When someone gets hurt in an accident, health insurance often helps pay the medical bills right away. Later, if that person receives money from the person who caused the accident, the health insurance company may ask to get back what it paid. This process is called health insurance subrogation.

In other words, subrogation means the insurance company wants to recover money it already spent on your care after you receive your settlement.

How Subrogation Works

  1. You are injured in an accident and need medical treatment.

  2. Your health insurance covers the cost of your care.

  3. You or your lawyer make a claim against the person who caused the accident.

  4. When you receive a settlement, your insurance company may ask for repayment for the bills it paid.

Because of subrogation, you do not get paid twice for the same medical expenses.

Why Subrogation Can Be Confusing

Subrogation can seem tricky because every insurance plan has its own rules. For example, Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance all follow different systems. In some cases, your lawyer can talk with the insurance company and try to lower the amount that must be repaid. Even a small reduction can make a big difference in what you keep from your settlement.

Why a Personal Injury Lawyer Makes a Difference

A lawyer helps you understand your insurance plan and your rights. They can handle communication with the insurance company and protect your final recovery. In addition, your lawyer can negotiate to reduce repayment amounts and make sure you do not lose more of your settlement than necessary.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we know that accident victims already face enough stress. Medical bills, insurance claims, and legal forms can quickly become overwhelming. Our team treats every client with care and understanding while fighting to protect their recovery. We work to simplify the process so you can focus on healing.

If you have questions about how health insurance subrogation might affect your personal injury case, contact Fielding Law or call 833.88.SHARK today.

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

November 14, 2025
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Semi-truck on a highway in traffic

Los Angeles County Semi-Truck Accidents: What Drivers Need to Know

By Car Accident, Motorcycle Accident, Personal Injury, Truck Accident

Large truck accidents in Los Angeles County can lead to devastating injuries because of the size and weight of commercial trucks. Our Los Angeles County  Large Truck Accident Lawyer helps victims recover damages and navigate complex liability and insurance matters.

How Common Are Large Truck Accidents in Los Angeles County?

Large trucks account for a small portion of vehicles but are involved in a disproportionate number of fatal crashes:

  • Trucks make up roughly 2.5% of California vehicles but 9.1% of fatal crashes. (its.uci.edu)

  • In 2023, 392 deaths in California were caused by large-truck collisions. (injuryfacts.nsc.org)

  • Los Angeles County has some of the highest truck traffic in the state, with hundreds of truck-involved collisions annually due to major freight corridors, highways, and port-related traffic.

These statistics show that drivers in Los Angeles County regularly encounter large trucks and the risks associated with them.

Why Large Truck Accidents Are Often Severe

  • Trucks require much longer stopping distances than passenger vehicles

  • Large blind spots make it difficult for drivers to see smaller vehicles

  • Fatigue and tight delivery schedules increase risk

  • Improper cargo loading or poor maintenance can contribute to accidents

Tips for Staying Safe Around Large Trucks

  • Maintain a safe following distance to allow extra stopping time

  • Avoid lingering in truck blind spots, especially on the right side or directly behind

  • Pass trucks safely and promptly, ensuring visibility

  • Never cut sharply in front of a truck; allow plenty of space

  • Exercise extra caution at ramps, merges, and freight-heavy areas

  • If involved in a crash, document the scene carefully and avoid admitting faultInfographic of a semi-trucks blindspots

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, our team handles large truck accident cases with care, professionalism, and thorough investigation. We review driver logs, carrier responsibility, vehicle maintenance, and cargo issues to hold all responsible parties accountable. Our mission is to improve the lives of our clients through ethical and effective representation. Call 833.88.SHARK to speak with our Los Angeles County large truck accident lawyer 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.

November 13, 2025
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Woman sitting in the woods meditating

Why You Should Destress Before Mediation

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, Skate & Skateboarding Accident, Ski & Snowboard Accident, Slip or Trip and Fall, Spinal Cord Injury, Train Accident, Truck Accident, Wrongful Death

Mediation can be stressful. You may feel pressure to reach an agreement, worry about the other side, or fear that your position will not be understood. Managing your stress before mediation is essential to protect your mental focus and advocate effectively for yourself.

What Mediation Involves

Mediation is a structured negotiation guided by a neutral third party, called a mediator. Unlike court, it is informal, confidential, and focused on finding a mutually acceptable resolution. Understanding the process can reduce uncertainty and help you feel more prepared.

Why Reducing Stress Matters

Stress affects your judgment, communication, and patience. When you are tense, it can be harder to listen carefully, respond thoughtfully, or negotiate calmly. Entering mediation in a relaxed state increases your ability to:

  • Think clearly about your priorities and goals

  • Stay composed under pressure

  • Communicate your needs confidently

  • Recognize reasonable compromises

A calm approach can make the process smoother, help prevent emotional reactions, and improve the likelihood of a favorable outcome.

Strategies to Destress

  1. Prepare in Advance
    Understand your case, documents, and your ideal outcome. Preparation reduces uncertainty, which is a major source of stress.

  2. Practice Mindfulness or Meditation
    Simple breathing exercises or guided meditations can lower anxiety and help you feel grounded. Even five minutes can make a difference.

  3. Exercise
    Physical activity releases tension and stimulates endorphins. A short walk or light workout before mediation can boost focus and mood.

  4. Get Adequate Sleep
    Fatigue intensifies stress and reduces your ability to think clearly. Prioritize rest the night before your session.

  5. Limit Caffeine and Sugar
    Excessive stimulants can increase anxiety. Opt for water or calming teas instead.

  6. Visualize Success
    Picture yourself speaking calmly, listening attentively, and negotiating effectively. Positive visualization can increase confidence and reduce nervousness.

  7. Talk with Your Attorney
    Discuss concerns with your lawyer, review the process, and clarify what to expect. Feeling supported reduces fear and uncertainty.

Why Hire Fielding Law

Mediation is a critical step in resolving disputes, and Fielding Law is committed to guiding clients through it with empathy and skill. We help you prepare, stay focused, and advocate effectively so you can approach mediation with confidence.

Call 833.88.SHARK to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward a calmer, more effective mediation experience.

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

November 12, 2025
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Babysitter with a child in a family room

When Babysitting Becomes Unsafe

By Assault, Personal Injury, Sexual Assault & Abuse

At Fielding Law, we often shed light on sensitive issues that do not always receive the attention they deserve. An often-overlooked issue is the mistreatment babysitters face while doing their jobs. Although it is rarely discussed, many babysitters have experienced situations where they were disrespected, mistreated, or even harmed while simply trying to do their job.

Understanding Babysitter Abuse

It is not easy to recognize when a child’s behavior may be unfair or hurtful towards a babysitter.  Young children are still learning how their words and actions affect others, and they often do not realize when they have crossed the line. Even so, their behavior can still cause real harm, and in some cases, it may even become abusive. This can include physical actions, such as hitting, grabbing, or using physical intimidation, as well as emotional behaviors, like yelling, belittling, or manipulation. Learning these behaviors is an important step in protecting the babysitter’s well-being and creating a safe, and respectful environment for everyone involved.

Common Red Flags

  • The family refuses to meet you in public before hiring
  • The job expectations are more than standard childcare duties that you are accustomed to
  • The parents refuse to discuss pay rates, or the pay seems “too good to be true”
  • They rush you to start right away without any chance for you to ask questions beforehand
  • There are not enough details given about the children’s age or behavior

Every babysitter should feel safe and valued while caring for children. Babysitting is a special experience that allows you to learn from kids and share their joy. Taking time to notice a few signs before accepting a job can help ensure you feel confident, protected, and respected  to step into this important role.

What to Do if Harmed

If you have already begun working for a family and notice repeated signs of mistreatment, unwanted physical contact, or any form of assault, remember that your well-being comes first. It is ok to step away from the situation to protect yourself. Trust your instincts! If something does not feel right, it is important to trust your gut.  You do not have to go through it alone. If you have been harmed or are feeling distressed, our team at Fielding Law is here to listen with compassion and help you understand your legal options.

How We Can Step in to Help

If this experience has left you feeling shaken or hurt, we want you to know that help is available. The Fielding Law team is here to offer understanding, guidance, and clarity about your next steps. Call us today at 833.88.SHARK for a free consultation with someone who will truly listen and support you through the process.

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

November 11, 2025
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Robot hand reaching up towards a human hand

AI in Personal Injury Law: Real People, Real Care

By Personal Injury

AI in Personal Injury Law at Fielding Law

AI in personal injury law is changing the way law firms work. At Fielding Law, we use AI to help with research, organize documents, and prepare cases faster. This technology allows our team to focus more on our clients and less on repetitive tasks. To learn more about how AI is transforming the legal field, read our post on AI and replacing a lawyer.

Even though AI helps us, it cannot feel empathy, understand your situation, or provide guidance the way a human can. Every case involves a person whose life has been affected, and we know that real people make the difference.

Why Real People Matter in AI-Enhanced Law

Technology can make work easier, but it cannot replace personal connection. Every client has a unique story, and every family faces challenges that require understanding and care.

At Fielding Law, we listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and guide you through the process with compassion. You are more than a file or a number. AI assists us, but real people provide the care and attention you deserve.

Even as technology advances, questions about responsibility and safety arise. Our blog on AI negligence explores what happens when artificial intelligence causes harm or error.

Balancing AI with Human Compassion

We use AI in personal injury law to stay organized and accurate, but we always make decisions with a human touch. Our attorneys and staff combine skill, experience, and empathy. As a result, every client feels heard and supported.

We also discuss the potential risks and limitations of relying on machines in Should I Be Worried About AI in Personal Injury Cases?. By using technology wisely, we save time, reduce errors, and focus on what matters most: helping you and your family.

Technology with Heart

As AI continues to evolve, ethical responsibility remains at the heart of every decision we make. At Fielding Law, we believe technology should serve people, not replace them. Our clients deserve empathy, advocacy, and guidance from real humans who care deeply about their stories.

Why Hire Fielding Law

When you choose Fielding Law, you choose a team that blends smart tools with real care. AI in personal injury law helps us work efficiently, but our people are what make your case strong. We provide ethical, personal, and effective legal support while keeping your needs first.

If you or a loved one has been injured because of someone else’s negligence, call 833.88.SHARK. Our team is ready to listen, guide, and support you every step of the way.

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

November 11, 2025
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