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Personal Injury

person looking at Uber app in phone

Uber’s Contingency Fee Cap Proposal in California

By Personal Injury, Rideshare Accident

What Is Uber’s Contingency Fee Cap Initiative?

Uber is supporting a proposed law in California that would limit how much attorneys can collect in contingency fees when representing clients in injury cases. A contingency fee allows someone to hire a lawyer without paying upfront. The lawyer only gets paid if the case is successful.

Uber is presenting this proposal as a way to “help victims keep more of their settlements.” While that may sound helpful, the measure is written in a misleading way. The real result could make it harder for accident victims to find legal help at all.

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.

How This Could Affect Uber Riders

Even riders who have never been in an accident could feel the effects.

  • Less Accountability for Safety
    If Uber faces fewer lawsuits, there is less motivation to maintain strict safety policies or properly vet drivers.

  • Reduced Insurance Coverage
    Recent changes have already lowered the insurance coverage Uber provides in California for certain accidents. This means riders could receive less compensation if injured.

  • More Risk on the Public
    When victims cannot recover from the company at fault, the cost often shifts to the victim’s own insurance or public health programs.

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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Standing Against Unethical Legal Practices

By Personal Injury, Sexual Assault & Abuse

Protecting Victims and Upholding Integrity

A recent Los Angeles Times investigation revealed disturbing allegations of unethical and illegal conduct by individuals who claimed to help sexual abuse victims file lawsuits under California’s AB 218. The report described how middlemen allegedly exploited survivors for profit instead of offering genuine legal support. These actions not only harm those already suffering but also undermine the trust and integrity of the entire legal system. At Fielding Law, we believe every person deserves honest and ethical representation.

Why Ethical Legal Practice Matters

Ethics form the foundation of justice. When attorneys or intermediaries engage in misconduct such as “capping” (illegally soliciting clients), it violates state law and the public’s trust. These unethical actions prioritize profit over people and can prevent victims from receiving the fair representation they deserve.

Fielding Law operates with the belief that the legal profession must always serve clients’ best interests. We maintain transparency, respect client confidentiality, and never engage in referral schemes or unlawful solicitation. We hold ourselves and our partners to the highest ethical standards because justice should never come at the expense of integrity.

Holding the Legal Industry Accountable

Every survivor seeking justice should feel confident that their attorney is motivated by compassion, not greed. Unethical practices such as capping exploit pain for profit and create lasting harm beyond the original trauma.

By exposing these unethical actions, investigations like the one reported by the Los Angeles Times remind all law firms to uphold integrity and accountability. Fielding Law supports these efforts and encourages anyone seeking justice to work with trusted, licensed professionals who operate transparently and lawfully.

How Fielding Law Can Help Victims

Choosing an attorney is one of the most important decisions an injured person can make. At Fielding Law, we approach every case with compassion, honesty, and respect. Our team believes that ethical conduct is non-negotiable. While we do not represent clients in sexual abuse cases, we can help victims find trustworthy attorneys who do.

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

October 16, 2025
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Fake Lawyer Ads Are Giving Real Attorneys a Bad Name

By 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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People reaching through the door of a haunted house

Haunted House Legal Nightmares

By Brain Injury (TBI), Burn Injury, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Premises Liability, Slip or Trip and Fall, Wrongful Death

When Thrills Turn Into Injuries

Haunted houses are designed to scare, but no one expects to leave with a serious injury. From poorly lit stairwells to unsafe props, a night meant for fun can quickly become dangerous. If you are injured in a haunted house, it is important to understand your rights and know the steps to take to protect them.

Who May Be Liable for Haunted House Injuries

Haunted houses fall under premises liability law in both California and Arizona. The property owner, event operator, or even a third-party vendor may be held responsible if their negligence caused the injury. Examples include:

These hazards can result in severe injuries such as fractures, concussions, or emotional trauma.

When Other Guests Cause Injuries

Not every haunted house injury comes directly from unsafe conditions. Sometimes another guest may panic, run, and knock someone over. Event operators still have a duty to prepare for this foreseeable risk. Haunted attractions are designed to frighten people, so it is reasonable to expect that some visitors may run, push, or collide with others.

If the operator fails to provide adequate lighting, safe walkways, or staff to manage crowd movement, they may still be liable. For example, injuries can occur if groups are allowed to move too closely together or if paths are too dark and narrow for safe passage. Even when another guest caused the initial contact, the operator’s negligence in managing the environment may have contributed to the accident.

Liability Waivers: Do They Always Protect the Business

Most haunted houses require guests to sign liability waivers. These documents are meant to limit the property owner’s responsibility for injuries. However, a waiver does not give businesses permission to act negligently. In both California and Arizona, waivers cannot protect against gross negligence or willful misconduct. If an operator ignored obvious safety risks, you may still have a claim even if you signed a waiver.

What To Do If You Are Injured in a Haunted House

Taking the right steps immediately after an accident can strengthen your claim:

  1. Report the incident: Notify staff or management right away and request a written report.

  2. Document the scene: Take photos of where the injury happened, including any hazards or unsafe conditions.

  3. Gather witness information: Ask for names and contact details of anyone who saw what happened.

  4. Seek medical attention: Even if injuries seem minor, a medical record can link the accident to your injuries.

  5. Avoid signing further documents: Do not sign statements or agreements beyond the initial waiver without legal advice.

Next Steps After a Haunted House Accident

Once you have reported and documented the incident, the next step is to speak with a personal injury attorney. An attorney can investigate liability, review the enforceability of the waiver, and communicate with insurance companies on your behalf.

Why Hire Fielding Law

If you were injured in a haunted house, Fielding Law can help. Our team understands the complexities of premises liability and how waiver laws apply in both California and Arizona. We provide compassionate, capable representation and will work tirelessly to hold negligent businesses accountable. Call 833.88.SHARK today to learn how we can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

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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Ryan giving pre-law advice at USD

Fielding Law’s Ryan Cooper Shares Pre-Law Advice at USD

By In the Community, Personal Injury

At Fielding Law, we are passionate about sharing our knowledge and experiences to help the next generation of legal professionals. The path to a legal career can feel overwhelming, especially for those just starting out. We strive to provide pre-law advice, mentorship for future lawyers, and honest insight whenever possible. Supporting future law students in even small ways helps make the journey more manageable and less isolating.

Ryan giving pre-law advice at USDConnecting With USD Pre-Law Students

On October 8, 2025, our own Ryan Cooper had the opportunity to give back by speaking to the USD Pre-Law Fraternity. The event gave students a chance to hear from a practicing personal injury attorney about his journey and the realities of law school. It was a meaningful opportunity to connect with future legal professionals and help ease some of the uncertainty that comes with entering this field.

Ryan’s Journey to Law

Ryan shared his personal story, including his education, career path, and what led him to specialize in personal injury law. His biggest piece of advice for aspiring law students: “Take your notes by hand.” He offered practical insights for students considering a legal career and emphasized the importance of resilience, ethics, and dedication. By sharing his experiences, Ryan provided valuable guidance to help students navigate their own paths in law.

Practical Tips for Aspiring Lawyers

We encourage students to seek out internship opportunities early in their law school journey, as these experiences offer valuable exposure to the realities of legal practice. Internships can also help students discover which areas of law resonate most with them. Networking with attorneys, mentors, and other professionals is another step we urge students to take. Building these connections can open doors and help shape a more confident career path.

Why Fielding Law Supports Future Lawyers

We value every opportunity to connect with aspiring legal professionals and are always happy to support students exploring a future in law. By sharing real-world insights and guidance, we help students understand how legal theory translates into practice.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we believe that great legal representation begins with compassion, integrity, and education. Whether we are mentoring future attorneys or helping clients through difficult times, our goal remains the same: to improve lives through ethical and effective legal service.

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

October 14, 2025
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Waymo autonomous vehicle on a road

What to Know About Waymo Insurance

By Car Accident, Personal Injury, Rideshare Accident

What is Waymo?

Waymo develops self-driving cars as part of Alphabet. It began as a Google project and now offers robotaxi services in cities like Phoenix, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. These vehicles transport the public without a human driver, and Waymo continues to expand its fleet.

What Are Autonomous Rideshare Vehicles?

Autonomous rideshare vehicles drive themselves using cameras, sensors, radar, and artificial intelligence. They follow traffic laws, avoid obstacles, and navigate city streets. Although they are designed to reduce accidents, crashes can still happen. If you are injured, an autonomous rideshare lawyer can guide you through the claims process.

Who is Protected by the $5 Million Policy?

California requires autonomous rideshares like Waymo to carry a $5 million insurance policy. This coverage protects both passengers and others on the road:

  • Riders/passengers: The policy pays medical bills, lost wages, and other damages if a passenger is hurt.

  • Other drivers and their passengers: The policy covers injuries or property damage caused by the autonomous vehicle.

  • Pedestrians and cyclists: The policy also protects anyone injured outside the vehicle.

An autonomous rideshare lawyer can help ensure the insurance company provides the compensation you deserve.

Why It Matters for You

  • Accidents may involve passengers, pedestrians, or other drivers.

  • A $5 million policy gives a safety net for serious injuries.

  • Knowing this coverage exists can help you feel more secure when using an autonomous rideshare.

Safety Data and Realities

Waymo reports that its self-driving cars cause fewer accidents than human drivers. Studies show fewer injuries and crashes per mile. However, accidents still occur. If you are hurt, statistics cannot protect you. This is why speaking with an autonomous rideshare lawyer is important.

Why Hire Fielding Law

If you were injured in a Waymo or other autonomous rideshare, you need a law firm experienced with this technology. Fielding Law investigates accidents, negotiates with insurance companies, and fights for victims. Our team listens to your story and guides you through every step. Call 833.88.SHARK to schedule 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.

October 14, 2025
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Creepy person standing in the dark with a light behind them

Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights: I Signed a Waiver — Can I Still Make a Claim?

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

Understanding Waivers at Halloween Horror Nights

Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights is one of the most popular and thrilling Halloween events. Many attendees love the scares and immersive experiences. However, before entering, guests often must sign waivers or agreements meant to limit the park’s liability.

But what does signing a waiver really mean? Does it prevent you from making a legal claim if you get injured during the event?

What Is a Waiver?

A waiver is a legal document where you acknowledge certain risks and agree to give up the right to sue for injuries resulting from those risks. These are common at high-risk events, like haunted houses or extreme amusement park attractions.

Waivers Do Not Always Bar Claims

If negligence or misconduct caused your injury, an experienced Halloween Horror Nights injury lawyer can help determine whether you have a case despite signing a waiver. In California and Arizona, waivers generally do not protect companies from liability for:

  • Gross negligence (extreme carelessness or reckless conduct)

  • Intentional harm

  • Defective equipment or unsafe premises beyond assumed risks

If your injury was caused by the event’s negligence—such as poor maintenance, inadequate safety measures, or employee misconduct—a waiver may not fully protect Universal Studios.

Common Injuries at Halloween Horror Nights

While many visitors enjoy the excitement safely, injuries can and do happen. Some common types of injuries reported at Halloween Horror Nights include:

If you experienced one of these injuries or another harm during the event, a Halloween Horror Nights injury lawyer can help evaluate your case.

What Should You Do If You Are Injured?

If you were hurt at Halloween Horror Nights despite signing a waiver, it is important to:

A skilled lawyer can review your waiver and circumstances to determine if you still have a valid claim.

Why Hire Fielding Law

If you or a loved one suffered an injury at Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights, do not assume the waiver ends your legal options. Fielding Law has experience handling event injury claims in California and Arizona. We provide kind, capable guidance through this complex area of law. To discuss your case, 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.

October 13, 2025
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person driving for a rideshare service

Rideshare Law Changes in California

By Car Accident, Personal Injury, Rideshare Accident

Rideshare Law Changes in California

California has introduced a new rideshare law that impacts Uber and Lyft passengers as well as drivers. These updates change insurance requirements and expand rights for drivers, which means both benefits and challenges for riders.

Reduced Insurance Coverage for Riders

In the past, Uber and Lyft had to provide up to $1 million in uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. This coverage protected passengers if another driver causes the crash but does not have enough insurance. The new California rideshare law reduces that amount to $60,000 per person and $300,000 per accident.

For passengers, this is a major shift. A serious accident can leave medical bills and recovery costs that exceed the new limits. Riders may need to turn to their own auto or health insurance policies for additional coverage.

Drivers Gain the Right to Unionize

The new law also grants drivers the ability to form unions and bargain for better wages and benefits. This step could help improve working conditions and create more stability in the rideshare industry. However, drivers will remain independent contractors under existing California rulings.

What This Means for Passengers

While lower costs for rides may follow these changes, riders face reduced protections if an accident occurs. At the same time, stronger driver rights could improve reliability. For passengers, the new California rideshare law is a reminder to be aware of how accident protections have shifted.

Why Hire Fielding Law

If you are hurt in an Uber or Lyft accident, you should not face the confusing legal system alone. At Fielding Law, our attorneys understand California and Arizona rideshare accident laws. We can explain how the new California rideshare law impacts your case and help you seek the compensation you deserve.

Call 833.88.SHARK today for a free consultation about your rideshare accident.

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

October 10, 2025
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People at a Halloween event outside with costumes on

Halloween-Themed Events: Who is Responsible for Safety?

By Personal Injury, Premises Liability

Legal Considerations for Organizers and Attendees

Halloween brings a season of themed parties, haunted houses, trunk-or-treat events, and community festivals. While these celebrations can be fun and festive, they also carry unique risks. Knowing when to contact a Halloween event injury lawyer can make all the difference in protecting your rights. Both event organizers and attendees have responsibilities when it comes to safety — and when those responsibilities are neglected, injuries can occur.

Responsibilities of Event Organizers

Organizers have a duty of care to ensure their premises and activities are reasonably safe for guests. This applies whether the event is held at a private venue, public park, or residential property. Common safety measures may include:

  • Adequate lighting in walkways and entrances

  • Clear and visible signage for exits

  • Well-secured props and decorations

  • Sufficient crowd control and supervision

  • Safe pathways free of tripping hazards

In California and Arizona, failure to maintain a safe environment can result in premises liability claims. If a guest is injured due to hazards that could have been prevented, the organizer may be held legally responsible.

Responsibilities of Attendees

Guests also play a role in event safety. Attendees should:

  • Follow posted rules and instructions from event staff

  • Avoid reckless behavior that could endanger themselves or others

  • Wear costumes that do not impair vision or movement

  • Remain aware of their surroundings, especially in dark or crowded areas

While an attendee’s negligence does not excuse an unsafe condition created by an organizer, it can affect how liability is determined in an injury claim.

Common Halloween Event Risks

Halloween-themed events can involve hazards not seen at other times of year. Examples include:

  • Fog machines reducing visibility

  • Dim lighting creating tripping hazards

  • Props and decorations blocking pathways

  • Loud noises startling guests and causing falls

  • Slippery surfaces from drink spills or outdoor weather

Preventing these risks often requires both proactive planning and active monitoring during the event.

Why Hire Fielding Law

If you or a loved one was injured due to unsafe conditions or poor planning, Fielding Law, your Halloween event injury lawyer, can help. Our experienced attorneys are familiar with the specific laws in California and Arizona that govern event-related injuries. We take a compassionate yet capable approach to every case, working to ensure you receive the legal support you deserve. To discuss your situation, 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.

October 9, 2025
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Why OCTLA Membership Matters for You

By Firm News and Celebrations, Personal Injury

Why OCTLA Membership Matters for You

At Fielding Law, we are committed to providing every client with skilled, ethical, and compassionate representation. One way we uphold this commitment is through active involvement in professional organizations. Clark Fielding, Ryan Cooper, and Brian Yee are proud members of the Orange County Trial Lawyers Association (OCTLA). This membership is more than a professional credential. It reflects our dedication to ongoing learning and to protecting the rights of injury victims.

What is OCTLA?

The Orange County Trial Lawyers Association is a respected organization that supports trial attorneys through education, networking, and advocacy. Members gain access to the latest legal strategies, updates on changing laws, and opportunities to collaborate with other top attorneys in California.

For clients, this means your attorney is not working in isolation. They connect with a network of skilled professionals who share resources, insights, and experiences to strengthen each case.

How OCTLA Membership Benefits Our Clients

When you work with a lawyer who is an OCTLA member, you gain:

  • Up-to-date legal knowledge: Our attorneys stay informed on evolving laws and trial strategies.

  • A network of support: Membership provides access to a community of attorneys committed to justice.

  • Advocacy for your rights: OCTLA promotes policies that protect injury victims in California.

  • Commitment to excellence: Membership signals dedication to the highest professional standards.

Clark, Brian, and Ryan’s OCTLA membership ensures that clients benefit from resources and knowledge that can make a difference in personal injury cases.

Learn How Fielding Law Has Helped Thousands of Injured People

At Fielding Law, we believe our clients deserve trusted, capable, and caring representation. Our attorneys’ involvement in OCTLA reflects our commitment to staying at the forefront of personal injury law. Whether you are facing medical bills after a car accident, a wrongful death claim, or another injury case, our team is prepared to guide you with strength and compassion.

Call 833.88.SHARK today to speak with an attorney who is committed to fighting for your recovery.

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

October 8, 2025
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