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Personal Injury

Doctor with stethoscope around neck in green scrubs with arms crossed

Why Is Treating So Important to My Case?

By Personal Injury

Why Medical Treatment Matters After an Accident

Treatment in personal injury cases is critical for both your health and your legal claim. After an accident, you may feel tempted to put off seeing a doctor, especially if your pain seems minor. However, getting immediate care and following through with treatment provides vital protection for your body and strengthens your case.

Protecting Your Health

Many injuries do not reveal their full extent right away. Whiplash, concussions, and internal injuries can worsen if left untreated. Receiving medical treatment promptly allows doctors to catch hidden injuries and guide your recovery safely.

Establishing a Record of Your Injuries

Medical records form the foundation of treatment in personal injury cases. They prove the timing, severity, and ongoing effects of your injuries. Without consistent documentation, insurance companies may argue that your injuries are unrelated to the accident.

Showing Consistency and Commitment

Courts and insurance adjusters often evaluate whether an injured person followed medical advice. Gaps in treatment can harm your case, while consistent medical care shows that you are serious about your recovery and your claim.

Supporting the Value of Your Claim

Medical treatment also influences the financial side of your case. Regular care documents the true costs of your injuries, including doctor visits, therapy, and future care needs. These records help determine the compensation you may be entitled to receive.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we know how essential treatment in personal injury cases is to building a strong claim. Our team works closely with clients to ensure medical evidence is presented clearly and powerfully. We care about both your recovery and your future. If you or a loved one has been injured, 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.

September 29, 2025
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Students looking at test tubes in a laboratory

What to Do After a Laboratory Injury Happens

By Personal Injury, Premises Liability, Public Entity

Science labs should be a place of discovery—not danger. Unfortunately, when safety is ignored, these environments can lead to serious harm. This is why high school labs require strict supervision, thorough training, and clear protocols. When these standards are overlooked, the results can be devastating.  

Real Stories, Real Injuries

These real-world examples underscore how quickly a simple chemistry lesson can intensify into a medical emergency. That is why proper equipment, genuine supervision, and safety training are essential, not optional. 

Marietta, Georgia – December 2023

Two high school girls suffered chemical burns during a routine lab experiment involving sulfuric acid and magnesium. They were rushed to the hospital with visible injuries. (USA Today)

Malvern, Iowa (WOWT) – October 2023

An explosion during a science experiment in an Iowa classroom sent two students to the hospital with burn injuries. (First Alert 6)

Berlin, CT (WFSB) – November 2024

A science experiment conducted at Berlin High School went awry, causing a gas leak serious enough to send a teacher and a student to the hospital. (Eyewitness News) 

What Questions Should Parents Be Asking?

Parents should stay informed about the safety protocols in their child’s high school science laboratory. Doing so helps hold schools accountable and reinforces the importance of protective measures for students.

  • Do students receive formal lab safety training at the beginning of the year? 
  • What qualifications or training do teachers have to supervise lab experiments?
  • How are students supervised during experiments? 
  • Are instructors providing goggles, lab coats, and gloves? 
  • What is the school’s emergency response plan in the event of a lab accident? 

Your Laboratory Injury Attorney 

At Fielding Law, your child’s safety matters to us. We know how helpless it can feel when your child is hurt in a place that is supposed to protect them. If your child sustained a laboratory injury at school, you do not have to face the aftermath alone. Our team is here to help you understand your rights and explore your options. Call us at 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.

September 26, 2025
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Clark Fielding sitting on a sofa for Top Lawyers

Clark H. Fielding Recognized Among Orange County’s Top Lawyers

By Firm News and Celebrations, Personal Injury

Clark H. Fielding, founding principal of Fielding Law, has been recognized as one of Orange County’s Top Lawyers in the October edition of Modern Luxury Riviera OC Magazine. This award highlights Clark’s dedication to providing skilled, compassionate legal representation to clients facing personal injury challenges. Click to read Clark’s feature.

Clark Fielding feature Top Lawyers in Riviera OC Fielding Law Recognized Across Orange County

In addition to Clark’s individual recognition, Fielding Law received several honors in 2025:

These accolades reflect the firm’s commitment to excellence, strategic advocacy, and client-focused service. They also highlight Fielding Law’s dedication to positively impacting both the legal community and the local area.

Commitment to Clients

Clark H. Fielding and the team at Fielding Law prioritize client care at every step. From the first consultation through case resolution, the firm ensures that clients receive guidance, attention, and assertive advocacy. These honors reinforce the firm’s reputation for professionalism, integrity, and ethical legal service.

Why Hire Fielding Law

Choosing Fielding Law means partnering with attorneys who are experienced, empathetic, and focused on achieving the best possible outcome. Our team provides thorough case evaluation, aggressive advocacy, and clear communication. We help clients navigate complex personal injury matters with confidence.

To schedule a consultation with Fielding Law, 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.

September 23, 2025
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social media influencer standing in the middle of a street with a sunset in the background

Chasing the Perfect Image: Influencer Street Accident

By Car Accident, Catastrophic Injury, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Public Entity, Wrongful Death

According to KTLA, Instagram personality Ben Bruno recently posted a video of a Beverly Hills street where at least 22 people were posing in the middle of traffic. Vehicles slowed or stopped as influencers turned a public street into a photo backdrop.

While it may look entertaining online, standing in an active roadway is extremely dangerous. Roads are meant for vehicles and safe pedestrian crossings, not for photo sessions. When those rules are ignored, an influencer street accident can occur with serious injuries or worse.

Why This Behavior Creates Risk

Influencers and onlookers may not realize the danger of blocking traffic. Drivers cannot always anticipate sudden obstacles in the road. Common risks include:

Even a single mistake can cause catastrophic injury.

Who Could Be Liable in a Collision

If a driver struck someone blocking the street, several parties could face responsibility.

The influencer or organizer

Directing people into a street may be considered negligent. Organizers can be held responsible for creating unsafe conditions that could lead to an influencer street accident.

The participants

Those posing in the road may share fault for their own injuries. California and Arizona follow comparative negligence rules, which allow liability to be divided among multiple parties.

The driver

A driver who was speeding, distracted, or failing to follow traffic laws could also be found at fault.

The city

In limited cases, the city might share liability if poor signage, lighting, or lack of enforcement contributed to the danger. Government liability is often difficult to prove.

The Legal Risks of Dangerous Content

Influencers may underestimate the legal and financial consequences of content created in unsafe places. Blocking a public street can result in fines, civil lawsuits, or criminal charges. Insurance companies may deny coverage if conduct is reckless or illegal.

For drivers, these situations create unfair risk. Even a careful driver may face a costly legal dispute if they hit someone standing in the road, creating an influencer street accident scenario.

Why Hire Fielding Law

If you or a loved one has been injured, you need guidance from an experienced accident lawyer. Fielding Law has helped thousands of injured people in California and Arizona with compassion, professionalism, and determination. Our team will investigate your case, determine liability, and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Call 833.88.SHARK today to schedule a free consultation with Fielding Law.

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

September 18, 2025
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Dog sitting on a lawn

Arizona’s Dog Bite Law Explained

By Dog / Animal Bite, Personal Injury, Premises Liability

Understanding Arizona’s Dog Bite Statute

Dog bites can cause serious physical and emotional injuries—especially to children. Arizona law gives bite victims strong legal rights under A.R.S. § 11-1025, which holds dog owners strictly liable when their dog bites someone in public or lawfully on private property.

Strict liability means that the victim does not need to prove that the dog had a history of aggression or that the owner was negligent. If a dog bites, the owner is responsible.

When the Law Applies

Arizona’s strict liability dog bite law applies when:

  • The victim is in a public place or

  • The victim is lawfully on private property, such as a guest, postal worker, or delivery driver

The law does not apply if the victim was trespassing or provoking the dog. In those cases, the owner may have a defense.

This statute applies even if the dog has never bitten before and has no known history of aggression.

Key Differences from California

Although similar to California’s law, Arizona’s statute includes some important differences:

  • Time limits: Arizona has a one-year statute of limitations for strict liability dog bite claims under A.R.S. § 11-1025. After that, victims may still bring a negligence claim, which has a two-year limit.

  • Provocation defense: If the dog was provoked, the owner may avoid liability under this law.

  • Trespassing defense: Unlike California, Arizona emphasizes the victim’s legal status on the property at the time of the bite.

What Damages Can Be Recovered?

Dog bite victims in Arizona may recover compensation for:

  • Emergency room and hospital bills

  • Future medical care and plastic surgery

  • Lost wages or missed school

  • Pain and suffering

  • Scarring or disfigurement

  • Emotional trauma or anxiety

These cases can be especially complex when a child is the victim. Arizona courts take extra care to ensure the settlement is in the best interest of the minor.

What To Do After a Dog Bite

If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog:

A dog bite can lead to infection, nerve damage, and long-term emotional distress. It is important to take action quickly to protect your rights.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we fight for dog bite victims across Arizona. Whether your child was attacked at a neighbor’s home or you were bitten while walking in your neighborhood, our team is here to help.

We understand the emotional stress and physical pain dog bite injuries cause—and we take them seriously. Our goal is to protect your rights, hold negligent owners accountable, and help you recover the compensation you deserve.

Contact Fielding Law at 833.88.SHARK for a free consultation today. We are ready to listen and help.

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

September 18, 2025
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woman driving car down a gravel road

Breast Implant Rupture During Car Accident

By Car Accident, Personal Injury, Product Liability

Understanding Implant Rupture After a Collision

Breast implants are medical devices, not indestructible shields. When a person with implants is involved in a car accident, particularly a high-impact crash, the pressure or blunt force trauma may lead to a breast implant rupture. This situation is not only physically painful but can also cause emotional distress, unexpected medical bills, and long-term complications.

If you or a loved one experienced a breast implant rupture during an auto accident, you may be eligible for compensation. This is especially true if the accident was caused by another driver’s negligence or if faulty seatbelt or airbag deployment worsened the injury.

Common Causes of Breast Implant Ruptures in Accidents

While breast implants are tested for durability, they are not immune to trauma. Some leading causes of rupture in a vehicle crash include:

  • Airbag deployment that compresses the chest

  • Seatbelt force against the implant area

  • Direct trauma from hitting the steering wheel or door

  • Pre-existing manufacturing defects in the implant

These injuries can go unnoticed immediately after a crash. It is important to seek both emergency and follow-up care to catch hidden injuries.

Signs Your Implant May Have Ruptured

Symptoms may vary based on whether the implant is silicone or saline. In either case, if you suspect a rupture after an accident, seek medical evaluation right away.

Common signs include:

  • Sudden change in breast shape or size

  • Hard lumps or rippling under the skin

  • Pain, tenderness, or burning

  • Swelling or inflammation

  • Asymmetry or deformity

Saline implants typically deflate quickly and are absorbed by the body, making them easier to identify. Silicone implant ruptures, on the other hand, may take longer to notice and could result in scar tissue buildup or chronic pain.

Who Is Liable for the Injury?

Liability in cases involving breast implant ruptures during auto accidents can be complex. You may have more than one claim:

  • The negligent driver who caused the crash

  • The auto manufacturer if defective airbags or seatbelts were involved

  • The implant manufacturer if the product failed prematurely

To determine liability and calculate fair compensation, a qualified attorney will conduct a thorough investigation, review your medical records, and consult experts if necessary.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

If your implant ruptured in a crash, you may be able to recover compensation for:

These cases often involve both personal injury and product liability claims. A skilled attorney will help you pursue the full compensation you deserve.

Why Hire Fielding Law

Fielding Law is not a massive, impersonal firm. We are dedicated, experienced attorneys who truly care about our clients. We understand the physical and emotional toll these injuries can take. If you are dealing with breast implants rupturing during an auto accident, our compassionate legal team will guide you every step of the way.

We fight for your recovery so you can focus on healing. Call Fielding Law at 833.88.SHARK or contact us through our online form 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.

September 17, 2025
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Tailgate bbq grill

Injured at Tailgate Party?

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

The Fall season brings a sense of renewal and tradition as many head back to school. It is a time with familiar celebrations like the excitement of tailgate parties before college football games. With all the fun, it is important to stay mindful of your safety and understand who might be responsible if someone gets hurt. As grills, games, and gatherings increase, so does the risk of slip and falls, vehicle accidents, and alcohol related injuries.  

What is a Dram Shop? 

  • A dram shop is a business that sells alcohol and may be legally responsible if they serve someone who poses dangers to others after drinking. 

What are Social Host Laws? 

  • These laws hold the person hosting the tailgate responsible if they knowingly provide alcohol to underage guests or know about underage drinking on site. 

Common Misunderstandings of Tailgate Party Injury 

If you or a loved one is injured due to someone’s irresponsible drinking, many people assume the intoxicated individual is solely responsible. However, others — such as the bar, restaurant, or party host who served them — could also be legally responsible. You may be able to pursue a claim not just against the drunk individual, but also against the business or host who served them.  

Documenting the Scene 

After a tailgate party injury—as with all accidents— documenting the scene is essential. The details you write down shortly after the accident can make a significant difference in building a strong case. Here are a few things to document: 

  • Date and time of the incident  
  • Location of the tailgate  
  • The specific type of accident that occurred  
  • Description of all the non-visible injuries  
  • Photos of the visible injuries  
  • Who was involved, and if there were any witnesses  
  • The company or the name of the individual who was giving out the alcohol  

Why Hire Fielding Law 

Party, tailgating accidents can turn a sharp turn south when alcohol is involved. These situations can be overwhelming and confusing, especially when there are unanswered questions about who is liable. At Fielding Law, we understand the emotional toll an accident can take on a person. Our priority is to carry the legal burden so you can fully focus on healing. We are here to support you. Reach out to us for your free consultation today to see if you have a claim.  

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

September 16, 2025
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Navy blue gradient background with a Fielding Law Shark Jaw logo

CAOC Membership Strengthens Advocacy

By Firm News and Celebrations, Personal Injury

Clark’s Commitment to Justice

At Fielding Law, we believe in advocacy that protects individuals and families. Clark H. Fielding shows that commitment through his membership in the Consumer Attorneys of California (CAOC). CAOC protects the legal rights of consumers and ensures access to justice. With this membership, Clark gains tools to fight powerful insurance companies and corporations for clients injured because of negligence.

Why CAOC Matters for Clients

CAOC unites attorneys across California who represent plaintiffs in personal injury cases. Membership gives Clark:

  • Advanced legal education and training

  • Updates on California laws and regulations

  • A network of skilled trial attorneys who share strategies and insights

  • A voice in state advocacy to keep laws strong for injured people

These resources allow Clark to build stronger cases and pursue better results for clients.

Leadership Through Community

Clark’s CAOC membership goes beyond professional growth. It shows his dedication to the legal community and to protecting consumer rights. By staying engaged with CAOC, he continues to learn, connect, and fight for the people who trust Fielding Law after an accident.

Why Hire Fielding Law

Finding the right attorney after an accident can feel overwhelming. At Fielding Law, clients are never treated like case files. Each person deserves compassion, guidance, and strong legal advocacy. Clark’s CAOC membership means clients work with a lawyer who combines empathy with skill, backed by a community of professionals who share his commitment to justice.

If you or a loved one has suffered an injury, contact Fielding Law today or call 833.88.SHARK to speak with a personal injury attorney who will fight for you.

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

September 15, 2025
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Scott McDonald in the middle of a virtual mediation

Virtual Mediations Made Easy

By Personal Injury

Scott McDonald in the middle of a virtual mediationWhat Are Virtual Mediations?

Virtual mediations are meetings held online to help resolve legal disputes without going to court. These meetings typically involve both parties, their attorneys, and a neutral mediator. With video conferencing tools, mediation can take place from the comfort of your home.

Virtual mediations are not only convenient but also cost-effective. They reduce travel time, scheduling conflicts, and the stress of being in a courtroom setting. Many clients find it easier to speak openly in their own environment, which helps move negotiations forward.

How Virtual Mediations Help Personal Injury Clients

Personal injury cases can already feel overwhelming. Adding court appearances only increases that stress. Virtual mediations provide a calm, private space to find fair solutions.

These mediations are especially helpful in:

Benefits of Virtual Mediation

Many clients choose virtual mediation for the following reasons:

1. Flexibility
You can attend from nearly anywhere. All you need is a stable internet connection.

2. Privacy
Sensitive matters remain confidential without the pressure of a courtroom.

3. Time-Saving
Sessions are often quicker than in-person mediations.

4. Reduced Costs
No travel or parking fees. Fewer delays mean lower legal expenses.

5. Lower Stress
People feel more relaxed and willing to talk when at home.

How It Works

The process of virtual mediation is simple:

  1. Your attorney schedules the session with all involved parties.

  2. You receive a secure link to join via video.

  3. The mediator listens to both sides and helps guide the conversation.

  4. The goal is a mutual agreement without trial.

Virtual mediations can still be powerful and productive. They allow each person to feel heard in a calm setting.

Why Hiring the Right Firm Matters

When navigating something as important as a personal injury claim, you deserve a team that treats you with care and respect.

Fielding Law listens. We take time to understand your story and help you prepare for mediation with confidence. Our attorneys are experienced in both in-person and virtual settings. Our team will guide you through the process with professionalism and compassion.

Why Choose Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, you are never just a case number. We take your situation seriously and offer solutions that make sense for your needs. Whether it is a car accident or a more complex wrongful death claim, our team is ready to support you.

We combine legal knowledge with genuine kindness. Our goal is not just to win — it is to help you move forward. We understand how life-changing these moments can be. You can trust us to show up prepared and present.

If you are ready to talk about your case or ask questions, call 833.88.SHARK today.

We are here to help you feel heard, valued, and supported — 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.

September 12, 2025
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OCTA bus on the road at night time

Did You Know OCTA Does Not Have UM/UIM for Riders?

By Bus Accident, Car Accident, Personal Injury

What Happens if You Are Injured on an OCTA Bus?

Passengers injured while riding an Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) bus are often surprised to learn that OCTA does not provide uninsured motorist (UM) or underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage. This becomes a serious issue when a negligent third-party driver causes a crash and lacks adequate insurance.

OCTA is a public transit agency that self-insures against liability, but that coverage only applies in limited situations—primarily when OCTA itself is responsible. It does not cover situations where a third-party driver is at fault and lacks insurance.

What This Means for You as an Injured Passenger

If you were injured in a bus crash and the at-fault driver had no insurance—or not enough—you may not be able to recover compensation through OCTA. You cannot file a UM/UIM claim through OCTA because that protection is not available to passengers.

You may feel stuck, but you still have options. Your recovery may depend on your own insurance policy, identifying all liable parties, and navigating strict rules for filing claims against government agencies. That is where legal experience can make a difference.

Your Options After an OCTA Passenger Accident

If you were injured as a passenger in a crash involving an OCTA bus, here is what you can do:

  • Review Your Own Auto Policy
    If you carry UM/UIM coverage, it may apply—even if you were not in your own vehicle. You could be covered as a named insured or a resident relative.

  • File a Claim Against the At-Fault Driver
    If the third-party driver had insurance, you can pursue a personal injury claim directly against their policy.

  • Investigate Fault by OCTA
    If the bus driver caused or contributed to the crash, or if there were safety failures (like poor maintenance), you may be able to file a claim against OCTA. These claims are time-sensitive and must follow strict procedures under California’s Government Claims Act.

  • Talk to an Attorney Immediately
    Without UM/UIM through OCTA, your path to compensation may be complex. Speaking with a lawyer can help you avoid delays, protect your rights, and identify every possible source of recovery.

Why Hire Fielding Law

When public transportation accidents happen, especially those involving UM/UIM gaps, the legal path is not always clear. At Fielding Law, we understand the frustration and confusion passengers experience after an OCTA accident. Our experienced team is ready to help you sort through your options and build a strategy that fits your case.

We treat every client with empathy and respect while delivering aggressive representation where it matters most.

You do not have to figure this out on your own. 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.

September 11, 2025
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