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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

Attorney Portrait

Who Pays for Medical Bills After a Car Accident in California?

Jan 7, 2025 | By Michael Beliz | Read Time: 4 minutes

Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident is challenging, especially when faced with mounting healthcare costs. After seeking treatment for injuries, many accident victims wonder who covers medical bills in a car accident. Understanding how these expenses are handled in California is critical to protecting your financial future and ensuring you receive the care you need. At Beliz Law Firm, we know how overwhelming this situation can feel. Our Long Beach personal injury attorneys provide personalized attention to every client, working to simplify the legal process and maximize case value. Below, we’ll explain who covers medical bills in a car accident, the role of insurance, and the steps you can take to protect your rights. How Medical Bills Are Paid After a Car Accident in California Medical bills from a car accident can be covered in various ways, depending on the circumstances of your case. Here are the primary methods: At-Fault Driver’s Insurance California is an at-fault state, which means that the driver found responsible for causing the accident is also responsible for covering the resulting damages, including medical bills. This means you would typically file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company to seek compensation for your medical expenses. Their insurance may cover medical bills up to the policy limit. The at-fault driver’s insurance may not pay until liability is determined and the claim is resolved, which can take time.  In the meantime, you may have to look to your own insurance.  Your Health Insurance If the at-fault driver’s insurance is insufficient or delayed, you can use your health insurance to pay your medical expenses. However, your insurer may seek reimbursement from any settlement you receive. Med Pay Coverage Medical Payments Coverage (Med Pay) is optional in California but can help pay immediate medical expenses regardless of fault. This coverage typically applies to you and your passengers. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM) If the at-fault driver lacks adequate insurance, you can look to UM/UIM coverage from your policy to cover your medical bills and other damages. Combining these options allows you to address your medical expenses while working toward a full financial recovery. What to Do If You Have Medical Bills After a Car Accident Navigating medical bills after a car accident can be stressful, but taking the following steps can help protect your rights and maximize your compensation. Seek Immediate Medical Attention Prompt medical care ensures that your injuries are treated and documented, which is critical for your claim. Even if you feel fine initially, some injuries may take days or weeks to manifest, and delaying treatment could harm the viability of your case. Notify Your Insurance Company Report the accident to your insurer, but avoid giving detailed statements without legal advice. Insurance companies may use your statements to minimize or deny your claim, so providing only basic facts is essential until you’ve consulted an attorney. Keep Detailed Records Save medical bills, receipts, and any correspondence with insurance companies. These documents serve as evidence to support your claim and help ensure that you recover all eligible expenses related to your injuries. Consult a Personal Injury Attorney Legal guidance can help you determine the best strategy for recovering compensation. An experienced attorney can negotiate with insurers, protect you from lowball offers, and handle complex legal procedures on your behalf. At The Beliz Law Firm, we provide free consultations to help you understand your options and take the stress out of the claims process. Let us handle the legal challenges so you can focus on your recovery. Importance of Keeping Detailed Records Maintaining detailed records is essential to recover compensation for your medical bills after a car accident. These documents provide crucial evidence when filing an insurance claim or pursuing a lawsuit: Keeping these records organized and accessible can streamline the claims process and support your case in negotiations or litigation. Understanding California’s Pure Comparative Negligence Rule In California, the pure comparative negligence rule determines how fault impacts compensation. This rule allows injured parties to recover damages even if they are partially at fault for the accident. However, their compensation is reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to them. For example, if you are 30% responsible for the accident, you would receive 70% of your total damages. Impact on Medical Bills If your claim involves shared fault, the at-fault driver’s insurance will only cover a portion of your medical bills corresponding to their percentage of responsibility. You may need to use Med Pay, health insurance, or UM/UIM coverage to address the remaining costs. Why Legal Representation Is Critical Insurance companies often use comparative negligence to reduce their payouts. Having an experienced attorney ensures that your rights are protected and you maximize your compensation. At The Beliz Law Firm, we are skilled at countering these tactics and advocating for our clients under California’s comparative negligence rule. California Car Accident Attorneys Facing medical bills after a car accident can be overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to recover from your injuries. At The Beliz Law Firm, we understand the financial and emotional toll these situations can take. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized attention and skilled legal representation, ensuring your rights are protected, and your medical expenses are addressed. With our “Small Firm Attention, Big Firm Results” approach, you can trust that your case is in capable hands. If you are unsure who pays for medical bills after a car accident, we can help; you don’t have to navigate the process alone. Contact The Beliz Law Firm today for a free consultation to discuss your options. Let us fight for the compensation you deserve while you focus on healing and moving forward.

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Settling a Wrongful Death Claim in California

Jan 7, 2025 | By Michael Beliz | Read Time: 4 minutes

Losing a loved one due to someone else’s negligence is one of the most difficult experiences a family can face. During this overwhelming time, navigating the legal process of filing a wrongful death claim can feel like an additional burden. At The Beliz Law Firm, we understand the emotional and financial challenges that arise after such a loss. Our firm is committed to providing personalized, one-on-one legal attention, ensuring you’re not just another case number. We aim to help families throughout California secure fair compensation while treating them with the respect and compassion they deserve. This article will guide you through what to expect when settling a wrongful death claim, including timelines, settlement negotiations, and key steps in the process. How Long Does It Take to Settle a Wrongful Death Claim? The time it takes to settle a wrongful death lawsuit can vary significantly depending on the specifics of the case. While some claims might settle in months, others could take longer—potentially years if the case involves complicated legal issues or contested facts. Here are some key elements that influence the length of the settlement process. Complexity of the Case The complexity of the wrongful death case is one of the most significant factors affecting how long it takes to settle. Cases involving several negligent parties (e.g., a car accident involving multiple vehicles) can require additional time to investigate and sort out liability. Additionally, disputes over who is at fault or whether negligence occurred can delay the settlement process. Insurance Negotiations Insurance companies often aim to settle claims quickly, but they may try to minimize the amount they pay out. The negotiation process can take time, especially if the insurer offers an initial low settlement amount. Your attorney may need to negotiate back and forth to secure a fair compensation package for medical expenses, lost wages, funeral costs, and emotional distress. If the insurer refuses to make a fair offer, the case may need to proceed to trial, which adds more time. Gathering Evidence and Investigation To build a strong case, your attorney must gather evidence, conduct investigations, and interview witnesses. This process could include obtaining police reports, medical records, and expert testimony. The more complicated the case or the longer it takes to gather all relevant information, the longer the settlement process will take. In some cases, your lawyer may also need to wait for the completion of any coroner or autopsy reports, which can take additional time. Legal Proceedings and Court Filings If your attorney cannot reach a fair settlement after extensive negotiations, the case may go to trial. Litigation can significantly extend the timeline for settling a wrongful death claim. The court system in California is often backlogged, meaning trial dates can be delayed or set far into the future. The wrongful death lawsuit process is fraught with time spent on pretrial motions, depositions, and discovery processes that add to the overall duration. Additionally, appeals are always possible after the trial finally occurs. In California, families typically have two years from the date of the loved one’s death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. This deadline, known as the statute of limitations, is important to remember when considering legal action. Wrongful Death Lawsuit Process The settlement process for a wrongful death claim involves several key steps. Investigation and Evidence Collection Your attorney will investigate the circumstances of the death, collect evidence, and identify the responsible parties. This may involve reviewing police reports, medical records, and witness statements. Filing the Claim Once your attorney gathers evidence, they can file the wrongful death claim. This notifies the at-fault party and their insurance company of the intent to pursue compensation. Negotiating a Settlement Wrongful death claim settlement negotiations can take place throughout your case, and most wrongful death claims are resolved in an agreement. During this phase, attorneys present evidence of the damages, including financial losses, medical expenses, funeral costs, and emotional distress. Reaching a Settlement Agreement If the parties agree on compensation, the claim concludes with a wrongful death settlement agreement. If negotiations are unsuccessful, the case may proceed to trial. What Factors Affect the Settlement Amount? Settlement amounts vary based on several factors, including: Remember, strong evidence of fault can lead to higher settlement offers, while disputed liability may reduce the potential payout. How Long Does a Wrongful Death Lawsuit Take to Settle? Every case is unique, and navigating a wrongful death claim without legal representation can be challenging and delay your settlement. Insurance companies often attempt to settle quickly and for less than the claim’s true value. Having an attorney to advocate on your behalf can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. At The Beliz Law Firm, we focus on securing fair compensation for our clients while providing the one-on-one attention they deserve. With extensive experience handling wrongful death claims, we are here to guide you through the process every step of the way. Wrongful Death Claim Settlement Negotiations Attorney At The Beliz Law Firm, we provide families with compassionate legal support during one of the most challenging times in their lives. With a focus on delivering small firm attention and big firm results, we work tirelessly to guide clients through every step of the wrongful death claim process. Whether negotiating with insurance companies or preparing for trial, we are committed to using our experience and expertise to pursue the justice and compensation your family needs and deserves. Are you still wondering, How long does it take to settle wrongful death claims? If you have questions about how long it takes to settle a wrongful death suit or need guidance on the lawsuit process in California, we are here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us stand by your side as you seek answers and closure.

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I Was Hit by a Car in the Crosswalk. Now What?

Dec 16, 2024 | By Michael Beliz | Read Time: 4 minutes

I Was Hit by a Car in the Crosswalk in California – What Are My Legal Options? Being hit by a car while legally crossing the street in a crosswalk is a traumatic experience that can lead to serious injuries and significant financial burdens. California law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, yet accidents still occur when drivers are distracted, reckless, or fail to obey traffic laws. If you’ve been hit by a car in a crosswalk, it’s essential to understand your legal rights and the steps you can take to protect your claim. The experienced pedestrian accident lawyers at The Beliz Law Firm are here to help you seek compensation and hold negligent drivers accountable. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case. What Should You Do Following a Pedestrian-Car Accident Immediately following an accident, the steps you take are essential and can impact your injury claim for compensation. Try to remain calm, so you remember everything you need to do. Contact the Police Start by contacting the police if no one else already has. It’s important to let the 911 dispatcher know a driver struck you as a pedestrian in the crosswalk. You want medical personnel to respond and assess your injuries. Be very cautious about what you say at the scene of the accident. The driver might take something you say out of context, and the insurance adjuster might use these statements against you in a liability investigation. Exchange Contact Information Hopefully, the driver of the vehicle did not flee the scene. You will need to exchange contact information and get their insurance information. Did anyone else witness the accident? If so, you will need to obtain contact information for each witness. Don’t assume that the witnesses will still be there when the police arrive. Someone may not be able to wait, so get their information before they have a chance to drive away. Take Photos If you are physically able, you can also try to take photos of the accident scene. Include pictures of the driver’s vehicle and any debris on the ground. Are there skid marks before the crosswalk? Is it raining? Be sure to capture this information as well. If you can get photos of your injuries, that’s also helpful evidence.  Seek Medical Treatment If you do not require transport to the emergency room following the accident, be sure to visit a doctor as soon as possible. Insurance adjusters will use any delay in treatment to their advantage. They could allege you were not seriously injured or that another event after the accident caused your pain. Contact an Attorney Pursuing a pedestrian accident claim is complicated, and you will need an advocate on your side who can help you navigate the legal challenges. Anything you say to the insurance company can be used against you, so it’s best to get an attorney right away. Let them talk to the insurance adjuster for you so you don’t accidentally say something you regret later. If the Driver Did Not Stop, Try to Remember All the Details you Can About It When a car keeps driving after hitting a pedestrian or another vehicle, the victim may be able to file a hit and run claim. If you can locate the driver, you can file a claim with his or her insurance provider. In your police report, note the vehicle’s make, model, color, and license plate number. The more details you can provide, the easier it will be for the officer handling the report to help you locate the driver. Due to the quickness of the collision and your injuries, you may not be able to make out the vehicle’s details. You may still seek compensation for your damages through a hit and run claim with your own uninsured motorist coverage. Determining Liability in a Pedestrian Accident The driver’s insurance company will be looking for any option possible to place some liability onto you—thereby lessening their exposure. California follows the legal theory of negligence known as pure comparative negligence. With pure comparative negligence, you could be partially responsible for the accident and still collect compensation for your injuries. However, your percentage of liability would reduce your overall award or settlement. For instance, if a court found you to be 20% at fault and your total damages were $100,000, you would likely end up getting $80,000 in compensation. Who Pays for Your Injuries? Determining who pays for your injuries and damages depends on who is legally responsible. Potentially liable defendants include: The driver might allege a vehicle defect contributed to the accident, such as brake failure. If there is a verifiable defect, an additional defendant could be an auto manufacturer or mechanic. Hire Our Lawyer Working with an attorney after a pedestrian accident is crucial. It is best to have a legal advocate on your side who will protect your rights after being hit by a car in the crosswalk. Your lawyer will help you determine all liable parties and handle communication and settlement negotiations with the defendants and their legal representatives. Getting the maximum compensation for your injuries requires strong evidence and an understanding of insurance company tactics aimed at lowering your recovery. At the Beliz Law Firm, we know every trick the insurance companies will try to use to avoid paying you the money you deserve—and we know how to hold their feet to the fire until they make a reasonable offer. Don’t risk getting less money than you should receive. Contact the Beliz Law Firm today to schedule an initial consultation. Let us help you hold the liable parties responsible for the harm they caused you.

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