Skip to main content
Category

Personal Injury

Person riding an e-bike on sand

Newport Beach Bans Bikes and E-Bikes on the Sand

By Bicycle Accident, E-Bikes and E-Scooters, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury

Newport Beach Bike Ban: What You Need to Know

The Newport Beach bike ban, which went into effect in May 2025, now blocks bicycles, e-bikes, motorized scooters, and pedicabs from traveling on the sand at city beaches. City leaders approved the rule to improve safety and protect fragile dune habitats. Fast-moving bikes and e-bikes can cause serious injuries in crowded beach areas. They can also harm protected wildlife in sensitive sand dunes.

How This Rule Can Impact Injury Claims

Local laws shape many personal injury cases. When a rider ignores the Newport Beach bike ban and injures someone, that violation can serve as strong evidence of negligence. An injured pedestrian can point to the ordinance to support their claim.

If an accident happens where bikes and e-bikes remain legal—such as the boardwalk—the focus shifts. The question becomes whether the rider followed the 8 mph speed limit and operated with care. Motorized scooters remain prohibited on the boardwalk entirely.

Examples of Possible Legal Cases

  • Pedestrian hit on the sand: A rider who ignores the ban and hits a pedestrian may face liability for injuries.

  • Shared-fault situations: California’s comparative fault law reduces compensation if both parties share blame.

  • Property loss: The city can impound abandoned or improperly stored vehicles, creating potential property damage claims.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we track how changes like the Newport Beach bike ban influence personal injury cases. Our attorneys understand the laws in California and Arizona and know how to use them to build strong claims. If a bicycle, e-bike, or scooter accident injured you or someone you love, our team will fight for fair compensation.

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.

A young girl plays tennis in the summer

Avoiding a Summer Injury

By Brain Injury (TBI), Burn Injury, Personal Injury

With warm weather and longer days, summer is the perfect time to get outside, stay active, and enjoy your favorite sports and recreational activities. From pickup games at the park to neighborhood bike rides, there is no better season. However, amid all the excitement, it is easy to neglect proper care—or fall victim to someone else’s carelessness. If your summer injury was caused by negligence, you may have a personal injury case. Here are a few guidelines to help you stay safe and injury-free.

Common Injuries

By understanding common injuries, we can better protect ourselves—and know when a situation may have legal consequences.

Heat Exhaustion

Feeling dizzy, sweaty, or nauseous? Your body may be overheating and struggling to cool down.
Protecting Yourself
Avoid activity during extreme heat and take frequent breaks. If a coach, facility, or property owner failed to provide shade, hydration, or supervision, and you became ill, that could be considered negligence.

Stress Fractures

Repetitive activities like running can put too much pressure on bones, leading to small fractures.
Protecting Yourself
Ease into summer sports and include rest days. If a trainer failed to balance workouts or allowed unsafe repetition without breaks, they may be responsible for resulting injuries.

Tendonitis

Swollen or painful tendons often result from repeating the same motion too many times.
Protecting Yourself
Stretch regularly and check your form during activity. If a coach ignored warning signs, failed to adjust routines, or neglected injury prevention, this could be negligent training.

Concussions

A concussion is a brain injury that can occur after a bump or hit to the head.
Protecting Yourself
Always wear proper gear and follow the rules. If the school, camp, or facility failed to provide or maintain helmets or protective equipment, that is a serious oversight and may be grounds for a personal injury claim.

Sunburn or Blisters

Painful skin damage and fluid-filled blisters are signs of excessive sun exposure.
Protecting Yourself
Use sunscreen, reapply often, and wear a hat. If a coach or camp leader pushed children to play outdoors in extreme heat without breaks or failed to encourage sunscreen, that may be considered negligent supervision.

When Is Someone Else Legally Responsible?

Trainers, coaches, and property owners must take reasonable steps to prevent harm. Some examples of potential negligence include:

  • A summer camp counselor fails to supervise kids during a soccer game, and one is seriously injured.

  • A water sports instructor ignores life jacket protocols, and a participant is harmed.

  • A bike rental shop provides bikes with faulty brakes, resulting in injuries.

Why Hire Fielding Law

If summer fun turned into a serious injury due to someone else’s negligence, Fielding Law is ready to help. We understand the impact of sports-related and recreational injuries and will handle your case with care and skill. Call 833.88.SHARK for a free consultation and let us help you rise through this challenge—together.

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

two people shaking hands

Trusted Partners Since Day One

By Personal Injury

A Partnership Built on Trust and Experience

At Fielding Law, we know that behind every successful case is a team you can rely on—one that brings insight, skill, and a commitment to justice. That is exactly why we value our long-standing partnership with DeWitt Algorri & Algorri. Their firm has played an important role in assisting with our most complex cases, and our collaboration is rooted in a deep mutual respect and a shared passion for helping those who have been harmed due to negligence.

A Decade and a Half of Trust

Clark Fielding first began working with DeWitt Algorri & Algorri in 2010—before Fielding Law was founded. Over the years, that working relationship grew into something more: a dependable partnership built on results, consistency, and trust. When Fielding Law opened its doors, it was clear that this partnership should continue. Since then, our teams have worked together on numerous cases, drawing on one another’s strengths to better serve our clients.

Who Is DeWitt Algorri & Algorri?

DeWitt Algorri & Algorri is a trial law firm with deep roots in California and a respected reputation in the legal community. They are known for taking on complex, high-stakes personal injury—and winning. Their attorneys are thoughtful, strategic, and relentless advocates for their clients. Most importantly, they care deeply about the people they serve.

Their approach aligns closely with our values at Fielding Law: professionalism, civility, and kindness. Like us, they do not cut corners, and they never lose sight of the real people behind the case files.

Why We Trust Their Expertise

When our clients’ cases call for added firepower or unique legal strategies, we do not hesitate to bring in the team at DeWitt Algorri & Algorri. Their expertise complements ours. We value:

  • Their decades of experience in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases

  • Their trial readiness and strong courtroom presence

  • Their deep knowledge of California personal injury law

  • Their collaborative spirit and clear communication

  • Their proven results in high-value claims

Why It Matters for Our Clients

Strong partnerships translate to stronger outcomes. Whether we are preparing for trial or building a complex legal strategy, having a trusted team like DeWitt Algorri & Algorri by our side helps ensure that no detail is overlooked and no opportunity is missed.

Our clients deserve the best possible representation. By working together, we amplify each other’s strengths and bring every available resource to the table—because your case matters, and the results matter.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we are not just your attorneys—we are your advocates, and we surround ourselves with partners who share our mission. Our trusted relationship with DeWitt Algorri & Algorri reflects our commitment to doing what it takes to pursue justice for the injured. If you or a loved one has been harmed due to negligence, 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.

row of shoes at a store

Back-To-School Shopping Gone Wrong

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

It is that time of year again, gearing up for that fresh start with new pencils, clothes, and backpacks as we prepare to head back to school. While this season brings plenty of excitement, it can also come with potential injuries in the least likely places, such as stores. Take a moment to consider the risks that come with back-to-school shopping.

Possible Injury Scenarios

  • Slip and Fall: Wet floors, such as those recently mopped in stores, can pose a serious fall risk if not clearly marked. Similarly, slips or trips can take place in parking lots/garages from oil spills or wet surfaces. Stay alert and aware.
  • Parking Garage Accidents: Unfortunately, during the busy season, drivers may sometimes overlook rules or laws, increasing the risk of accidents.
  • Pedestrian Accidents: As highlighted above, drivers are in a rush at the start of the school year. Keep your young ones within sight and sound to prevent crosswalk accidents and walk defensively.
  • Shelving and Display Objects/Falling Objects: With so much happening on the sales floor, it is understandable that employees may become overwhelmed with tasks. However, when shelves, mannequins, or displays are not properly secured or maintained, they can create serious safety hazards. Customers may be at risk of injury from falling objects or unstable setups.
  • Escalator or Elevator Accidents: A poorly maintained escalator can cause a shopper’s shoe or clothing to get caught or lead to tripping. Faulty elevators may trap customers for long periods. Without proper upkeep, these common features can quickly become serious safety hazards.
  • Overcrowding: Without proper security and thoughtful crowd management, shopping centers during the back-to-school season can quickly become overwhelming. This increases the risk of pushing, shoving, and unfortunate injuries, especially for young children who are more vulnerable in crowded spaces.

Do I Need an Attorney for This?

In situations like these, many shoppers feel that the injury is no big deal or that they are partially at fault. Some even believe they lack the legal resources to seek justice if they have experienced any form of negligence. At Fielding Law, we want you to know that the negligent harm you or a loved one has undergone while shopping deserves to be taken seriously. If you have a case, we are here with the expertise and resources to guide you through the legal process.

Why Choose Fielding Law

If you have been injured while shopping, do not be afraid to reach us for a free no-obligation consultation at 833.88.SHARK. You and your loved ones deserve peace of mind, protection, and the support to move forward with confidence.

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

People gathered on a trail with bikes in the woods

Why Accidents Spike in the Summer

By Boating Accident, Car Accident, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Personal Watercraft (PWC) Accident, RV Accident

Summer is a time for travel and making memories, but it also means heavier traffic on California and Arizona roads. With school out and many families taking well-earned time off, the highways get busier than usual. It is important to stay patient and alert so everyone can get to where they are going safely.

Specialty Crafts

RV Accidents – RVs are heavier, slower to stop, and harder to maneuver than regular vehicles. Drivers who are unfamiliar with operating a large vehicle may misjudge turns, fail to check blind spots, or cause rollover accidents. Inexperienced drivers also may not account for height restrictions when traveling under bridges or through tunnels.

Boating Accidents

Arizona and California both see a surge in water activity during summer. Lakes, rivers, and coastal areas are packed with boats. Many watercraft operators are inexperienced or under the influence, leading to collisions and serious injuries.

Personal Watercraft PWC

In addition to boats, the waters of California and Arizona waters are often crowded with personal watercrafts like Jet Skis. Many of these are operated by younger individuals who may lack experience, especially since they do not ride them year-round.

Teen Drivers

Summer break means more teen drivers are behind the wheel, and with limited experience, they pose a higher risk on the road. Teens are also highly impressionable and often model their driving habits after their guardians. When parents engage in risky behaviors, they set a dangerous example that their kids are likely to follow.

Road Construction

During the summer months, longer daylight hours and favorable weather create ideal conditions for road construction. While this work is important, it can lead to increased traffic, frustrated and impatient drivers, and new traffic patterns causing accidents.

Pedestrians

Summer brings festivals, concerts, and outdoor markets, which creates more foot traffic in cities. Popular destinations like Disneyland surge visitors, resulting in more drivers on the road traveling to and from these attractions.

Impaired and Distracted Drivers

Summer gatherings like parties and backyard barbeques a beloved tradition, but they often coincide with an increase in drunk or impaired driving, especially during nighttime hours. Additionally, many drivers become distracted by looking at their phones for directions or texting and calling for more information.

Why Hire Fielding Law

The attorneys at Fielding Law know that accidents can turn your life upside down, especially during what should be a relaxing time of the year. Whether you have been injured as a driver, pedestrian, or passenger, you do not have to do the aftermath alone. Contact us today at 833.88.SHARK for compassionate and professional guidance.

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

Doctor in white coat with stethoscope holding a red book

What Is the Glasgow Coma Scale?

By Brain Injury (TBI), Car Accident, Personal Injury, Slip or Trip and Fall, Spinal Cord Injury

The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) is a neurological tool used by medical professionals to quickly assess a person’s level of consciousness after a brain injury. Developed in the 1970s, the GCS remains one of the most trusted methods for evaluating injury severity in emergency and hospital settings.

How the Glasgow Coma Scale Works

The GCS evaluates three key areas of response:

  • Eye-opening response: Ranges from no eye opening to spontaneous eye opening.

  • Verbal response: Measures speech clarity, orientation, or the absence of verbal response.

  • Motor response: Assesses physical reactions, from no movement to obeying commands.

Each category has a scoring system, and the total GCS score ranges from 3 to 15.

What the Scores Mean

  • 13 to 15: Mild brain injury; person is conscious and responsive.

  • 9 to 12: Moderate brain injury; some impairment of consciousness.

  • 3 to 8: Severe brain injury; coma or unconscious state.

A lower GCS score typically indicates a more serious brain injury and may require intensive medical intervention.

Why the Glasgow Coma Scale Matters in Brain Injury Cases

The Glasgow Coma Scale brain injury score is often used by injury attorneys and medical experts to:

This objective measurement provides crucial evidence when pursuing a personal injury claim related to brain trauma.

Why Hire Fielding Law

Brain injuries can drastically change a person’s life. At Fielding Law, we understand the medical complexities involved, including the importance of tools like the Glasgow Coma Scale. Our experienced team works closely with medical professionals to build strong cases based on accurate injury assessment and lasting impact.

If you or a loved one has suffered a brain injury, call 833.88.SHARK anytime for a free, no-obligation consultation available 24/7.

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

Aqua colored water background. with text that reads Fielding Law 6 Year Anniversary. Integrity & Tenacity

6 Years of Fielding Law

By Firm News and Celebrations, Personal Injury

The Fielding Law 6-year anniversary is more than a milestone — it is a reflection of years of hard work, meaningful results, and deep gratitude. Since day one, our mission has been simple: serve injured clients with compassion, capability, and integrity. Six years later, that mission continues to guide everything we do.

A Year of Growth and Recognition

Over the past year, we reached exciting new milestones — including transitioning into a larger office space to support our growing team and better serve clients across California and Arizona.

Founder Clark Fielding was recognized not once, but twice in Modern Luxury’s Riviera OC magazine for his leadership and impact in the personal injury space. He was also featured as a guest on the One Thousand Gurus podcast, where he shared insights on client care, leadership, and purpose-driven law.

Investing in the Community

Giving back remains core to who we are. This year, we proudly supported young athletes across Southern California with sponsorships that include:

Grateful for Our Clients

Above all, the Fielding Law 6-year anniversary is a celebration of the people who trust us during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. We are deeply grateful for our clients’ support, referrals, testimonials, and confidence in our work.

Every review, every thank-you, every shared success fuels our purpose.

“Amazing team
The whole team that helped me throughout my whole case were wonderful. Every single one of them was kind and caring.”

Natalee | Clark H. Fielding’s Avvo


“Clark and his team at Fielding Law were outstanding from start to finish. After I was rear-ended, I was left dealing with both vehicle damage and personal injuries. They responded quickly, ensuring I received the medical attention I needed and kept me informed every step of the way. Throughout the entire process, they advocated for me with dedication and professionalism.”

Zachary | Fielding Law – Google California Office


“Won’t find a more caring & professional law firm than the people at Fielding Law. From the receptionists to the lawyers, they checked up on my health & recovery often & we never even discussed money or strategy the first year & a half after I retained them. They only asked about my treatment & doctor’s appointments whenever we conferenced on the phone.”

Chad | Fielding Law – Google California Office


“Special thank you to Clark and the Fielding Law team enough their outstanding work on my mother’s accident injury case. From the very beginning, their communication was exceptional. They always kept us informed every step of the way, explaining complex legal matters in a way that was easy to understand.”

Philip | Fielding Law – Yelp Arizona Office

Celebrating Our Team

We could not do this without our incredible team. From scenic hikes and daily walks to recharge, to ice cream socials, office potlucks, and even a Christmas cookie decorating party, we continue to invest in our culture.

Whether it is a casual soda pop bar or a quick walk around the block, we believe small moments build strong camaraderie. Our team’s bond, energy, and kindness are a big part of what makes Fielding Law feel like home.

Why Hire Fielding Law

When you choose Fielding Law, you are choosing a team that combines legal excellence with genuine empathy. We know how overwhelming an injury can be, and we are here to walk beside you every step of the way. If you or a loved one has been injured, call 833.88.SHARK to connect with our caring team.

Looking Ahead

The Fielding Law 6-year anniversary is a proud milestone — and just the beginning. With every case, every client, and every challenge, we are committed to continuing to rise together.

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

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.

4 people in black clothing at a gravesite

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Arizona?

By Personal Injury, Wrongful Death

Losing someone suddenly is always devastating—but when that loss is caused by someone else’s negligence, it can feel even more painful. In Arizona, certain family members may have the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit to seek justice and compensation.

Knowing who is eligible and what a claim includes can help you understand your legal rights and take the next step toward healing.

Who Is Allowed to File in Arizona?

Under Arizona law, only specific people may file a wrongful death lawsuit. These include:

  • The surviving spouse of the deceased

  • The children of the deceased

  • The parent or guardian of the deceased

  • The personal representative of the estate, on behalf of these family members

If none of the above individuals are available, the personal representative of the estate can pursue the claim to benefit the estate or next of kin.

How Wrongful Death Differs From a Survival Action

Arizona law recognizes two types of civil actions after a death:

Wrongful death claims are filed by family members to recover for their own losses due to the death, such as loss of financial support, companionship, and emotional suffering.

Survival actions, on the other hand, are filed by the deceased person’s estate to recover for damages the person suffered before passing away—such as pain and suffering, medical bills, or lost wages during that period.

Both types of claims can sometimes be brought together, depending on the circumstances.

Damages Available in a Wrongful Death Claim

Arizona law allows eligible family members to recover both economic and non-economic damages. These may include:

  • Funeral and burial expenses

  • Loss of the deceased’s income or financial support

  • Loss of care, guidance, and companionship

  • Emotional pain and suffering

  • Medical expenses related to the final injury or illness (if part of a survival action)

The specific damages depend on the relationship between the deceased and the person filing, as well as the nature of the loss.

Why Hire Fielding Law

Wrongful death cases are deeply emotional, legally complex, and time-sensitive. At Fielding Law, we help grieving families understand their rights and pursue fair compensation with compassion and care. Our team works with top experts to prove liability, calculate losses, and hold the responsible parties accountable.

If you have questions about who can file a wrongful death lawsuit in Arizona, let us guide you through every step.

Call Fielding Law at 833.88.SHARK for a free and confidential consultation.

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

Brain injury scan by an expert doctor on a tablet

Expert Help for Brain Injuries

By Brain Injury (TBI), Personal Injury, Spinal Cord Injury

Why Brain Injury Cases Require Expert Testimony

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are some of the most misunderstood and misjudged injuries in personal injury law. A person can appear “fine” after an accident, only to face serious symptoms days or weeks later—symptoms that disrupt memory, mood, and daily functioning.

In many cases, success hinges on expert testimony in brain injury cases. Medical experts, neuropsychologists, and life care planners help explain how a TBI has affected the individual and what kind of care will be needed long-term.

The Role of Neuropsychologists

Brain injuries often go beyond what scans can show. Neuropsychologists conduct in-depth evaluations that assess how the brain functions after a traumatic event. These evaluations focus on:

  • Short- and long-term memory

  • Processing speed and attention span

  • Problem-solving and judgment

  • Emotional regulation

  • Language and coordination

By identifying cognitive and psychological challenges, neuropsychologists provide expert testimony that supports the true impact of the brain injury. Their findings can be crucial when symptoms are invisible or misunderstood by the defense.

How Life Care Planners Help Prove Damages

Once the injury is diagnosed and understood, life care planners help paint the picture of what the future looks like. These experts develop customized plans that include:

  • Future medical appointments and testing

  • Cognitive or physical therapy needs

  • Long-term medications

  • In-home care or transportation services

  • Necessary lifestyle adjustments or home modifications

Life care planners also estimate the total cost of care over the client’s lifetime. This helps ensure a settlement or verdict accounts for both current and future expenses.

Why Expert Testimony Is Critical

Expert testimony in brain injury cases provides more than just opinions—it offers credibility, clarity, and connection. It gives a voice to injuries that may not be visible but are deeply felt. This type of testimony is especially important when:

  • The defense claims your symptoms are exaggerated

  • Imaging scans are normal

  • Symptoms involve mood or behavior changes

  • Insurance companies deny or minimize the injury

Without expert guidance, it can be difficult to prove the lasting toll of a brain injury.

Why Hire Fielding Law

Brain injuries change lives, and so do the people who stand up for those affected. At Fielding Law, we know how to present powerful cases backed by expert testimony. We work with respected neuropsychologists, life care planners, and other professionals to make sure the full story is told—clearly, compassionately, and effectively.

We do not just fight for compensation. We fight for your future.

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.

Close Menu