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E-Bike standing upright on pavement with a blue sky behind it

12 Year Old E-Bike Rider Seriously Injured In California Crash

By Bicycle Accident, Catastrophic Injury, E-Bikes and E-Scooters, News, Product Liability, Spinal Cord Injury
The scene of an e-bike crash that left a 12-year-old hospitalized with major injures in San Luis Obispo on May 9, 2026. (San Luis Obispo Police Department)

The scene of an e-bike crash that left a 12-year-old hospitalized with major injures in San Luis Obispo on May 9, 2026. (San Luis Obispo Police Department)

A Serious Reminder About E-Bike Safety

A recent crash in San Luis Obispo County involving a 12-year-old boy has renewed concerns about e-bike safety, especially among children and teenagers. According to reports from KTLA and other local news outlets, the child suffered major injuries after an e-bike collision on May 9 and was flown to a trauma center for emergency treatment.

As e-bikes become more common across California neighborhoods, schools, and bike paths, many parents are asking important questions. Are children too young for high-powered e-bikes? Are current regulations enough? And who may be responsible when a devastating crash happens?

At Fielding Law, we have seen how quickly a normal day can turn into a traumatic situation after a serious collision. E-bike accident injuries can be severe, especially for young riders.

Why E-Bike Accidents Are Increasing

E-bikes have become increasingly popular over the last few years. Many families see them as convenient, affordable, and fun. Teenagers often use them to get to school, visit friends, or avoid relying on parents for rides.

However, many e-bikes travel much faster than traditional bicycles. Some can reach speeds of 20 to 28 miles per hour or more. Certain modified or illegally altered bikes can exceed those limits entirely.

That combination of speed, inexperience, and traffic exposure creates serious danger.

Reports surrounding the San Luis Obispo County crash indicate the child suffered significant injuries requiring air transport to a trauma center. Situations like this continue to raise alarms about how quickly an e-bike accident can become life-threatening.

Sadly, this is not an isolated event. Communities across California continue seeing serious crashes involving minors riding e-bikes and other electric vehicles.

California E-Bike Laws Matter

California divides e-bikes into three classes:

Class 1 E-Bikes

These provide pedal assistance only and stop assisting at 20 mph.

Class 2 E-Bikes

These include a throttle and can travel up to 20 mph without pedaling.

Class 3 E-Bikes

These can assist riders up to 28 mph and come with stricter rules.

California law generally requires riders of Class 3 e-bikes to be at least 16 years old and wear a helmet. Younger riders still sometimes gain access to these bikes through online purchases, modifications, or lack of supervision.

There is also growing concern about electric motorcycles and off-road style bikes being mistaken for legal e-bikes. Some vehicles marketed online look similar to bicycles but are significantly more powerful and may not be street legal.

Parents may not always realize the differences.

Children Face Greater Injury Risks

Children are especially vulnerable in e-bike crashes for several reasons:

  • Limited traffic experience
  • Difficulty judging vehicle speed
  • Less developed reaction time
  • Higher likelihood of risky riding behavior
  • Lack of protective equipment
  • Smaller body size and increased injury vulnerability

Head trauma remains one of the most serious risks. Even when helmets are worn, high-speed impacts can cause catastrophic injuries.

These situations often leave families facing overwhelming medical costs, emotional trauma, rehabilitation needs, and uncertainty about the future.

What Liability Can Look Like After An E-Bike Crash

Every e-bike collision is different. Liability may depend on several factors, including:

Driver Negligence

A motor vehicle driver may be responsible if speeding, distracted driving, unsafe turns, or failure to yield contributed to the collision.

Unsafe E-Bike Operation

Riders can also contribute to crashes through unsafe turns, ignoring traffic signals, or reckless riding.

Defective Equipment

In some cases, faulty brakes, tires, batteries, or manufacturing defects may play a role.

Improperly Marketed Vehicles

Some companies market electric motorcycles as e-bikes, creating confusion for consumers and families.

Property Or Roadway Conditions

Poor road design, visibility issues, or unsafe intersections can also contribute to serious crashes.

Determining what happened often requires reviewing surveillance footage, police reports, vehicle data, witness statements, and accident reconstruction evidence.

Communities Are Calling For Stronger Safety Measures

Across California, cities and school districts are debating how to handle growing e-bike concerns. Some communities are considering:

  • Stricter age enforcement
  • Helmet requirements
  • School safety education
  • Registration systems
  • Restrictions on modified bikes
  • Increased police enforcement
  • Parent education programs

Many parents are also reconsidering whether younger children should operate high-speed e-bikes at all.

The reality is that many children may not fully appreciate how dangerous these vehicles can become in traffic.

What People Usually Do After A Serious E-Bike Crash

After a major collision, families are usually focused on emergency medical care first. Once immediate treatment begins, many people start trying to understand:

It is important not to assume fault before the full investigation is complete. Early information after a crash is often incomplete.

Photographs, helmet preservation, bike inspections, medical documentation, and witness information can all become important later.

Frequently Asked Questions About E-Bike Crash Injuries

Are e-bikes legal for children in California?

Certain classes of e-bikes have age restrictions. Class 3 e-bikes generally require riders to be at least 16 years old.

Can parents be held responsible for a child’s e-bike crash?

Potentially. Liability depends on the circumstances, supervision, the type of bike involved, and other factors.

Are helmets legally required?

Helmet laws vary depending on the e-bike classification and rider age. Helmet use is strongly encouraged for all riders.

Can an e-bike accident lead to a personal injury claim?

In some situations, yes. Claims may involve negligent drivers, defective products, unsafe road conditions, or other contributing factors.

Are some “e-bikes” actually illegal electric motorcycles?

Yes. Some vehicles sold online may not meet California e-bike definitions and may require registration or licensing.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we understand that serious injury cases involving children are deeply emotional for families. E-bike crashes can involve complicated liability questions, insurance disputes, and long-term medical concerns. Our team approaches these situations with compassion, attention to detail, and a commitment to helping injured people understand their legal options after a traumatic event.

Moving Forward Safely

E-bikes are likely here to stay. They offer convenience and mobility, but they also come with real risks, especially for younger riders.

The recent San Luis Obispo County crash involving a 12-year-old child is a heartbreaking reminder that these incidents can change lives in seconds.

Parents, schools, communities, and lawmakers continue searching for the right balance between accessibility and safety.

If your family is dealing with injuries after an e-bike accident, Fielding Law may be able to help you understand your options. Call 833.88.SHARK for a free consultation.

Quick Answer Summary

A recent San Luis Obispo County e-bike crash involving a 12-year-old has raised concerns about child safety and California e-bike regulations. E-bike accidents involving minors can lead to severe injuries, especially due to speed and limited riding experience. California has different classifications and age restrictions for e-bikes, but awareness and enforcement challenges remain. Liability in these crashes may involve negligent drivers, unsafe riding behavior, defective equipment, or roadway conditions.

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

May 13, 2026
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Are Injury Cases Different for People Who Are Disabled?

By Car Accident, Catastrophic Injury, Personal Injury, Premises Liability, Slip or Trip and Fall, Spinal Cord Injury, Truck Accident, Wrongful Death

In Arizona, living with a disability does not take away your right to pursue a personal injury claim. If someone else’s negligence causes additional harm, you may still recover compensation. An Arizona injury claim with a pre existing disability often involves more detailed analysis, especially when the accident worsens an existing condition or creates new limitations.

These cases require clear medical evidence, thoughtful evaluation, and strong advocacy to show how the injury has truly impacted your life.

What Happens When an Existing Disability Is Worsened

Not every injury starts from a clean slate. Many people already manage physical or neurological conditions before an accident occurs. When an incident makes that condition worse, the law still allows recovery for the added harm.

This is often referred to as an aggravation of a pre existing condition. The focus is not on the original disability, but on how the accident increased pain, reduced function, or created new challenges.

How Compensation Is Evaluated?

An Arizona injury claim with a pre existing disability looks at how your life changed after the accident. Compensation may include:

  • Additional medical treatment or care
  • Increased need for therapy or rehabilitation
  • New or upgraded assistive devices
  • Loss of earning capacity
  • Greater limitations in daily activities
  • Pain and suffering tied to the worsening condition

The goal is to measure the difference between your condition before and after the incident.

Dealing With Insurance Company Arguments

Insurance companies often try to minimize these claims. They may argue that your symptoms existed before the accident or are unrelated to the incident.

However, Arizona law does not allow a negligent party to avoid responsibility simply because someone was already vulnerable. If the accident made your condition worse, that additional harm matters.

Clear and consistent medical documentation is often the key to overcoming these arguments.

Statute of Limitations in Arizona

Most personal injury claims in Arizona must be filed within two years from the date of the accident. This timeline applies even when you have a pre existing disability.

Delays can make it harder to gather evidence and connect the worsening condition to the incident, so acting within the required timeframe is important.

Why Medical Evidence Matters

Strong documentation is essential in any Arizona injury claim with a pre existing disability. Helpful evidence may include:

  • Medical records before and after the accident
  • Imaging that shows changes in condition
  • Physician opinions on worsening symptoms
  • Therapy and rehabilitation records
  • Documentation of daily limitations

Establishing a clear before and after picture helps show how the accident impacted your condition.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we understand that injuries are not always simple, especially when a disability is already part of daily life. These cases require attention to detail, medical understanding, and a clear strategy to present the full impact of the harm.

Our team approaches every Arizona injury claim with a pre existing disability with compassion, professionalism, and strong advocacy. We focus on telling the full story of how your life has been affected, not just what appears on paper.

You Deserve to Be Heard

If you were injured and already live with a disability, your experience matters. The law allows you to recover for the ways an accident made your condition worse and affected your future.

To learn more about your options, contact Fielding Law or call 833.88.SHARK.

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

May 11, 2026
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When Your Sense of Touch Changes After an Injury

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

The sense of touch helps people interact with the world every day. It allows us to feel temperature, pressure, pain, and comfort. After an accident, however, this sense can change. Loss of touch after injury may occur when trauma affects nerves, the spinal cord, or the brain.

Although some injuries are visible, changes in sensation may develop quietly. For example, a person may notice numbness, tingling, or reduced feeling in certain parts of the body. In other cases, the body may struggle to recognize touch at all.

Because of this, changes in sensation can affect safety, movement, and daily activities.

How Injuries Can Affect Touch

The sense of touch depends on a network of nerves throughout the body. These nerves send signals from the skin to the spinal cord and brain. Then the brain interprets those signals and identifies sensations.

An injury can interrupt this system in several ways.

Common causes of loss of touch after injury include:

Even a single damaged nerve can change sensation in a specific area of the body.

Signs Your Sense of Touch May Be Affected

Loss of touch after injury may appear in different ways. Some people experience numbness. Others notice unusual sensations.

Common symptoms include:

  • Numbness in the hands, feet, arms, or legs

  • Tingling or a “pins and needles” feeling

  • Reduced ability to feel heat or cold

  • Difficulty sensing pressure or pain

  • Increased sensitivity to touch

Sometimes these symptoms affect only a small area. However, more serious injuries may affect larger parts of the body.

When Nerve Damage Is Involved

Nerves play a key role in carrying touch signals. When an accident damages these nerves, sensation may change or disappear.

For example, a car crash may cause nerve compression in the neck or back. Similarly, a fall or impact may damage nerves in the arms or legs. As a result, the brain may receive weak or incorrect signals.

Doctors may use physical exams, imaging tests, or nerve studies to understand how the injury affected the nervous system.

The Impact on Daily Life

Loss of touch after injury can affect many parts of daily life. Without normal sensation, simple tasks may become more difficult.

People may struggle with:

  • Holding objects safely

  • Detecting heat or cold

  • Maintaining balance

  • Completing detailed tasks with their hands

In addition, reduced sensation may increase the risk of burns, cuts, or other injuries because the body does not recognize danger as quickly.

Touch Loss and Personal Injury Claims

When nerve damage or sensory loss results from an accident caused by negligence, the impact may continue long after the initial injury. Medical evaluations, therapy, and rehabilitation may become necessary.

Doctors often document loss of touch after injury through neurological exams and testing. These records help show how the injury affects daily activities and physical function.

Each accident is different. Determining responsibility often requires careful review of the facts surrounding the injury.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we understand that injuries can affect the body in ways that are not always visible. Loss of touch after injury may change how someone moves, works, and interacts with their environment. Our team approaches every case with compassion, professionalism, and careful attention to each client’s experience. If an injury occurred because of someone else’s negligence, Fielding Law is here to help you understand your options. Call 833.88.SHARK to speak with a team that prioritizes kindness, clear communication, and client care.

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

April 23, 2026
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Can an Injury Affect Hearing?

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

Our senses quietly guide nearly every moment of the day. Hearing allows us to communicate, stay aware of our surroundings, and connect with the people around us. When an accident occurs, however, this sense can suddenly change. Hearing loss after injury is more common than many people realize.

An accident that involves head trauma, loud impact, or damage near the ears can disrupt the delicate structures responsible for hearing. In some cases the change happens immediately. In others, symptoms may appear gradually over time.

Recognizing these changes can help people seek medical care and better understand what they are experiencing.

How Injuries Can Affect Hearing

Hearing depends on several complex parts of the body working together. The outer ear collects sound, the inner ear converts it to signals, and the brain interprets those signals.

An injury can interfere with any part of this process.

Some causes of hearing loss after injury include:

  • Head trauma or traumatic brain injuries

  • Damage to the inner ear structures

  • Ruptured or perforated eardrums

  • Exposure to extremely loud noise during an accident

  • Skull fractures near the ear

Even a sudden pressure change or strong blow to the head can disturb these sensitive systems.

Signs Your Hearing May Be Affected

Hearing changes after an accident are not always obvious right away. Some symptoms can appear subtle at first.

Common signs include:

  • Ringing in the ears, often called tinnitus

  • Muffled or reduced hearing

  • Difficulty understanding conversations

  • Feeling like sounds are distant or distorted

  • Dizziness or balance problems

  • Sensitivity to certain sounds

Because hearing and balance are closely connected in the inner ear, some individuals may also experience vertigo or instability.

When Hearing Problems Are Linked to Brain Injuries

The brain plays a key role in how we interpret sound. When a traumatic brain injury occurs, the brain may struggle to process auditory signals properly.

For example, someone may technically hear a sound but have trouble identifying where it came from. Others may find it difficult to follow conversations in crowded environments.

These issues can be frustrating and may require evaluation by specialists such as audiologists or neurologists.

The Emotional Impact of Hearing Changes

Hearing connects people to their environment and their relationships. When hearing loss after injury occurs, individuals may feel isolated or overwhelmed.

Daily challenges may include:

  • Struggling to follow conversations

  • Difficulty at work or in meetings

  • Feeling disconnected in social settings

  • Increased fatigue from trying to focus on sounds

Support, medical care, and hearing evaluations can help people better manage these changes.

Hearing Loss and Personal Injury Claims

When hearing damage results from an accident caused by negligence, the long term effects may extend beyond the initial event. Medical evaluations, hearing devices, therapy, and ongoing care may become necessary.

In personal injury cases, documenting hearing loss after injury often involves testing by audiologists and other medical specialists. Their evaluations help determine how the injury affected the individual and what care may be needed moving forward.

Each situation is unique, and understanding how an accident occurred requires a careful review of the facts.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we understand that injuries can affect parts of life that people rarely think about until they change. Hearing loss can impact communication, safety, and daily independence. Our team approaches every case with compassion, professionalism, and respect for what clients are experiencing. If hearing loss after injury may be connected to someone else’s negligence, Fielding Law is here to help you understand your options. Call 833.88.SHARK to speak with a team that prioritizes kindness, client service, and thoughtful representation.

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

April 3, 2026
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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
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Proving Negligence After Injury

By Assault, Bicycle Accident, Boating Accident, Brain Injury (TBI), Burn Injury, Bus Accident, Car Accident, Dog / Animal Bite, E-Bikes and E-Scooters, Motorcycle Accident, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Personal Watercraft (PWC) Accident, Premises Liability, Product Liability, Public Entity, Rideshare Accident, RV Accident, Skate & Skateboarding Accident, Ski & Snowboard Accident, Slip or Trip and Fall, Spinal Cord Injury, Train Accident, Truck Accident, Wrongful Death

What Negligence Means in a Personal Injury Case

Negligence is the foundation of most personal injury claims in California and Arizona. It describes a situation where a person or business fails to act with reasonable care. When that failure harms someone, the injured person may have a legal right to pursue compensation. Understanding proving negligence injury is essential for any plaintiff seeking recovery.

Negligence does not require intentional harm. Instead, it focuses on avoidable mistakes. These mistakes can happen on the road, inside a business, at a private residence, or during everyday activities.

Common Examples of Negligence

Negligence appears in many forms. Some of the most frequent sources include

Each of these actions places others at risk. When an injury occurs, the plaintiff must show that the other party failed to act responsibly. Proving negligence injury requires clear evidence of these failures.

What a Plaintiff Must Prove

In both California and Arizona, the plaintiff must show

This can sound straightforward, but it often requires evidence, witness statements, reports, and a clear understanding of state law. A skilled attorney can help with proving negligence injury by gathering and presenting information in a strong and organized way.

How State Laws Affect Negligence

California uses a pure comparative negligence system. This means a plaintiff can recover compensation even if they share most of the fault, but their compensation will be reduced by their percentage of responsibility.

Arizona uses a similar comparative fault system, and injured people can still seek recovery even if they hold some responsibility. These rules can significantly impact the outcome of a claim, making proving negligence injury even more important.

Why Negligence Matters for Plaintiffs

Negligence determines whether an injured person has a valid claim. It also influences how much compensation may be available. Plaintiffs often deal with medical bills, missed work, pain, and emotional stress. A clear demonstration of proving negligence injury helps create a strong foundation for a claim that reflects the full impact of an injury.

Why Hire Fielding Law

The injury process can feel overwhelming, but you do not need to face it alone. Fielding Law offers caring, capable, and experienced support for injured plaintiffs in California and Arizona. Our team focuses on listening, understanding your situation, and guiding you with steady and compassionate leadership. We work to protect your rights so you can focus on healing. To speak with our team, contact Fielding Law or call 833.88.SHARK.

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

January 16, 2026
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Why You Should Destress Before Mediation

By Assault, Bicycle Accident, Boating Accident, Brain Injury (TBI), Burn Injury, Bus Accident, Car Accident, Catastrophic Injury, Dog / Animal Bite, E-Bikes and E-Scooters, Motorcycle Accident, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Personal Watercraft (PWC) Accident, Premises Liability, Product Liability, Public Entity, Rideshare Accident, RV Accident, Skate & Skateboarding Accident, Ski & Snowboard Accident, Slip or Trip and Fall, Spinal Cord Injury, Train Accident, Truck Accident, Wrongful Death

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

What Mediation Involves

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

Why Reducing Stress Matters

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

  • Think clearly about your priorities and goals

  • Stay composed under pressure

  • Communicate your needs confidently

  • Recognize reasonable compromises

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

Strategies to Destress

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why Hire Fielding Law

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

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

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

November 12, 2025
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Fielding Law Earns Best Law Firms® 2026 Recognition

By Assault, Bicycle Accident, Boating Accident, Brain Injury (TBI), Burn Injury, Bus Accident, Car Accident, Catastrophic Injury, Dog / Animal Bite, E-Bikes and E-Scooters, Firm News and Celebrations, Motorcycle Accident, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Personal Watercraft (PWC) Accident, Premises Liability, Product Liability, Public Entity, Rideshare Accident, RV Accident, Sexual Assault & Abuse, Skate & Skateboarding Accident, Ski & Snowboard Accident, Slip or Trip and Fall, Spinal Cord Injury, Train Accident, Truck Accident, Wrongful Death

Fielding Law is proud to be recognized in the 16th edition of Best Law Firms 2026, a respected publication that celebrates excellence in the legal field. Each year, Best Law Firms® identifies the nation’s top-performing firms across 127 practice areas and 188 local jurisdictions.

This recognition follows a rigorous evaluation process that includes client feedback, peer reviews, and performance assessments. In 2026, more than 110,000 clients and 200,000 legal professionals participated. Their input highlights the confidence clients have in firms that consistently deliver exceptional results and service.

What This Recognition Means

Earning a place in Best Law Firms 2026 represents more than an award. It shows our ongoing commitment to ethical, compassionate, and effective legal representation. Furthermore, this recognition reinforces Fielding Law’s mission to serve clients with professionalism and integrity.

Being named among the Best Law Firms 2026 also reflects our belief that true success extends beyond courtroom results. It demonstrates our dedication to improving clients’ lives and upholding the highest standards of care. Each case we handle is guided by empathy, focus, and the pursuit of justice.

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, every client receives compassionate support, clear communication, and strong advocacy. Our attorneys take time to understand each client’s experience. We guide clients through the legal process and pursue fair compensation with determination.

Whether you have suffered a personal injury, a vehicle collision, or a wrongful death, Fielding Law is ready to help. Our inclusion in Best Law Firms 2026 reflects our proven record, client trust, and unwavering professionalism.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to negligence, contact Fielding Law or call 833.88.SHARK to learn how we can help you seek justice and move forward.

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

November 6, 2025
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What is a TBI?

By Assault, Bicycle Accident, Brain Injury (TBI), Car Accident, Catastrophic Injury, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Slip or Trip and Fall, Spinal Cord Injury, Wrongful Death

Understanding Traumatic Brain Injuries

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) happens when an external force injures the brain. TBIs can range from mild, like a concussion, to severe injuries that significantly affect cognitive and physical abilities. Even a mild TBI can change your life if it is not properly treated.

TBIs disrupt normal brain function, and symptoms can appear immediately or develop over time. Common signs include headaches, dizziness, nausea, memory problems, trouble concentrating, mood swings, and fatigue. Severe TBIs may cause seizures, loss of consciousness, speech difficulties, or permanent cognitive and physical impairment.

Causes of Traumatic Brain Injuries

TBIs can occur in many situations, often involving accidents or sudden trauma. Common causes include:

In many cases, negligence contributes to TBIs. For example, a driver running a red light or a property owner failing to maintain safe conditions can make them legally responsible for the injury.

Short-Term and Long-Term Effects

The effects of a TBI depend on its severity and location in the brain. Mild TBIs may result in temporary symptoms that improve with rest and rehabilitation. Moderate or severe TBIs may lead to long-term challenges, including:

  • Cognitive impairments such as memory loss or difficulty concentrating

  • Physical limitations such as weakness, loss of coordination, or vision problems

  • Emotional and behavioral changes, including depression, anxiety, or irritability

  • Sleep disturbances or chronic fatigue

Understanding these effects is important for recovery and legal claims because they directly affect quality of life and potential compensation.

Seeking Medical Attention

Prompt medical evaluation is critical after any head injury. A physician can diagnose the severity of the TBI using imaging tests, neurological exams, and cognitive assessments. Proper medical documentation is also essential for pursuing a personal injury claim, as it provides evidence of the injury and its impact.

How a Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyer Can Help

A traumatic brain injury lawyer can assist in navigating the legal process and help you seek compensation for medical treatment, lost wages, rehabilitation, and pain and suffering. They will:

  • Investigate the circumstances surrounding your injury

  • Gather medical records, witness statements, and accident reports

  • Negotiate with insurance companies to ensure a fair settlement

  • Represent you in court if necessary

Why Hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, we combine empathy and expertise to support clients who have suffered TBIs. We guide each client through the legal process while prioritizing their recovery and well-being. If you or a loved one has experienced a traumatic brain injury, contact Fielding Law or call 833.88.SHARK to discuss your case and explore your options.

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

November 5, 2025
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ChatGPT Stops Legal Advice

By Assault, Bicycle Accident, Boating Accident, Brain Injury (TBI), Burn Injury, Bus Accident, Car Accident, Catastrophic Injury, Dog / Animal Bite, E-Bikes and E-Scooters, Motorcycle Accident, Pedestrian Accident, Personal Injury, Personal Watercraft (PWC) Accident, Premises Liability, Product Liability, Public Entity, Rideshare Accident, RV Accident, Sexual Assault & Abuse, Skate & Skateboarding Accident, Ski & Snowboard Accident, Slip or Trip and Fall, Spinal Cord Injury, Train Accident, Truck Accident, Wrongful Death

Recent reporting shows that ChatGPT will no longer offer legal or medical advice in the way users may expect. According to an article on Caliber.az, the update to OpenAI’s usage policies was published October 29 2025. 

This development matters more than just a technical policy change: it serves as a reminder that when you face injuries, rights, or liability, you need a trained attorney—not just a chatbot.

What changed in the policy update

The new usage terms state that ChatGPT (and related services) may not be used for the “provision of tailored advice that requires a license, such as legal or medical advice, without appropriate involvement by a licensed professional.” 
The update went into effect on October 29 2025.

Why did this change occur? Several key factors:

  • Growing concern over liability when users rely on AI for high-stakes decisions.

  • The need to clearly distinguish between general information and personalized advice.

  • Regulatory pressure and the desire by OpenAI to define safe boundaries in legal and medical contexts.

In short, the update clarifies that ChatGPT is meant for general information rather than individualized legal strategy. It does not mean AI is completely barred from discussing legal topics—it means AI should not act as your lawyer.

Why this matters

AI tools can be very helpful for learning basic concepts or exploring ideas. However, they cannot replace the role of a licensed attorney in an injury case. Consider these facts:

  • ChatGPT cannot guarantee attorney-client privilege or confidentiality.

  • It cannot negotiate with insurance companies, handle state-specific statutes, or manage future medical needs.

  • The law in California and Arizona for personal injury cases contains complex rules around negligence, damages, statute of limitations, and more.

Why a skilled attorney matters

A licensed attorney does more than give information. They provide strategy, advocacy, and protection:

  • They understand state-specific laws and personal injury regulations.

  • They create legal strategies specific to your injuries and recovery.

  • They handle insurance negotiations to protect your rights.

  • They manage deadlines, paperwork, and complex legal processes.

  • They prevent mistakes that could reduce compensation.

  • They offer guidance, support, and professionalism throughout the case.

How does this affect your case

If you are injured in a bicycle accident, car crash, slip, trip, and fall, or bitten by a dog in California or Arizona, relying on ChatGPT legal advice is risky. Only a qualified attorney can review your case, explain your rights, and help you recover fair compensation.

Why hire Fielding Law

At Fielding Law, client service is our priority. We improve the lives of each client through ethical and efficient representation. Every case is handled with care, clarity, and commitment. When you need a knowledgeable advocate who cares, we are here.

Call 833.88.SHARK for a free consultation if you or a loved one has been injured.

The end of ChatGPT legal advice highlights a simple truth: AI cannot replace a skilled attorney. Professional guidance protects your rights, guides your case, and maximizes your recovery in personal injury matters.

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

November 4, 2025
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