Skip to main content
Category

Personal Injury

lady justice statue on a desk

How Fault for Injuries Is Determined in Arizona

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

After an accident, one big question comes up right away. Who caused the injury? In many cases, the answer is not simple. Arizona law allows more than one person to share responsibility. Because of this, understanding Arizona fault for injuries can make a major difference in an injury claim.

Arizona uses a rule called pure comparative negligence. Under this rule, each person involved in an accident receives a percentage of fault. Even if someone is partly responsible for their own injury, they may still recover compensation. However, their recovery may be reduced by their share of fault.

How Fault Gets Decided

First, insurance companies review the facts. Then, attorneys may conduct their own investigation. They often look at:

Together, this evidence helps show how the incident happened. As a result, it becomes easier to argue how Arizona fault for injuries should be divided.

Car Crash Example

Two drivers approach an intersection. One driver runs a stop sign. Meanwhile, the other driver travels above the speed limit. A crash follows.

In this situation, both drivers likely share blame. The driver who ignored the stop sign may hold most of the fault. However, the speeding driver may still carry some responsibility. Therefore, any compensation could be reduced by that percentage.

Store Fall Example

A store employee leaves a spill on the floor. No warning sign is placed nearby. Shortly after, a shopper walks through the aisle while looking at a shopping list on their phone and slips.

Here, the store may hold responsibility for the unsafe floor. At the same time, the shopper’s distraction may also play a role. Because of this, both sides may argue over Arizona fault for injuries.

Pedestrian Accident Example

A driver speeds through a neighborhood at dusk. At the same time, a pedestrian crosses the street outside a crosswalk. The driver cannot stop in time.

Both choices matter. The driver’s speed creates danger. However, the pedestrian’s crossing location may also affect visibility and reaction time. So, fault may be shared.

Why Fault Percentages Matter

Fault percentages directly affect money damages. For example, if someone has 20 percent fault, their financial recovery may be reduced by 20 percent. Because of this, insurance companies often try to shift blame. Clear evidence and strong legal arguments can help push back.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, our team approaches every case with care and professionalism. We focus on the facts, we look closely at the evidence, and we work to prevent unfair blame. If you were injured and have questions about Arizona fault for injuries, contact Fielding Law and call 833.88.SHARK to discuss your situation.

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

March 9, 2026
Love0
settlement money on a blue table top

How Quickly Do Injury Settlements Disappear?

By Personal Injury

After a serious injury, receiving a settlement can feel like relief. Bills are due, income may be reduced, and stress has been high for a long time. However, many people are surprised by how quickly an injury settlement can disappear if there is no long-term plan in place.

An injury settlement is meant to do more than cover immediate expenses. Its purpose is to help protect your future, including medical care, lost income, and long-term financial stability for you and your family.

Why Injury Settlements Are Spent So Fast

Many people choose to receive their injury settlement as one lump sum. At first, this can feel like the easiest and most flexible option. However, studies show that flexibility can also create risk.

According to a 2025 MetLife study, 96% of people who chose monthly structured settlement payments said those payments made budgeting easier. In contrast, 72% of people who took a lump sum later said their budget would have been easier to manage if they had chosen monthly payments instead.

What is especially concerning is that many people who chose a lump sum believed they were financially cautious and knowledgeable. Even so, they underestimated how quickly everyday expenses, unexpected costs, and life changes would add up. In many cases, their own spending decisions became the biggest risk to their financial security.

What Happens Over Time

The long-term numbers help explain why this matters. Among people who took a lump sum more than three years ago, 31% had less than half of their injury settlement remaining. Even more alarming, 17% had already spent their entire settlement (Prudential).

Once that money is gone, there is often no way to replace it. Medical needs may continue, work limitations may remain, and families can be left without the support the settlement was meant to provide.

The Purpose of an Injury Settlement

An injury settlement is not a windfall or a bonus. It exists to help make up for what an injury has taken away. That may include your health, your ability to work, and your peace of mind.

Structured settlements, which provide guaranteed monthly payments, are designed to help prevent money from being spent too quickly. They offer steady income over time and help protect people from financial decisions made during stressful moments.

The Role of Your Attorney Matters

Research also shows that attorneys play a major role in settlement decisions. About 68% of people said their attorney was a source of information about structured settlements, and 45% said their attorney was the first person to explain that option. Most people also said their attorney was the most influential voice in their decision.

Timing matters as well. When people learn about their settlement options during the settlement process, more than half choose a structured settlement. Overall, 84% of people felt their settlement had a positive impact on their financial wellness when they understood their choices (Prudential).

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we believe an injury settlement should support you for the long term, not create new stress years later. We take time to explain settlement options in clear, simple terms and help clients think beyond the moment. Our focus is on people injured due to negligence, and on protecting their future as well as their present.

If you have questions about an injury, Fielding Law is here to help. Call 833.88.SHARK to speak with a team that values clarity, care, and thoughtful decision-making.

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

March 6, 2026
Love0
Red flags waving in the sky

How to Spot a Bad Law Firm Before You Sign

By Personal Injury

Before you commit to a law firm, it is important to know how to spot a bad law firm. Paying attention to red flags during the intake process or initial conversations can save time, money, and stress. Here are key warning signs to watch for before you sign any agreements:

1. Poor Communication During Intake

If calls or emails go unanswered, or responses are vague and inconsistent, this is often a sign the firm does not prioritize clients. Knowing how to spot a bad law firm includes noticing communication patterns from the very first conversation.

2. High-Pressure Tactics

Firms that push you to sign immediately or rush you toward a settlement may be more concerned with their own convenience than your best outcome. Recognizing this early is an important step in understanding how to spot a bad law firm.

3. Misleading Marketing

Ads that joke about being an “ambulance chaser,” promise quick cash, or use flashy slogans can indicate the firm is focused on marketing rather than client care. Learning how to spot a bad law firm means evaluating the tone and honesty of their marketing.

4. Settlement Calculators or Overly Optimistic Estimates

Online tools or staff providing specific settlement numbers can be misleading. Every case is unique, and no calculator can accurately predict your outcome. Awareness of this is part of knowing how to spot a bad law firm.

5. Lack of Fee Transparency

If the firm is unclear about fees or hides costs during intake, it is a major warning sign. Clear communication about costs is a key part of how to spot a bad law firm.

6. Unprofessional Behavior

Rudeness, dismissiveness, or disorganization during initial meetings often reflects how the firm handles cases overall. Observing this helps you understand how to spot a bad law firm.

7. Avoiding Questions About Experience

If staff or attorneys hesitate to discuss past cases, outcomes, or relevant expertise, it may indicate limited experience. Knowing how to spot a bad law firm includes checking their track record before signing.

8. Unrealistic Promises

Any firm guaranteeing a specific result during intake is likely focused on marketing rather than your success. Identifying these promises is part of learning how to spot a bad law firm.

9. No Clear Strategy

A firm that cannot explain how they would handle your case or answer basic questions about strategy shows a lack of preparation. Recognizing this helps you know how to spot a bad law firm before committing.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we put your needs first. From the very first call, we communicate clearly, provide honest guidance, and develop strategies tailored to your case. Every decision centers on what is best for you.

Before you sign anything, learn how to spot a bad law firm and make sure the firm demonstrates professionalism, transparency, and genuine care from the very beginning. Call 833.88.SHARK to speak with a team that will advocate for you.

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

March 4, 2026
Love0
People sitting at a cafe with a dog

Are Dog Friendly Businesses Liable for Bites?

By Dog / Animal Bite, Personal Injury, Premises Liability

Can Businesses Be Liable for Dog Bites?

Dog bites can cause lasting injuries, both physical and emotional. While dog owners are usually responsible for their pet’s actions, businesses that allow dogs on their premises may also share liability under certain circumstances. In California and Arizona, premises liability laws can make property owners or businesses partially responsible when a visitor is hurt by a dog on their property.

California Dog Bite Laws

California follows a strict liability rule for dog owners. This means that an owner is legally responsible if their dog bites someone in a public place or lawfully on private property. However, businesses in California may also face business liability for dog bites if:

  • They permitted dogs on their property knowing the potential risks

  • They failed to post warnings about dogs being present

  • Their negligence contributed to the incident, such as allowing aggressive animals in crowded areas

For example, if a café invites customers to bring dogs onto the patio but does not provide proper safety measures, the business may share fault if a bite occurs.

Arizona Dog Bite Laws

Arizona also imposes strict liability on dog owners, holding them responsible when a bite happens in a public place or when the victim has a legal right to be on private property. Businesses in Arizona, like in California, may face business liability for dog bites if they created unsafe conditions by allowing dogs on their premises.

Arizona courts can consider whether:

  • The business knew or should have known the dog was dangerous

  • Reasonable precautions were ignored

  • The injured person was legally present at the time of the attack

Shared Responsibility in Dog Bite Cases

Both states allow for comparative fault, meaning liability may be shared between multiple parties. In a dog bite case on a business property, responsibility could fall on:

  • The dog’s owner for failing to control their pet

  • The business for not taking steps to protect customers or guests

  • Other parties involved in maintaining the premises

Because these cases can be complex, it is important for victims to speak with an experienced attorney.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we understand how devastating dog bite injuries can be. Our caring and capable team helps clients in California and Arizona hold negligent parties accountable. Whether the responsibility lies with a dog owner, a business, or both, we fight to recover the compensation our clients deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog bite incident on business property, 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.

March 2, 2026
Love0
farm tractor on a rural road

Rural Road Accidents in Arizona

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

Why Rural Roads Are Risky

Arizona’s rural roads offer beautiful views and open stretches. They also carry hidden dangers. Many of these roads are narrow, have limited visibility, and lack proper lighting or guardrails. Drivers often travel faster than is safe, increasing the risk of serious collisions.

Dangers from Farm Equipment

Farm vehicles such as tractors, harvesters, and trailers often move slowly and can take up an entire lane. Drivers unfamiliar with rural areas may not expect these slow-moving vehicles. Collisions with farm equipment can cause severe injuries because of the size and weight of the machinery.

Common Rural Road Accidents

Rural roads in Arizona see a range of accidents. Some of the most common include:

  • Head-on collisions with oncoming vehicles

  • Rear-end crashes caused by sudden stops or slow-moving farm vehicles

  • Collisions with tractors, harvesters, or other farm machinery

  • Single-vehicle accidents due to sharp curves or uneven road surfaces

  • Rollover accidents from high speeds on narrow lanes

Who Can Be Liable

Accidents on rural roads can involve multiple parties. In some cases, the farm operator or property owner may share liability. Local governments can also be responsible if roads are poorly maintained or lack warnings. Investigating the cause of the accident is key to protecting your rights.

Why Hire Fielding Law

Rural road accidents can be complex. Fielding Law has experience handling personal injury cases in Arizona and California. We carefully investigate every possible source of liability. Our goal is to help victims recover compensation and focus on healing.

What to Do After an Accident

If you are injured in a rural road accident or hit by farm equipment, seek medical attention immediately. Document the scene with photos if it is safe. Collect witness information. Avoid giving statements to insurance companies without legal guidance. Calling Fielding Law early can help preserve evidence and strengthen your case.

Accidents on rural roads can be life-changing. With the right legal support, you can focus on recovery while Fielding Law manages the details. Call 833.88.SHARK to speak with a rural road accident lawyer and learn your options.

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

February 26, 2026
Love0
Ryan Cooper, Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® 2025

Ryan W. Cooper is a 2026 Super Lawyers Rising Star

By Firm News and Celebrations, Personal Injury

Ryan W. Cooper Recognized Again

We are excited to announce that Ryan W. Cooper, Senior Attorney at Fielding Law, earned the 2026 Super Lawyers Rising Star. He has received this honor every year since 2021. This achievement shows his dedication, skill, and strong commitment to helping clients recover after serious injuries.

What It Takes to Earn the 2026 Super Lawyers Rising Star

Earning the 2026 Super Lawyers Rising Star requires more than experience. Attorneys must demonstrate exceptional skill and earn respect from both peers and clients. The selection process starts with peer nominations. Then, independent research evaluates candidates’ professional achievements, verdicts, and settlements. Only a small percentage of attorneys under 40, or practicing for fewer than ten years, receive this recognition.

About Ryan W. Cooper

Ryan brings both knowledge and compassion to every case. He has handled many complex matters, including catastrophic injuries and wrongful death claims. Clients trust him for his careful preparation and strong advocacy. In addition, Ryan has a background in UCI Baseball, which shows his teamwork and commitment to excellence.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we help clients recover after serious injuries. Attorneys like Ryan W. Cooper, recognized as a 2026 Super Lawyers Rising Star, guide clients with skill and care. We focus on ethical, effective representation to protect your rights. If you or a loved one suffers a personal injury, call 833.88.SHARK today to speak with our team.

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

February 23, 2026
Love0
Clark Fielding, Best Lawyers in America 2025

Clark Fielding Earns Super Lawyer  for 2026

By Firm News and Celebrations, Personal Injury

Recognition That Matters

Clark FieldingClark H. Fielding, Founding Principal at Fielding Law, has once again been selected as a Super Lawyer 2026, marking five consecutive years of recognition. He has also been named one of the Top 50 attorneys in Orange County by Super Lawyers, highlighting both his professional excellence and peer acknowledgment. This dual recognition underscores Clark’s unwavering commitment to his clients and the legal community, reflecting his deep dedication to achieving strong outcomes and delivering compassionate service.

Rigorous Selection Process

The Super Lawyers selection process includes peer nominations, independent research, and peer evaluations. It examines criteria such as verdicts and settlements, experience, honors, and community involvement. Clark’s inclusion for 2026 reflects his continued excellence in professional achievement and peer recognition.

Dual‑State Practice Advantage

Clark is licensed in both California and Arizona, which allows him to serve injured clients in both states with deep legal insight into each jurisdiction. This dual‑state presence enhances the team’s ability to handle complex cases from coast to desert with consistency and expertise.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, every client receives personal attention, clear communication, and focused advocacy. Clark leads a team whose goal is to improve lives through ethical and efficient representation. Clients benefit from a firm culture of professionalism, civility, and kindness.
Choosing Fielding Law means entrusting your case to an attorney recognized by his peers as among the best, one who holds the values of caring and capability at the center of the client‑lawyer relationship.

What This Means for You

  • You gain representation from a Super Lawyer‑recognized attorney.

  • You work with a firm led by someone who prioritizes clients and values service.

  • You engage a team equipped to handle collisions, catastrophic injuries, product‑liability claims and more in California and Arizona.
    If you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, call 833.88.SHARK for a free consultation with Fielding Law.

Clark H. Fielding’s Super Lawyer recognition for 2026 is a meaningful achievement that reaffirms his standing in the plaintiffs’ personal‑injury field. When you engage Fielding Law you are aligning with a team that values your wellbeing, your story, and your right to justice.

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

Super Lawyers Top 50 Clark Fielding

Clark H Fielding Super Lawyers 5 Years badge

February 20, 2026
Love0
Insurance Adjuster on the phone.

Why Insurance Adjusters Try to Shame or Harass Accident Victims

By Car Accident, Personal Injury

Why Adjusters Use Victim Shaming

You pay for insurance hoping you never need it. However, after an accident, some insurance adjusters try to pressure you into settling quickly. For example, they may say your injuries are minor, suggest limiting your treatment, or warn that they will fight you if you try to get full compensation. This tactic, called victim shaming by insurance adjusters, is meant to make you doubt yourself and take less than you deserve.

Common Tactics Adjusters Use

Adjusters often act right away. They may:

  • Claim the accident could not have caused serious injuries.

  • Call the collision “low impact” or “minor” to make injuries seem small.

  • Encourage you to limit medical treatment.

  • Pressure victims without lawyers, and sometimes even those with attorneys, into quick settlements.

  • Suggest that pursuing full compensation is unreasonable and will trigger an aggressive defense.

Because of these tactics, victims often question their injuries, their treatment, and even their right to hire a lawyer.

Why These Tactics Are Dangerous

Even small accidents can cause serious injuries that appear days or weeks later. Unfortunately, adjusters know this. Therefore, victim shaming is not about fairness or safety—it is about reducing payouts.

Without legal help, victims may feel pressured, guilty, or confused. As a result, they often accept far less than they deserve.

How Fielding Law Protects You

At Fielding Law, we guide clients through the entire claims process. For example, we:

Why Hire Fielding Law

When you hire Fielding Law, you get experienced advocates on your side from the start. We make sure insurance adjusters cannot intimidate you. We also help you get the medical care you need and work to secure the compensation you deserve. Most importantly, we let you focus on recovery instead of dealing with victim shaming or harassment.

Call 833.88.SHARK to speak with our team and get the support you deserve.

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

February 19, 2026
Love0
Basketball on a wooden floor

Hidden Risks at a Wildcats Game

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

Basketball season is here! That means packed arenas, the smell of concession favorites, and unforgettable memories with family and friends. However, with all the cheering, running, and excitement, things can sometimes go wrong. Even from the sidelines, the action can get risky, and accidents can happen very quickly. Big crowds are part of the fun, but they can also create safety risks where you can become injured at a Wildcats game.

Hidden Risks in the Stands 

  • Flying Objects: Basketballs can sometimes leave the court unexpectedly. If you or a loved one are not paying attention or sitting too close, injuries can quickly follow. As a result, fans often have only a split second to react, especially if they are watching replays or helping kids with snacks. Objects like phones, bags, or drinks thrown accidentally by other fans can also become hazards.
  • Seating and Stadium Hazards: Slips, falls, or unstable seats are more common than you might expect. Crowded aisles, stairs, or poorly maintained sections of the arena can lead to accidents. Accidents are especially common when fans move quickly between halftime or exit the arena at the end of the game.
  • Fan Reactions and Crowd Surges: The energy of the crowd can be intense and overwhelming at times. Collisions with other fans, jumping up, or turning fast can all lead to injuries, showing that the action extends beyond the court.
  • Food Accidents: Burns from hot drinks, spills, or choking hazards are another overlooked risk. Spills are especially common in tight seating rows where there is little room to move. Even everyday concession items can lead to accidents and cause injuries at a Wildcats game.

Smart Ways to Stay Safe at the Game 

  • Purchase seat tickets a safe distance from the court: Choose a seat a little farther back from the court to reduce the risk of getting hit by a stray ball or accidental collisions while enjoying the game.
  • Hold onto railings when climbing stairs: Arenas can get crowded and stairs slippery, especially when fans are moving quickly between concessions and seats. Falls on stairs often lead to more serious injuries than slips on flat ground. Therefore, using handrails helps prevent slips and falls.  
  • Secure your belongings and group: Remember to keep bags, phones, and other items close and zipped or fastened. Loose items can become tripping hazards or get lost in the excitement of the crowd. Keep children or elderly family members close as they are more at risk in crowded areas.
  • Be Aware of Emergency Exits and First Aid: Familiarize yourself and loved ones with the arena’s exits, first aid stations, and emergency procedures. Being calm and prepared can make all the difference if an accident occurs. 

How Fielding Law Helps You Bounce Back 

Our experienced team can help you determine whether the stadium, its employees, or others in the crowd caused your injury. We guide you through your options and next steps. Getting injured at a Wildcats game can quickly turn a fun night into a stressful situation. Fielding Law has extensive experience handling stadium injury cases and helping clients recover from accidents at sporting events. Call 833.88.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.

February 18, 2026
Love0
person with a brain injury holding their head

Life After a TBI

By Bicycle Accident, Brain Injury (TBI), Car Accident, E-Bikes and E-Scooters, Motorcycle Accident, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Slip or Trip and Fall, Spinal Cord Injury, Truck Accident

What Is a Traumatic Brain Injury?

A traumatic brain injury, often called a TBI, happens when a sudden impact or force disrupts how the brain works. This can occur during a car accident, fall, sports injury, or any event where the head strikes an object or is violently shaken.

Even mild injuries like concussions can cause lasting problems. Understanding traumatic brain injury after effects is important for proper care and long term recovery.

Common Causes of TBIs

Traumatic brain injuries often result from preventable accidents. Common causes include:

In many cases, these injuries occur because someone acted negligently. When that happens, legal options may be available.

Short Term Symptoms May Fade, Long Term Effects May Not

Some symptoms appear right away, while others develop gradually. Headaches or dizziness may improve, but many traumatic brain injury after effects can last for years or even a lifetime.

Long term effects may include:

  • Memory loss or difficulty concentrating

  • Mood changes, including anxiety or depression

  • Personality changes

  • Sleep problems

  • Sensitivity to light or noise

  • Chronic headaches

  • Difficulty with speech or balance

Even daily tasks can become challenging, and relationships, work, and personal independence may be affected.

How TBIs Affect Work and Daily Life

Brain injuries often impact earning potential. A person may require reduced hours, job modifications, or even a career change. Therapy, medications, and medical appointments can create additional financial stress.

Beyond financial challenges, traumatic brain injury after effects can affect independence. Many people need assistance with transportation, household tasks, or personal care, which can be stressful for the entire family.

TBIs in California and Arizona

California and Arizona recognize traumatic brain injuries as serious personal injuries. Each state has its own rules for filing claims.

In California, personal injury claims usually must be filed within two years. Arizona typically follows the same two year statute of limitations. Cases involving minors or government entities may have different rules.

Brain injuries often worsen over time. Waiting too long can make it harder to link symptoms to the original accident. Consulting an attorney early can help preserve evidence and medical records.

Why Hire Fielding Law

Traumatic brain injury after effects require careful evaluation, medical expertise, and legal guidance. At Fielding Law, we understand how deeply these injuries can impact every part of life. Our team works closely with doctors and experts to capture the full impact, not just what is immediately visible.

We listen, explain options clearly, and handle your case with professionalism and care. If you or a loved one is living with the long term effects of a brain injury caused by negligence, you do not have to face it alone. Contact Fielding Law or call 833.88.SHARK to speak with our team.

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

February 17, 2026
Love0
Close Menu