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Helping Clients Navigate Injury Claims

We’re ready to help with a variety of case-types, here’s just a small example of how we can help:

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Large Firm Results & Representation with Small Firm Personalized Attention & Care

Michael is determined to provide each of his clients with personal, one-on-one legal attention. With the Beliz Law Firm, you’re not a number. Each case is important to us, and we promise to treat our clients with respect. We firmly believe in providing you with a voice in your time of need. At the same time, our Long Beach Injury Lawyers focus on maximizing the value of your case - we’re ready to handle tough negotiations with the insurance company. Finally, we won’t hesitate to take your case to trial if that’s what’s needed.

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I would highly recommend The Beliz Law Firm and should I need legal counsel or a personal injury lawyer in the future, Michael Beliz has become my new go-to guy.

- M.M.
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Long Beach Personal Injury Lawyer Michael Beliz

Small Firm Attention, Big Firm Results

Michael A. Beliz, Esq., established The Beliz Law Firm in the spring of 2011. Michael has been a practicing attorney since 2006 and worked for two of the most prominent plaintiff’s personal injury law firms in Southern California. He has extensive experience with personal injury claims and has worked on and handled hundreds of cases as an attorney in all types of accident and injury cases, including car accidents, pedestrian accidents and dog bites, and successfully recovered millions of dollars for his clients.

At the University of San Diego School of Law, Michael was a multiple-year recipient of the Delroy Richardson Endowed Law Scholarship and attained the high pass in Negotiation. In addition, he was a semi-finalist in the ATLA Intramural Mock Trial Competition. Prior to graduating from law school, Michael earned a master’s degree in economics from the University of California, Santa Barbara and his undergraduate degree from California State University, Long Beach where he was a member of the Omicron Delta Epsilon, the International Honor Society for Economics. Michael A. Beliz is admitted to the State Bar of California and United States District Court, Central District of California.

What to Expect from Our Long Beach Personal Injury Lawyer

At the Beliz Law Firm, we understand the wide range of emotions you experience after suffering injuries in an accident. It can be a scary time fueled by emotions of stress, anxiety, and anger. You may have many questions but no answers. Long Beach injury attorney Michael Beliz provides you with personal, one-on-one attention so you get the answers you need during the most difficult time in your life. At the Beliz Law Firm, each case is important to us, and we treat every client with the compassion and respect they deserve.

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Client Testimonials

  • "I was referred to the Beliz Law Firm by a family friend and was not disappointed. I was a passenger in a vehicle that was hit by a drunk driver and when I needed the services of an attorney, Michael Beliz came to my work to discuss my options. He is very friendly and explains everything in effectively and in detail. He recommended a great chiropractor whom I then sought treatment from and who helped me recover from my injuries. Michael created an excellent report used in my case which allowed me to receive the maximum return in my settlement. I have already referred a family friend and recommended another long time friend to seek his services. God forbid I ever get in another serious accident, but if I do I will for sure contact Michael again to seek his help. He’s a great guy who does great work!"

    Y.R.

  • Long beach personal injury lawyer Michael Beliz represented my personal injury case this year and I’m glad I found them. In summation Michael Beliz came across as intelligent, effective, friendly, and genuine. An excellent people person and well versed attorney is a hard combination to find. Michael walked us through everything; spoke to me like a person and not a case number. He just pretty much made the whole ordeal so much easier. Michael was extremely helpful, patient and responsive with my family and me the entire time. Michael regularly checked in on me during my recovery and kept me up to date on the status of the case and conversations with the other parties’ insurance company. My case wasn’t large but he treated me as if I was one of his only cases. I would highly recommend the Beliz firm to family and friends as the highest recommendation I could offer.”

    M.G.

  • "No one wants to involve an attorney in an auto claim, but sometimes you have no choice. Michael made an unpleasant situation so much easier. He really took the time to understand everything that was going on and always gave me prompt and personal attention. He was involved immediately and took over all the interactions with the insurance companies. He became the only one I had to deal with and there were never any games with him, only sound advice. My only mistake was not calling Michael sooner. I now recommend an attorney anytime an injury is involved in an auto accident, if only so they can deal with the insurance companies’ games, and you would be hard pressed to find someone better than Michael Beliz."

    T.V.

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Personal Injury Frequently Asked Questions

When Should I Speak with a Long Beach Personal Injury Lawyer?

How Do I Know If I Have a Valid Personal Injury Claim?

How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit in California?

Will My Personal Injury Case Go to Trial?

Why Do I Need an Attorney?

How Much Does a Long Beach Personal Injury Attorney Cost?

How Much is My Case Worth?

Can I Still Receive Compensation If I Am Partially at Fault for My Injury?

Who Can Be Liable for My Injuries?

What Should I Expect During the Free Consultation?

Recent Blog Posts

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How Much is My Personal Injury Case Worth

Nov 26, 2025 | By Michael Beliz | Read Time: 5 minutes

After an accident, people usually want one answer before anything else: How much is my injury case worth? The reason is simple. Bills appear quickly, work becomes more challenging, and the claims process can be confusing. A clear explanation helps you understand what your case may involve before negotiations even begin.  Case value depends on several factors, including the severity of your injury, medical treatment, time away from work, emotional effects of your injury, property damage, and overall changes to your daily routine. Every injury affects people differently, and each claim is unique. As a result, meaningful estimates require a thorough examination of the facts specific to your situation.  At the Beliz Law Firm, attorney Michael A. Beliz provides straightforward assessments for clients in Huntington Beach, Long Beach, and the surrounding communities. He offers free consultations, realistic expectations, and clear explanations, not exaggerated predictions. How Much Is My Injury Case Worth When Damages Form the Core? Damages drive most of the value of a personal injury claim, and each category influences compensation in different ways. The list below reflects the types of damages that help determine what your case may be worth. Medical bills. Medical expenses often make up the largest portion of a claim, and treatment costs can quickly add up. Lost wages and earning capacity. If your injury kept you from working, you may recover the income you missed. California law also compensates you when long-term limitations reduce your ability to earn. Property damage. Accidents often damage vehicles or personal items you rely on every day. You may recover repair costs or receive the replacement value of anything lost or destroyed in the incident. Pain and suffering. Damages for pain and suffering represent the discomfort, limitations, and lifestyle changes caused by your injuries. Insurers evaluate these damages by reviewing symptoms, medical records, and long-term effects. Emotional distress. Emotional distress includes anxiety, irritability, sleep disruption, and trauma responses connected to the accident. These symptoms often appear alongside physical injuries and influence total compensation.  Loss of enjoyment of life. This category applies when injuries prevent you from participating in hobbies or meaningful activities.  If you want a clear explanation of your damages and what your case may be worth, attorney Michael Beliz can review your injury report and medical records, answer your questions, and give you a realistic path forward. How Much Is My Personal Injury Claim Worth When Punitive Damages Are Available? Punitive damages increase the value of a case only when the defendant’s behavior goes far beyond ordinary negligence. These damages exist to punish intentional, reckless, or malicious conduct and discourage dangerous choices that put others at risk. California courts apply them sparingly and only when the evidence shows an extreme disregard for safety.  California has no statutory cap on punitive damages; however, courts require them to remain proportional to compensatory damages to prevent unreasonable awards, while still allowing substantial penalties. A clear understanding of punitive damages helps you see how serious misconduct can affect case value. If you want to know whether these damages apply to your situation, you can contact the Beliz Law Firm. We can review your case during a free consultation and explain your options under California law. What Is My Personal Injury Case Worth When Additional Factors Affect the Outcome? Your claim’s value depends on more than just damages. California law includes additional considerations that can either increase or reduce the final number. Comparative Negligence California uses a pure comparative negligence system. This rule allows you to recover compensation even if you share part of the responsibility for the accident. Your percentage of fault reduces the amount of compensation you receive. For example, if your claim is worth $100,000 and you are 30% responsible, you may recover $70,000. An honest evaluation of fault helps produce realistic expectations. Mitigation of Damages Injury victims must take reasonable steps to reduce their own harm. Delays in medical treatment or ignoring medical advice can often impact a claim because insurers argue that the injury must not have been serious. Prompt medical care strengthens your case and supports the connection between the accident and your symptoms. How Much Is My Injury Claim Worth If I Work with a Local Attorney Who Focuses Only on Personal Injury? Working with a local attorney who handles only personal injury claims can help you understand your case value more accurately because your lawyer knows how injuries develop, how insurers evaluate damages, and how California law treats compensation. Someone with focused experience can explain what strengthens your claim, what may weaken it, and what a realistic range would look like based on the facts. Attorney Michael A. Beliz brings that level of focus to every case. He has practiced exclusively in personal injury law since 2006 and founded the Beliz Law Firm in 2011, following a career at two prominent plaintiff firms in Southern California. Over the years, he has handled hundreds of car accidents, pedestrian injuries, dog bites, and other personal injury matters, recovering over $10 million for clients in the Long Beach and Huntington Beach communities. When clients ask, What is my personal injury case worth? Michael explains the strengths and challenges of the claim, providing a grounded assessment based on experience, not hype. Working with a focused local attorney doesn’t guarantee a specific number or case outcome, but it helps ensure the value of your claim reflects the full scope of your injuries and losses. Call the Beliz Law Firm for a Personalized Explanation of Your Case Value You don’t need to navigate the claims process alone. You can bring your medical records, questions, and concerns to an attorney who lives in the same community, understands local courts, and keeps communication personal.  Michael Beliz emphasizes personal attention, one-on-one communication, reasonable expectations, and clear explanations. His clients work directly with him, not through layers of staff, and they value his direct and practical approach. The Beliz Law Firm offers free consultations for injury victims who want clear answers about their case...

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Work-Related Car Accidents: What You Need to Know

Nov 11, 2025 | By Michael Beliz | Read Time: 4 minutes

You’re driving a company vehicle down the 405 when a distracted driver rear-ends you. You’re shaken, sore, and suddenly facing questions you didn’t expect: about insurance, medical care, and whether your job will be affected. Who pays for what if you were in a car accident at work? Can you sue? Or is workers’ compensation your only option? If you’ve been injured in a car accident while driving for work in California, you’re not alone, and it’s essential to understand your legal rights. This post will walk you through how employment-related car accidents are handled, who may be responsible, and how an attorney can help you protect your financial future. When Is a Car Accident Considered Work-Related? Not every accident during your workday qualifies as a work-related car accident under California law. Generally, if you were driving as part of your job duties, the incident could fall within the scope of employment.  Examples include: However, accidents that occur during your regular commute or while running personal errands typically don’t count. The distinction can be nuanced and fact-specific. Work-Related Car Accidents: Who Is Responsible? Liability for work-related car accidents depends on the situation. California recognizes a legal doctrine called vicarious liability, which may hold employers liable for employee conduct within the scope of their job duties.  That means your employer may be financially responsible if: The employer may also be responsible for your injuries if you were struck by a commercial driver who was on the job. However, if an employee was acting outside the scope of their employment, such as by driving drunk or running personal errands, the employer may not be responsible. Is an Employer Liable for an Employee’s Car Accident? Employers may be held responsible for their employees’ actions if they occurred during employment. However, if an employee strays from their responsibilities or engages in reckless behavior, the employer may not be held liable. For example, an employee who rear-ends another car while delivering materials as part of their job might trigger employer liability. However, an employee who takes a personal detour while on a work trip and causes a crash likely won’t. California’s courts consider factors like intent, timing, and whether the employer benefited from the activity. What Should I Do After a Work-Related Car Accident? If you were involved in a car accident while driving for work, take these steps: Quick action helps protect your physical well-being and preserve your right to recover full compensation. Can I File a Workers’ Compensation Claim? California law generally entitles you to workers’ compensation benefits if the accident qualifies as work-related.  Compensation typically includes: You do not need to prove fault to receive workers’ compensation. Even if you caused the accident while working, you’re still typically covered. The California Department of Industrial Relations confirms that workers injured on the job are eligible for benefits regardless of who is at fault. Can I Also File a Personal Injury Lawsuit? Workers’ compensation limits your ability to sue your employer, but not necessarily other parties. If someone else caused the accident, such as another driver, a vehicle manufacturer, or a negligent third party, you may have a personal injury claim in addition to your workers’ comp benefits. A third-party personal injury claim can cover: The timelines and procedures are different, and acting quickly is critical. Speak with an attorney to determine your eligibility for either claim. What Happens If You Get Hit by a Car While Working? Getting struck by a vehicle while performing your job, such as crossing a construction site or assisting with traffic in a delivery zone, is typically considered an employment-related injury. In this situation, you may be eligible to file workers’ compensation and personal injury claims. Pursuing both claims can be legally complex. For example, your workers’ comp insurer might have a right to reimbursement from any personal injury settlement or judgment you receive. An attorney can help you avoid costly mistakes and maximize your recovery under both systems. How The Beliz Law Firm Helps Work-Related Accident Clients Work-related crashes aren’t just traffic accidents. They’re legal puzzles. At The Beliz Law Firm, we help injured workers in California understand their options and pursue every available path to recovery. Founded by Michael A. Beliz, Esq., our firm brings nearly two decades of experience in personal injury and workers’ compensation strategy.  We’ve recovered millions for injured workers throughout Southern California and have successfully litigated claims against large delivery companies and rideshare platforms. We’re bilingual, responsive, and genuinely care about our clients’ futures. Whether you need help dealing with your employer’s insurance carrier or want to hold a negligent driver accountable, we can guide you through the process and fight for what’s fair. Protect Your Health and Your Legal Rights You’re working hard to do your job. When an accident interrupts your ability to work and live, you deserve clear answers, not red tape. If you’ve been in a car accident at work, you may be eligible for more compensation than your employer or insurer offers upfront. Don’t leave money or benefits on the table. Let The Beliz Law Firm evaluate your situation, explain your options, and help you move forward. 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Filing a Wrongful Death Claim After a Car Accident

Nov 11, 2025 | By Michael Beliz | Read Time: 4 minutes

Losing a loved one in a car crash in California often happens without warning. A driver runs a red light on the 5, a distracted teen veers into oncoming traffic in Orange County, or a trucker falls asleep behind the wheel on the 101. In these devastating situations, surviving families are left with grief, confusion, and difficult questions about what comes next. If you’re here, you may wonder if you can get financial help through a wrongful death car accident claim, the process, and how to make the responsible party answerable. The team at The Beliz Law Firm is here to help offer clear answers and guidance to help you take the next step forward. What Is a Wrongful Death Car Accident Under California Law? In California, a death is considered “wrongful” when it is caused by someone else’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional act. When that fatality results from a car accident, such as speeding, drunk driving, or running a stop sign, the deceased person’s family may have the right to seek civil compensation. This type of legal action is separate from any criminal charges. In a civil lawsuit for wrongful death, the objective is to recover losses rather than to penalize the responsible party. That distinction matters when discussing compensation for death in a car accident, which can include financial and emotional damages. Who Can File a Fatal Car Accident Lawsuit in California? California law limits who may file a fatal car accident lawsuit. The statute gives priority to: Multiple family members may be involved in a single claim. If several parties are entitled to file a claim, the court may consolidate them into one case. Legal guidance is essential in these cases, where emotional grief often overlaps with legal complexity. What Must Be Proven in a Wrongful Death Claim? To bring a successful wrongful death car accident case, you must prove that: These elements align with standard negligence principles under California law. Eyewitness testimony, police reports, and accident reconstruction can all serve as evidence to prove these points.  What Damages Are Available in a Wrongful Death Case? A successful claim may include both economic and noneconomic damages. While no amount of money can replace your loved one, a civil settlement can help relieve financial burdens and recognize your emotional loss.  You may be entitled to compensation for: This type of wrongful death car accident settlement can also account for the emotionally meaningful time you will no longer spend with your loved one, such as birthdays, graduations, and retirement milestones. Each case is unique, and damages depend on the deceased’s age, income, and role. What Happens When Someone Dies in a Car Accident? A car accident with death often triggers both criminal and civil proceedings. Law enforcement will investigate the crash. The district attorney may file criminal charges, especially if drugs, alcohol, or reckless driving were involved. But criminal justice doesn’t address the family’s personal losses. That’s where civil wrongful death claims come in. Civil courts allow survivors to recover damages without requiring a criminal conviction. In fact, you can file a civil lawsuit even if the driver isn’t charged or is found not guilty. Wrongful death claims must be filed within two years of the date of death. Failing to file on time could result in losing your family’s right to recover compensation. How an Attorney Can Help After a Wrongful Death Car Accident Wrongful death claims are emotionally and legally complex, especially when dealing with insurance adjusters, paperwork, and settlement offers that may not reflect your full losses. However, you do not need to navigate this process alone.  An attorney can help you: Pursuing compensation for death in a car accident without legal guidance can lead to underpaid claims, missed deadlines, or added emotional strain. In some cases, our firm engages accident reconstruction experts or consults economic analysts to project long-term financial losses. These resources can significantly impact the settlement value. Start the Healing Process with Answers At The Beliz Law Firm, we understand the emotional toll of losing someone to a preventable accident. Founded by Michael A. Beliz, Esq., our firm has recovered millions on behalf of California families in car accident and wrongful death claims. We provide individualized attention to every case. We’ve helped families secure justice after accidents involving speeding, drunk driving, rideshare collisions, and defective vehicle parts. When you work with us, you receive compassionate legal support and the skill of a seasoned trial attorney. Justice may begin with a claim, but healing starts with trusted support. Your family deserves peace, stability, and support. If you’ve lost someone in a car accident, don’t accept a rushed insurance payout or unanswered questions. Speak with our personal injury attorney today. We will clarify your legal options and advocate for your rights. Our goal is to support you as you move forward with strength, dignity, and guidance. FAQs How Long Does a Wrongful Death Car Accident Case Take? It depends on the case’s complexity and whether it settles out of court. Some cases resolve in a few months, while others involving disputed liability or multiple defendants may take over a year. What If My Loved One Was Partially at Fault? California follows comparative fault rules. Even if your loved one was partially responsible, you may still recover damages, though your compensation may be reduced accordingly. What If the At-Fault Driver Was Uninsured? You may still be able to recover compensation through uninsured motorist coverage or a personal injury lawsuit if the driver has assets. An attorney can explore all recovery options. Resources

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