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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

Navigating a Long Beach Airport Car Crash Accident

Oct 14, 2026 | By Michael Beliz | Read Time: 4 minutes

Pulling into an airport, most flyers probably fear a delay. But a Long Beach Airport car crash can lead to hospitalization, missed work, and unpaid medical bills.  What you should do next may depend on who caused the crash and where it happened. If another driver, the City, or another party may be responsible, different claim procedures and deadlines can apply.  The Beliz Law Firm can help identify the responsible parties and explain the next steps. What Should I Do Immediately After a Long Beach Airport Accident? Provided you are not in severe pain, you should document the accident and talk with the authorities. Take as many of the following steps as possible. Report the Accident to Law Enforcement Call 911 and tell them where the accident happened. When an officer arrives, you can share your memories of how the accident unfolded. The officer will also create a crash report that documents important information about the accident. Call an Ambulance for Anyone Who Needs One California law requires that a driver help anyone who is injured in the accident, including arranging transportation for medical treatment when necessary or requested. Document the Accident Scene If you aren’t in too much pain, and you can do so safely, document the accident scene before the vehicles are moved out of the way: This evidence can help us determine how the accident occurred, which is critical for establishing fault. Swap Information with Other Drivers California law requires that you share the following: And remember to get the above information from other drivers involved in the crash. What Mistakes Should I Avoid After a Crash at Long Beach Airport? You should not do or say anything that suggests you were even partially responsible for the accident. We recommend that you: These precautions can help you avoid making statements or posting content that may later be used to dispute your claim.  Any share of fault will reduce your compensation by a like percentage. For example, if your damages total $100,000 but you are 60% at fault, your recoverable damages would generally be reduced by 60%. Why Should I Go to the Hospital After an Accident? You should document your injuries and treatment. Some insurance companies question whether an accident victim is even injured. By visiting the hospital, you can begin building a record that shows your treatment and injuries. Obtaining appropriate care can also help with recovery. Remember to follow a doctor’s treatment plan. Who Is Responsible for a Long Beach Airport Accident? In California, liability will depend on who is at fault for the crash. Often, a person or entity is at fault for failing to exercise reasonable care. Think of a driver who is speeding or intoxicated. They may be at fault because they did not drive as a person exercising reasonable care is supposed to drive. Is the Airport Ever Responsible for My Injuries? The airport may be liable if a dangerous condition or other conduct for which the City is legally responsible contributed to the accident. Because the City of Long Beach owns and operates the airport, special rules apply if the City is a defendant. A personal injury victim generally must present a claim to the City within six months of the injury. Contact our office quickly so that you do not miss any deadlines that apply to these special claims. What Compensation Can a Long Beach Car Accident Attorney Negotiate for Me? A lawyer can submit an injury claim and seek compensation from any defendant who is at least partially at fault for the accident. Often, we submit claims to an at-fault driver’s insurer or, if the City may be responsible, pursue a claim against the City. An airport accident claim can seek compensation for economic damages: Economic damages compensate for financial losses caused by the accident.  An accident victim can also receive compensation for noneconomic damages: These damages address the personal effects of an injury that do not have a fixed financial value. In addition to seeking medical care, keep all medical bills and records. Write down the name of every doctor who treated you and share this information with a lawyer. Should I Handle My Own Legal Claim? There are benefits to hiring an experienced personal injury lawyer instead of trying to negotiate on your own. A lawyer can calculate your past and present economic damages. Similarly, a lawyer knows what evidence an insurance company will find compelling.  Our law firm can: If you were hurt in a Long Beach airport car crash, we can handle these parts of the claim while keeping you informed about your case and options.  How Can a Local Long Beach Attorney at The Beliz Law Firm Help? Airports are hectic environments, and evidence of your accident can disappear quickly. Contact a Long Beach car accident attorney to help preserve evidence, including surveillance video, and pursue a claim against the responsible party or insurer.  Our clients receive personalized, one-on-one attention. You will communicate directly with Michael Beliz, who has practiced law since 2006 and lives and works in the Long Beach community. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help after a Long Beach Airport crash.  Legal References Used to Inform This Page To ensure the accuracy and clarity of this page, we referenced official legal and other resources during the content development process:

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Attorney Portrait

Can I Sue the City of Long Beach for a Long Beach Transit Bus Accident Injury?

Oct 14, 2026 | By Michael Beliz | Read Time: 4 minutes

Public transit is a convenience in Long Beach, moving thousands of people each day. But too many people are hurt in bus accidents. If you were injured in an accident involving a Long Beach Transit bus, you may have a claim for compensation. Determining who is responsible is an important first step because your claim may be against the bus company, another driver, or another responsible party. If Long Beach Transit is responsible, your claim would generally be against Long Beach Transit rather than the City of Long Beach, because they are legally distinct entities. The Beliz Law Firm can review what happened, help identify who may be responsible, and explain the process of pursuing compensation. Contact Michael Beliz for a free consultation to discuss your Long Beach bus accident.  When Can I Sue the City of Long Beach for a Bus Accident? You may be able to sue the City of Long Beach if the City’s own negligence contributed to your bus accident or injuries. However, if your claim arises from the actions of Long Beach Transit or one of its drivers, your claim generally would be against Long Beach Transit rather than the City. The City of Long Beach and Long Beach Transportation Company, which operates Long Beach Transit, are legally distinct entities.   Some situations where Long Beach Transit might be liable for your injuries include: We can review evidence to determine whether Long Beach Transit shares liability for the crash. What Is the Process for Suing Long Beach Transit for a Bus Accident? Our firm can help you present an injury claim to Long Beach Transit if the company is liable. We can explain what happened and why the company is responsible. We also provide information about your injuries. Claims involving injury generally must be presented within six months of injury, so identifying the correct entity early is important.  You should act fast. Additional deadlines can apply after the claim is presented. Reach out to The Beliz Law Firm to connect with an experienced bus accident attorney in Long Beach. What Causes Most Bus Accidents in Long Beach? We aren’t aware of any studies that have looked specifically at accidents involving a Long Beach Transit bus. However, many bus accidents can stem from careless driving. The bus driver could fail to operate the bus safely by: Any of these behaviors can contribute to a collision, but another driver or other circumstances may also be responsible. Other motorists on the road can also cause bus accidents. For example, a driver could cut off a bus, and the bus driver could pull into an adjoining lane to avoid a crash. In that situation, the other driver might have partial or sole liability for the accident. Can I Make a Claim If I Was Riding on the Bus When It Crashed? Yes. Bus accident claims can be filed by passengers on the bus, as well as motorists who are struck by a bus. The evidence used is similar, but clarify whether you were a passenger when speaking with an attorney. How Do I Prove Liability for My Bus Accident? You should contact a bus accident attorney in Long Beach for help gathering and analyzing evidence. Some evidence we rely on includes: We use this evidence to reconstruct how the accident happened and determine who may be liable for the crash. What If Another Driver Is to Blame for My Accident? Another motorist on the road could have caused your accident. The driver could have forced the bus into a different lane or caused the bus driver to slam on the brakes. This other driver might have some liability or be solely responsible. You can typically make a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurer or sue them if necessary. However, the amount of available insurance coverage will depend on the driver’s policy. Long Beach Transit may also be liable if its negligence contributed to the accident. What Steps Should I Take After an Accident with a Long Beach Transit Bus? An accident is a dizzying experience. Ideally, you should balance your need for immediate medical care with documenting the crash. If you are injured, request an ambulance. Ask someone to call for you if you need one. If you can walk around, then try to document the accident if you can do so safely by: Photographs and witness statements may help establish how the accident happened, and this evidence may be more difficult to find days after the crash. Can I Afford a Bus Accident Attorney in Long Beach? Yes. Although money might be tight, you can search for a law firm that represents injured people using contingency fee agreements. This means we will handle your injury claim without requiring any upfront legal fees. Instead, we agree to accept a portion of any settlement or court award if we are successful. Schedule a Free Consultation Today Michael A. Beliz attended high school in Long Beach and cares about the community. When a Long Beach bus accident leaves a person with painful injuries, he advocates for his client’s best interests throughout the claims process. Contact us to schedule a no-obligation consultation to discuss your accident and the next steps. Legal References Used to Inform This Page To ensure the accuracy and clarity of this page, we referenced official legal and other resources during the content development process:

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What to Do After an Accident on the Long Beach 710 Freeway

Oct 2, 2026 | By Michael Beliz | Read Time: 5 minutes

Motorists think nothing of jumping on the 710 Freeway to get around Long Beach, but countless accidents happen along the freeway’s 23 miles. All it takes is one motorist not paying attention or cutting off another vehicle, and you can end up in the emergency room unable to move. At The Beliz Law Firm, our Long Beach car accident lawyer manages the complex aspects of your case so you can focus entirely on your recovery. Our team gathers crucial evidence to establish liability and negotiates directly with insurance providers to secure fair compensation on your behalf. If life feels like it’s spinning out of control after an accident on the 710 Freeway in Long Beach, contact our office. And follow these steps to help protect your health and legal rights after a crash. Step 1: Stop Your Car Immediately California law requires that all drivers involved in an accident immediately stop. If stopping would block traffic, you can pull over to the nearest safe location. The goal is to protect the safety of other motorists. Remember to put on your hazard lights if your car is not totally disabled, to warn motorists coming up behind you on the freeway. Step 2: Report the Accident to Law Enforcement Call the police to report the accident. If anyone is injured or killed, California requires the collision to be reported to law enforcement within 24 hours. Use your cell phone to call 911 or the California Highway Patrol, depending on the location and circumstances of the accident. If you are too hurt, ask someone else to call for you. You must also file an SR-1 report with the California DMV within 10 days if anyone is injured or killed, or the collision causes more than $1,000 in property damage. This requirement applies regardless of fault and is separate from a police or CHP report. Step 3: Share Personal and Insurance Information California law requires that a driver share certain information with other drivers involved in the crash: Share this information with the police officer who arrives at the scene, too. And remember to get identifying, vehicle, and insurance information from the driver of any vehicle involved in the crash. Exchanging this information gives you the basic details you may need when reporting the collision and pursuing an insurance claim. Step 4: Help Anyone Injured in the Crash Another legal requirement is to help anyone injured in the accident. Calling an ambulance or arranging other necessary medical assistance is usually sufficient. Ask all occupants of vehicles involved if anyone needs an ambulance. If you are seriously hurt, request that someone call an ambulance for you. Early treatment can help identify and address your injuries. Step 5: Document the Accident if You Can Legal responsibility for a 710 Freeway crash depends on fault. The driver who caused the accident may be legally responsible for the resulting damage. Documentation helps insurance representatives and others “see” how the accident happened. If you are able and it is safe to do so, you should: Photos, witness information, and available vehicle data may later help establish how the collision occurred. Step 6: Do Not Admit Fault for the Crash California is a comparative fault state. If you are to blame in any way for the accident, your share of fault will reduce your compensation. If you are 50% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by 50%. Avoid making statements assuming the cause of the accident or admitting fault at the scene. Instead, wait for law enforcement to arrive and discuss the facts objectively with the responding officer. Step 7: Seek Medical Care and Document Your Case Once you finish at the scene, go to the hospital if necessary and collect other evidence: An injured victim can also receive compensation for pain and other intangible losses. Keep a journal where you document how you feel each day. Together, this documentation provides vital evidence linking your injuries and financial losses directly to the crash. How Do I Find the Right Long Beach Car Accident Attorney? The best way to find an attorney for your situation is to review a lawyer’s website to check if they practice car accident law. Then schedule a consultation to discuss your accident on the 710 Freeway in Long Beach. In a consultation, you can go into greater detail about your accident and whether you have a strong claim. At The Beliz Law Firm, we have negotiated millions in compensation for accident victims. Our legal team can handle the insurance claim and legal issues while you focus on recovery. How Much Compensation Can I Receive for a 710 Freeway Crash? The amount depends on the facts of your case. A good lawyer won’t promise a result, because there is no one-size-fits-all solution. We can negotiate with the at-fault driver or their insurer for compensation to cover: These are economic damages that compensate for financial losses tied to the crash. Our law firm also negotiates compensation for noneconomic damages: The value of these damages depends on the circumstances of the accident and how the injuries affect your life. Protect Your Legal Rights After a Freeway Accident A crash on the 710 Freeway can leave a motorist stranded at home or in the hospital, unable to provide for their family. Get the legal help you need by calling us. We can negotiate for fair compensation on your behalf. The Beliz Law Firm has leveraged local knowledge of the Long Beach community for more than a decade. You will work directly with Michael Beliz and receive personal, one-on-one attention throughout your claim. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a Long Beach car accident attorney. Legal References Used to Inform This Page To ensure the accuracy and clarity of this page, we referenced official legal and other resources during the content development process:

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