Legal Blog

Do You Need a Helmet in California?

Jul 26, 2018 | By Michael Beliz | Read Time: 2 minutes

If you ride a motorcycle in California, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the applicable California helmet law and obey all of the rules that apply to you. You also have the right to stand up for yourself in the event you are following applicable rules and you are in an accident that was not your fault. California Helmet Laws California motorcycle helmet law is covered under Vehicle Code Section 27803. California is one of a handful of states that requires all motorcycle riders to wear a helmet. All drivers and passengers must wear a helmet that meets federal safety standards, regardless of age. This law applies to riders on highways as well as rural roads. The helmet law in California does not apply to anyone on a fully enclosed three-wheeled motor vehicle that is over seven feet long and four feet wide. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Highway Loss Data Institute (IIHS), helmets are 37 percent effective in preventing death and 67 percent effective in preventing brain injuries. Purchasing a Helmet that Meets Federal Standards When purchasing a helmet, you must get one that meets federal standards, and it should fit snugly on your head. One helpful tip is to look for a DOT, Department of Transportation, sticker, which is a sign that the helmet manufacturer followed federal safety standards. Having someone help fit you in a helmet is good because they can ensure the helmet doesn’t move excessively and is properly fastened with the straps. Approved helmets meet minimum requirements such as: Inner liner at least one inch thick and made of polystyrene foam Nothing protruding more than two-tenths of an inch from the helmet shell Sturdy chin straps that are attached to the helmet shell with solid rivets Approved helmets typically weigh around three pounds or more. Penalties for Not Wearing a Helmet Both motorcyclists and their passengers can be subject to fines and other penalties if they fail to wear a DOT approved helmet in California. Law enforcement officers are entitled to charge an offender with an equipment violation or something greater. Equipment violations carry a minimal fine per the California Vehicle Code, but the California Highway Patrol states any violation of the helmet law is not just an equipment violation as it is an immediate safety hazard. If a California Highway Patrol (CHP) stops you, it could be a $250 fine and a year of probation, versus the $10 equipment violation. The courts tend to side with the CHP position, so it’s best you always wear your helmet as it will likely save you money in addition to potentially saving your life in the case of an accident. If you sustained a head injury in a motorcycle accident while not wearing a helmet, there may be comparative negligence of your actions. This means you may be somewhat at fault for your injuries. Retaining a California Motorcycle Attorney If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, a California motorcycle attorney can assist in answering any questions and addressing your concerns. Depending on the facts surrounding the accident, you may be entitled to compensation for injuries and property damage. Call the Beliz Law Firm at 562-452-3772 to schedule a consultation.

Bike Accidents

California Bicycle Laws Every Cyclist Should Know

Jul 2, 2018 | By Michael Beliz | Read Time: 4 minutes

The sun is shining, and the cool breeze hits your face as you pedal through the streets of California. But amidst the joy of cycling, an unexpected incident can leave you questioning your rights and responsibilities as a cyclist. Understanding California bicycle laws helps you stay safe and empowers you to protect your rights if an accident occurs. The Basics of Bicycle Laws in California California’s bicycle laws ensure the safety of cyclists, pedestrians, and motorists alike. The following is what you need to know about your legal responsibilities and protections as a cyclist in the state: California imposes significant responsibilities on bicyclists. These responsibilities are designed to protect all riders and reduce the likelihood of a devastating accident. Violating these protections can result in fines, penalties, and legal liability. What Are the Bicycle Laws in California Regarding Accidents? In the event of a bicycle accident, California law requires the involved parties to: If you’ve been in an accident, documenting the scene and gathering witness statements can be invaluable for building a potential legal claim. Bicycle Safety Laws to Protect Cyclists California has implemented several measures to reduce accidents and injuries. These measures focus on allowing bicycles to share the road with motor vehicles safely. Some of the more common safety laws include: Following these laws can help cyclists and the motorists they share the road with to reduce the risk of an accident causing serious injuries. Steps Cyclists Can Take to Stay Safe and Protect Their Rights While accidents can happen, you can reduce risks and strengthen your legal position by: Staying proactive and well-informed is essential to prioritizing your safety and safeguarding your rights in case of an accident. How The Beliz Law Firm Can Help Cyclists in California Understanding California law may seem overwhelming if you’ve suffered a bicycle accident. Our firm brings years of experience and a client-first approach to ensure you get the support you deserve. Clients choose us for the following reasons: Our firm has successfully recovered millions of dollars in compensation for our clients. With us, you’re not just a cyclist but a fighter for justice. Don’t Let a Cycling Accident Halt Your Ride Every cyclist deserves to ride confidently, knowing the law has their back. The Beliz Law Firm ensures your voice is heard and your rights are protected. If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, don’t let uncertainty keep you from seeking justice. Michael A. Beliz, a trusted advocate with years of experience, can guide you through the legal maze with compassion and determination. Contact us today for a free consultation to begin your journey toward justice. Frequently Asked Questions Can I Ride My Bike on Sidewalks in California? California law allows local jurisdictions to determine sidewalk cycling rules. In many cities, business districts prohibit or restrict cycling on sidewalks. Check your local ordinances to stay compliant. Are Electric Bikes Subject to the Same Laws as Regular Bicycles? Electric bikes (e-bikes) in California are generally subject to the same regulations as traditional bicycles. However, certain classifications of e-bikes may have additional requirements, such as speed limits and licensing restrictions. What Should I Do If I’m Involved in a Hit-And-Run While Cycling? If you’re the victim of a hit-and-run, report the incident to the police immediately and seek medical attention. Gathering evidence, such as license plate numbers and vehicle descriptions, can help authorities and your attorney.

Personal Injury

Average Personal Injury Settlement Amounts

Jun 16, 2018 | By Michael Beliz | Read Time: 4 minutes

No one really knows the “average” amount of compensation injured victims receive in a personal injury settlement. Many different factors are in play that no two cases are exactly alike. Rather than worry about the “average” amount of money available, you should strive to better understand what factors go into determining how much compensation our clients receive. Calculate Your Economic Damages Economic damages are damages you can prove with a bill or a receipt. Medical Treatment For example, many of our clients need medical treatment to deal with their injuries, such as: Surgery Doctor’s visits Rehabilitation Transportation to the hospital Prescription drugs Over-the-counter drugs Equipment, such as crutches, wheelchairs, braces, etc. Injured victims can receive compensation for all of the medical treatment that is related to the personal injury accident. If the injuries are serious, you can receive a payout for future medical care as well. For example, clients who have been paralyzed or suffered a traumatic brain injury might need at-home care for the rest of their lives. Loss Wages Additionally, loss wages is another form of economic damages. If your injuries have kept you out of work, you can receive money to replace the amounts lost. In addition to past loss wages, you can be compensated for future loss wages. Keep any proof of your income, such as: Paystubs 1099/W-2 forms from employer Tax returns Other proof of self-employment income You can also make a claim for loss of earning capacity. This is where you could have made more salary in a different profession if not for the injuries from the accident. For example if you just passed the board exams to become a doctor and received a brain injury from an accident, you may have a claim for loss of earning capacity for years of not being paid like a medical doctor. Property Damage Also, you can receive compensation to replace any property damage, such as damage to your car involved in a collision. Further you may recover rental car charges, towing bills, storage costs, and loss of use. Hold onto repair estimates, charges, or bills that show how much it cost to repair or replace the vehicle and anything else related to the vehicle. Estimate Your Non-Economic Losses California allows injured victims to receive a sum of money for intangible harms like pain and suffering. These injuries are harder to measure in dollars and cents because there is no receipt or bill attached to them. However, you can still receive compensation for these harms, such as: Physical pain Emotional distress Loss of enjoyment of life Disfigurement In some situations, your spouse might also have a claim for “loss of consortium,” meaning negative changes to your marriage caused by the accident. For example, they might have suffered loss of companionship, sexual intimacy, or services of the household as a result of the accident. Estimating the amount of non-economic losses is tricky. Clients may receive some multiple of their economic losses in non-economic damages or the cost of the daily loss of enjoyment spread out for the rest of their life. You can maximize your non-economic damages by carefully documenting your pain and suffering. For example, keep a pain journal where you note the location of pain every day and its intensity. Also explain how the injury has affected your mental health and whether it has prevented you from enjoying your favorite hobbies. Identify Whether You Were Partially at Fault for the Accident California law recognizes that victims sometimes contribute to their injuries by being negligent themselves. For example, you might have been reading a text message while driving when another car slammed into you. Or you might not have been paying attention to where you were walking when you tripped over a hazard and injured yourself. A victim’s own negligence is called “contributory negligence” and it can affect the amount of money you receive. Fortunately, personal injury victims can still pursue settlement or a lawsuit if someone else is at least 1% responsible for the accident. However, your settlement will be reduced by your proportion of fault. For example, your injuries might be worth $100,000, but you were 50% responsible for the accident. In this case, you will only receive $50,000 in compensation. If you were 80% responsible, then you would receive only $20,000. During settlement negotiations, your lawyer will try to minimize your proportion of fault. The larger percentage you can place on the other party, the greater likelihood the other party will will negotiate. Therefore before your lawyer can advocate effectively, however, he needs to know what you were doing right before the accident, so always be honest with your lawyer. Analyze the Defendant’s Assets To receive compensation, the other side must have some assets so that they can pay you. California law states that every driver on the roadways and highways must have automobile liability insurance. Even though another person caused the accident, the insurance company will be the one compensating you for your damages. If you were injured by a business employee, then you may be able to hold their employer responsible for your injuries. This concept is called “respondeat superior” and it holds companies liable when their employees injure someone in the scope of their employment. Often, suing a business is better than suing an individual because a business has deeper pockets, but everything depends on the circumstances. If your injuries happened at someone home like from a dog bite, the person’s homeowners policy may contribute to your compensation. A business general liability insurance for may cover you when an accident occurs on the business property like a slip and fall. If someone without insurance hits you in traffic or does not have a homeowners policy, you might not receive anything in a settlement or judgment, especially if the driver/homeowner has no income, savings, or other assets. Therefore, it is especially important to investigate if the negligent party has insurance. Our Results No lawyer can promise a result, and no two cases...

Truck Accidents

What Should I Do if I am Rear-Ended by a Semi-Truck

Jun 11, 2018 | By Michael Beliz | Read Time: 3 minutes

Getting Rear-Ended by a Semi-Truck Often Leads to Serious Injuries Settling with the insurance company after an accident like this is usually a big mistake. An experienced truck accident lawyer can make sure you aren’t stuck with unfair bills and worries after the crash. With Michael Beliz, consultations are free, so call today. Learn more about what you should do after a crash: Semi-trucks, also called tractor-trailers or big rigs, can cause devastating injuries when they collide with passenger vehicles. These trucks can weight 50,000-80,000 pounds when fully loaded, up to 40 times the weight of a passenger vehicle. Unfortunately, crashes involving semis seem to be on the rise. According to statistics kept by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, there were over 4,000 large trucks involved in fatal accidents in 2015, almost a 10% increase over the year before. Furthermore, there were 87,000 large trucks in accidents that caused bodily injuries. If you have been rear-ended by a semi-truck, remember the following tips. Call the Police If you don’t call the police, you are making things harder for yourself. Once the police arrive, they will make a police report identifying the parties involved in the collision and any witnesses. The officer also might identify who is at fault for the accident. A police report is a great way to jumpstart the evidence-gathering process. If you are too hurt to call the police, ask someone else to call for you. Seek Medical Treatment There is no way around it—semi trucks can cause catastrophic injuries to those involved. In addition to death, they cause the following serious injuries: Broken bones Crushed limbs Amputations Head injuries Back injuries Spinal cord injuries Pinched nerves Paralysis Even if the injuries are not apparent immediately after the collision, you should seek medical attention immediately. Many types of injuries, like traumatic brain injuries and internal bleeding, may not be visible or felt at the accident site. It may take days for the pains to appear, which may be too late. Therefore you should go to a medical provider to get a thorough physical examination. Do Not Talk to the Semi Truck Insurance Insurance Do not talk and admit that you did something wrong that led to the crash. Anything you say can be used against you later, so always stay quiet. There is no law that says you must talk to the insurance company regarding the facts or injuries of the claim. If an insurance adjuster wants to speak to you, have them contact your lawyer first. Collect Evidence In order to receive compensation, you need to show that the semi-truck driver was responsible for the crash. And to prove who was at fault, you will need evidence. Remember to gather the following: Take pictures of the final resting place of the semi-truck and any vehicles involved. Use your smartphone and ask a bystander to take pictures if you can’t move around. Get the name of the driver of the semi-truck plus get the insurance information. Take photos of the semi-truck both of the cab and the cargo area. Get a copy of the police report. Identify witnesses if they are not identified in the police report. Your lawyer will find this information helpful when analyzing whether you can have a case and the determination of the value of the case. Hire a Long Beach Truck Accident Lawyer To make a claim against the trucking company’s insurer, you need a seasoned advocate in your corner. Insurance companies play tough, trying to settle claims for as little as possible. Instead of negotiating with the insurance agent on your own, you should hire a truck accident lawyer who will fight for your rights. At the Beliz Law Firm, we have over a decade of experience in personal injury law and have helped numerous clients reach favorable results in their cases. To schedule a free consultation, contact us today.

Car Accidents

Common Injuries Faced by Pedestrians After a Car Accident

Jun 8, 2018 | By Michael Beliz | Read Time: 2 minutes

When a pedestrian is hit by a car, they very seldom have the advantage. The car is larger and it’s moving faster. Even a car moving at the relatively slow speed of 10 mph can do serious irreversible damage to a defenseless pedestrian. While the pedestrian has a duty to obey traffic signals and traffic laws, so does the car. Furthermore, the car has a duty to attempt to avoid the pedestrian. That is the case even when the pedestrian is jaywalking or committing some other violation. In that event, the illegal actions of the pedestrian do not negate either the illegal actions of the driver nor their duty to avoid the pedestrian. Even pedestrians who are partially at fault for an accident can collect a major settlement or jury award. The reason for that is due to the fact that pedestrians suffer extensive injuries in collisions with cars. Some of those injuries can change a person’s life forever. Traumatic Brain Injury The term “traumatic brain injury” is generic enough to encompass a wide array of head injuries that vary in severity. But more often than not pedestrians will suffer from concussions at the very least. In very bad scenarios they can suffer permanent brain damage that compromises their ability to do their jobs, maintain employment, or experience a full range of emotions. Damage to certain parts of the brain can be fatal. In addition, the brain can suffer damage from swelling or bleed internally. Spine and Neck Injuries Depending on how a pedestrian is hit, the chances that they suffer serious damage to their spine or neck are not negligible. From these, permanent paralysis can result. This can force major changes to a person’s line of work. If they depended on their ability to stand in order to do their job, then they will need to find a new line of work. Not only would they be entitled to collect on their loss of income, but they could also collect on training necessary to enter a new field of employment. In the most severe cases, the paralysis is lifelong and leaves the injured party without the use of either their arms or legs. These individuals require 24-hour care. They are entitled to collect damages to pay for that care. Bone and Organ Damage Depending on the size of the vehicle that hits a pedestrian, extensive damage to various parts of the body can occur. Even smaller vehicles can cause serious damage to the arms, legs, and the “core”, like the ribs. This, in turn, can lead to potentially fatal internal bleeding or severe organ damage. In every case, the pedestrian may likely need multiple surgeries and an extensive period of rehabilitation. This can keep them out of work for an extended period of time while medical expenses and other bills pile up. Contact a Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today If you’ve suffered injuries in a pedestrian-car accident, you are entitled to collect damages. Call the personal injury attorneys at Beliz Law Firm at (562) 452-3772 or contact us online and we can begin building your case right away.

Pedestrian Accidents

Common Reasons Why Pedestrian Accidents Happen in California

May 30, 2018 | By Michael Beliz | Read Time: 4 minutes

Walking might be a healthy alternative to driving, but walking is also risky. Pedestrians, unlike motorists, are completely unprotected in a collision, which dramatically increases their chances of death or serious bodily injury. Furthermore, many hazards exist for the unwary pedestrian, who can slip or trip and injure themselves on public or private property. If you have suffered an injury, you should contact a Long Beach pedestrian accident lawyer to begin building your case for compensation. Car Accidents By far, the biggest danger to pedestrians is a motor vehicle. Drivers strike pedestrians all the time. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 4,735 pedestrians were killed in 2013 and another 66,000 were injured in traffic crashes. According to the Los Angeles Times, California is a leader in pedestrian deaths, with about 700 in 2014. Although the number of deaths has not increased with population growth, it also has not fallen, either. Drivers do not intend to collide with pedestrians. Nevertheless, they tend to collide for the following reasons: Driving under the influence. Drugs and alcohol suppress reflexes and make it difficult for drivers to process information. Unfortunately, driving while impaired continues to be a serious problem in California. Statistics show that alcohol or drugs play a role in about 1 out of 7 pedestrian accidents. Poor visibility. Rain, fog, and smoke can make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians. Also, pedestrians are less visible in the dark than during the day. Unfortunately, many pedestrians do not wear reflective clothing, so drivers never see them. Distracted driving. There are endless distractions nowadays. Drivers can easily get distracted by reading or sending a text message or talking on the phone. Other distractions include conversations with people in the car, adjusting controls, and eating or drinking. All it takes is a split second for a driver to take their eyes off the road and they can quickly come upon a pedestrian. Driving too fast. The faster a vehicle travels, the less time it has to stop. Indeed, even hitting the brakes will not stop a vehicle in time to avoid a collision if it is traveling too fast. For this reason, driving too fast is a leading cause of crashes. Small children. Young children crossing a road might be invisible to drivers because of their size. Unfortunately, young children are also the most vulnerable to devastating injuries when struck by a moving vehicle. We also cannot avoid mentioning that pedestrian carelessness can contribute to accidents as well. Pedestrians are expected to follow traffic safety rules and cross at the crosswalk. Unfortunately, too many pedestrians make errors that end up putting them in harm’s way, such as jaywalking or trying to run in front of vehicles. Furthermore, distracted walking is a disturbing emerging trend. Just as drivers become distracted by phones and other electronic equipment, pedestrians with their nose pressed against their smartphone do not hear cars or see them approaching. Distracted walkers can, unfortunately, contribute to their own deaths or bodily injuries. Trips and Falls Pedestrians can also suffer serious injuries by tripping and falling. Few people watch carefully where they are stepping, instead of assuming that the parking lot or sidewalk will be level and free of holes or other hazards. However, as pedestrians soon find out, they can easily slip or trip and suffer a head or other injury after falling. In California, pedestrians can trip or slip over the following: Uneven steps in a staircase; Uneven and cracked sidewalks; Liquid gathered on a walking surface; Gathered rainwater in the parking lot or outside the entrance to a store The key to receiving compensation will be to show that the premises owner did not manage their property with reasonable care by fixing hazards or warning people about them. If you tripped on a public space, such as a road or sidewalk, you can sue the state or one of its municipalities, but you will need a Long Beach pedestrian accident lawyer help you meet the strict requirements. Apportioning Fault California law recognizes that both pedestrians and drivers can be responsible for a collision. In some states, any negligence on the part of the pedestrian will keep him or her from bringing a lawsuit for financial compensation. Fortunately, California has changed its approach to the law and does not bar an injured victim from receiving damages. Instead, California has adopted a pure comparative negligence scheme which allows an injured victim to receive compensation so long as someone else is at least 1% responsible for the crash. Therefore a party is responsible for compensation up to the level of his or her negligence. Comparative negligence applies in all cases, including trip and falls. If a person had tripped over a hole in a parking lot because she was reading a text message, then a jury might believe she is partly responsible for the accident because she was distracted. Speak with a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Long Beach Injured pedestrians face a future of mounting medical bills and potential lost wages, in addition to pain and suffering. At the Beliz Law Firm, we have met with many injured pedestrians looking for hope that they can begin to repair their lives. Fortunately, we have obtained favorable settlements or verdicts for many of our clients, and we are offering our services to help you. To schedule your free consultation, please reach out today. Do not delay.

Dog Bite Injury

Tips for Treating a Dog Bite

May 28, 2018 | By Michael Beliz | Read Time: 2 minutes

Each year, almost five million Americans are bitten by a dog. This number is likely too low since many people do not report dog bites to the authorities. If a dog bites you, you should immediately treat the wound to stop bleeding and prevent infection. Clean the Wound Dog bites can be superficial or very deep. After a bite, you should immediately stop the bleeding by applying pressure with a clean towel. Also, elevate the wound above the heart. If you cannot stop the bleeding with pressure, go immediately to the hospital to have the wound looked at. Once the bleeding has stopped, you can wash the wound very carefully with soap and water. Be careful not to make the wound start bleeding again. Once the wound is clean, put a sterile bandage over it. You should also apply antibiotic ointment every day to prevent infection. You can buy this ointment over the counter at the pharmacy. Look for Infection Some dog bites become infected because all kinds of bacteria live inside the dog’s mouth. If you properly cleaned the wound, you can minimize the risk of infection. Nevertheless, stay alert to the following signs that the wound has become infected: Redness Puffiness Pus drainage Painful to the touch A doctor can assess the wound and prescribe a treatment of antibiotics to treat the infection, if necessary. Visit the Hospital Some dogs bite because they are anxious, overly excited, or angry. But other dogs might have rabies or another disease. If the bite wound is severe, you should immediately go to the hospital so that you can receive the proper medical treatment. Many times, medical professional will clean and wash out the wound plus wrap it in sterile gauze. You might also need a tetanus or a rabies shot. If the wound is or becomes infected, the dog bite area may need to be drained and sutured up. Also, remember to report the dog to authorities so that they can investigate. Dealing with Catastrophic Injuries Some dogs cause devastating injuries, especially to visible parts of the body like the face. In these unfortunate situations, victims often need reconstructive surgery to repair the damage. Victims might also need skin grafts to close the gaping wounds in their body. In these incidents, victims may need to see a plastic surgeon for scar removal. In many instances, a serious bite wound will become sensitive or numb to touch. If this is the case, a medical consultation with a neurologist may be needed to determine if the area to the wound will ever feel again. Speak with a Long Beach Dog Bite Attorney Dog bites can cause serious physical and emotional injuries, and injured victims are entitled to compensation. At the Beliz Law Firm, our first priority is our clients. We offer a free, no-obligation consultation where we will sit down and listen to you describe the events that led up to the dog bite. If we think you have a valid legal claim against the owner, we can help you begin building your case. To see what we can offer, please call 562-452-3772. Do not delay. California does not give injured victims an unlimited amount of time to seek financial compensation.

Brain Injury Lawyer

Difficulties in Dealing with Brain Damage from a Car Accident

May 18, 2018 | By Michael Beliz | Read Time: 3 minutes

The sheer force created by a car collision can leave devastating injuries such as broken bones and spinal cord damage. However, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are another injury that can forever change a victim’s life. If you or a loved one has suffered a severe TBI, you might face years of rehabilitation that can cost tens of thousands of dollars—or more. To see what compensation is available, please reach out to a Long Beach car accident lawyer today. Complications from Moderate and Severe TBIs Unlike a concussion, which is a mild TBI, moderate and severe TBIs often do not clear up in a couple of weeks. Instead, victims deal with significant symptoms for months or years later. For example, you might experience the following: Cognitive impairment. Victims struggle to process information and problem solve. Memory problems. In particular, short-term memory is often affected. Impaired communication. Those with severe TBIs often struggle to speak or to understand the language of other people. Diminished mobility. You might experience weakness in your limbs and problems with balance, coordination, or movement. Sensory deficits. Victims might experience a decline in their ability to see, hear, touch, taste, or smell. Physical pain. Patients can suffer from headaches for years after a collision. Emotional or behavioral changes. Patients might become more irritable or struggle to control anger. They also can experience mood swings. The precise symptoms you suffer will depend on the severity of the TBI and the part of the brain that has been affected. Treatment and Rehabilitation In the immediate aftermath of a traumatic injury, the focus will be on stabilizing the patient. You might have to spend time in the hospital where doctors can help you breathe and also monitor your vital signs. If your skull was a fracture, or if you develop blood clots or bleeding, then you might need to have surgery. Once stabilized, victims undergo an assessment to gauge how the TBI has impaired them. Generally, doctors only treat the symptoms associated with the TBI. For example, you might participate in rehabilitation to recover functioning: Speech therapy can help you relearn how to talk and how to understand other people speaking. Physical therapy can increase strength and mobility. Occupational therapy can teach the tasks of daily living, such as bathing and cooking. Behavioral therapy helps manage mood swings and negative emotions. Family members, along with their injured loved one, might also benefit from meeting with a support group. These groups, comprised of other TBI patients and family members, can serve as a welcome sounding board for complaints and fears about living with the brain injury. Injured in an Accident? Contact a Long Beach Brain Injury Lawyer Many victims of severe TBI are permanently disabled and unable to work. They might also need an at-home aid or attendant to take care of them, which will cost thousands of dollars a month. TBI victims and their families should seek financial compensation if someone else is at least partly to blame for the injury. If successful, you can receive compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. To check whether you have a case, meet with a Long Beach brain injury lawyer at the Beliz Law Firm. Call 562-452-3772 or submit our contact form. Initial consultations are free.

Car Accidents

How Long Does a Car Insurance Claim Take to Settle?

May 3, 2018 | By Michael Beliz | Read Time: 4 minutes

A car accident can derail your day in the blink of an eye. The chaos, sudden stop, and jarring sound of colliding metal can be deeply unsettling. In the aftermath of injuries, missed days, and a wrecked car, you may have several questions: The time a car insurance claim takes to settle can vary based on multiple factors. But don’t let the unknown add to your stress. We’re here to guide you through the process, explaining what to expect and how you can take steps to speed things up. Factors That Affect the Timeline of Car Insurance Claims Several elements influence how long it takes to resolve your claim. In California, the Fair Claims Settlement Practices Regulations combined with the unique details of your case and applicable insurance policies can significantly affect the process. Some factors that can impact how quickly your claim settles include: So, how long does an insurance company have to settle a claim? The answer is that regulations, backlogs, disputes, or insufficient documentation often cause delays. Because of the complexity and time involved, working with an experienced attorney can help keep the process on track. How Long Does It Take for Insurance to Pay Out for a Total Loss? If your vehicle is declared a total loss, the timeline for payout can depend on factors like: While insurance companies typically settle total loss claims within a few weeks, the process can take longer due to unforeseen complications. Why Your Claim May Be Delayed Even with strict timelines under California law, delays happen. Insufficient documentation, disputed liability, or insurers’ strategic stalling can leave claimants waiting. Claims involving ongoing medical care often remain open until you complete all treatment and costs are accounted for. Delays can be frustrating, but early action on these issues can help speed up the process. Steps You Can Take to Speed Up Your Claim While having an attorney is essential, you can also take the following steps to streamline your claim: These steps can minimize delays and demonstrate your commitment to resolving the claim efficiently. How Our California Car Accident Attorney Can Help Dealing with insurance after a car accident is a headache. Let The Beliz Law Firm take the pressure off by: When you have the right legal team advocating for you, you can focus on healing while we handle the complexities of your case. Resolve Your Claim with Confidence with The Beliz Law Firm At The Beliz Law Firm, we’re committed to guiding you every step of the way. With deep knowledge of California’s personal injury laws, a client-first approach, and proven case settlements, we’re here to help you get the settlement you deserve without unnecessary stress. Call us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward resolving your claim. With the right plan, you can move from confusion to clarity—and closer to getting your life back on track. Frequently Asked Questions How Can I Track the Status of My Insurance Claim? Most insurance companies offer online portals or customer service hotlines where you can check the progress of your claim. Be sure to keep your claim number handy for faster updates. What Happens If the Insurance Company Denies My Claim? If your insurer denies your claim, it should provide a written explanation so that you can review their reasoning and gather any additional evidence to support your case. This is when having an experienced attorney is instrumental in challenging the denial and pursuing the compensation you deserve. Are There Limits to How Much I Can Recover from a Car Insurance Claim? The at-fault party’s insurance policy limits typically determine the amount of your recovery. If your damages exceed these limits, you may need to explore other sources of compensation, such as your underinsured motorist coverage or pursuing a personal injury lawsuit.

Truck Accidents

Will I Have to File a Trucking Accident Lawsuit?

May 3, 2018 | By Michael Beliz | Read Time: 2 minutes

When you become involved in a collision with a large truck in Southern California that results in serious personal injuries and significant property damage, you are likely wondering: will I have to file a trucking accident lawsuit? Before you try to decide on your own about the best way to proceed with your case, it is important to work with a California truck accident lawyer who can tell you about your options. In addition, you may be able to receive compensation through an insurance claim, but it also may be necessary to file a lawsuit to receive the compensation you deserve. We will tell you a bit more about the process and how truck accident claims typically work. No matter what, it is important to reach out to a truck accident attorney as soon as possible. Under California law, you will likely have only two years and as little as six months from the date of the accident to file your claim. Contacting the Insurance Company and Negotiating a Settlement If you become injured by a large truck, a semi-truck, or an 18-wheeler in California, it is likely that you sustained severe and debilitating injuries. In addition, you may have suffered massive property damage. Also, it is important to report the accident to your own auto insurance company after the collision. However, you should recognize that even your own insurance company may be only able to assist you in the property damage part of your case and not your injuries. While you should report the accident immediately to your insurance company and answer basic fact-based questions. Your California truck accident lawyer can assist you with your medical issues, and handle negotiations with your insurance company, and with the trucking company’s insurer, on your behalf. It may be possible to negotiate a settlement with the help of your attorney in the claim stage. However, if your injuries are serious, you may need to file a trucking accident lawsuit. Filing Your Lawsuit with the Help of a Long Beach Accident Lawyer If you do need to file a trucking accident lawsuit, this may mean that you will need to understand it may take some time to get compensation through a settlement. Your truck accident lawyer can discuss options with you for filing a claim against the responsible party. Which may be any of the following depending upon the specific facts of your case: Truck driver; Trucking company; Truck owner; Truck loader; Manufacturer of a truck part; Designer of a truck part; or Mechanic who improperly serviced the truck. You may be able to name multiple defendants in your lawsuit. In many cases, even trucking accident lawsuits get settled before a trial, and plaintiffs receive the compensation. Contact a California Truck Accident Attorney Your California trucking accident attorney can help with every step of the process. We can ensure that you become treated fairly by the insurance company present the best possible case if you need to turn to a trucking accident lawsuit. Contact the Beliz Law Firm today for more information or to get started on your case.

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