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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

How to Determine Pain and Suffering in a Car Accident Case

Sep 15, 2025 | By Michael Beliz | Read Time: 4 minutes

After a car accident, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. You may have stacks of medical bills, missed time at work, and ongoing pain that seems impossible to put into words. Beyond the financial costs, there’s the emotional toll—stress, sleepless nights, and the loss of everyday life routines. It’s natural to wonder: how to calculate pain and suffering, and what it means for your case.  Unlike medical bills, these damages aren’t easily quantifiable. That makes them harder to measure, but no less critical. Learning how pain and suffering are determined can help you understand the full value of your claim and ensure you’re not left with less than you deserve. At The Beliz Law Firm, we’ve helped car accident victims across California navigate this process for nearly 20 years. We know how to evaluate an injury’s impact on your life and how to fight insurance companies that try to minimize these losses. This guide will walk you through what pain and suffering mean legally, how to calculate pain and suffering after a car accident, and why having an experienced attorney makes all the difference. What Are Pain and Suffering Damages? Pain and suffering damages are a form of compensation for the noneconomic harm caused by an accident. They cover the physical discomfort and emotional strain that often follow a serious injury.  Unlike medical bills or lost wages, these damages don’t have a fixed dollar amount, but they are critical to making you whole after a car crash. Types of Car Accident Pain and Suffering Damages Pain and suffering damages aren’t limited to just physical pain. After a car accident, the law recognizes that victims can experience many kinds of noneconomic harm. These categories help explain the full impact an injury can have on someone’s life: These categories demonstrate that pain and suffering damages extend far beyond physical discomfort. They capture the full human impact of a car accident, helping to show why fair compensation must reflect more than just medical bills and lost wages. How Much Is My Pain and Suffering Worth? There is no universal formula for determining these damages. Instead, the value depends on the facts of your case and the strength of the evidence presented. Attorneys and insurance adjusters may use methods like multipliers or per diem calculations, but each case is unique. When quantifying car accident pain and suffering, a lawyer may look at: These factors help determine how much your pain and suffering may be worth in a claim. Since insurance companies often focus on minimizing payouts, having an experienced attorney evaluate these elements can make the difference between a low offer and a fair settlement. Do You Need a Lawyer to Calculate Pain and Suffering After a Car Accident? Proving pain and suffering can be one of the most complex parts of a car accident case because the damages are subjective. A skilled attorney can make a significant difference by: By handling these steps, an attorney strengthens your case and allows you to focus on healing. Contact The Beliz Law Firm About Your Pain and Suffering Damages Pain and suffering can be among the most significant and disputed parts of a car accident claim. Insurance companies may try to reduce or deny these damages, but you can pursue the full value of what you’ve lost with the right legal team. Since founding The Beliz Law Firm in 2011, attorney Michael Beliz has dedicated his practice solely to personal injury law. Unlike larger firms, where clients get lost in the shuffle, we provide one-on-one guidance and treat every case with the attention it deserves. We’ve taken on tough insurers, achieved meaningful results for our clients, and we’re ready to do the same for you. If you’re wondering how to calculate pain and suffering in your car accident case, don’t leave the answer to an insurance adjuster. Contact The Beliz Law Firm today for a free consultation and let us help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.

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Average Settlement for a Brain Injury in California

Sep 15, 2025 | By Michael Beliz | Read Time: 4 minutes

Suffering a traumatic brain injury (TBI) can turn your life upside down in an instant. Recovery is often slow and uncertain, and the financial strain can be just as overwhelming as the physical toll. As medical appointments multiply and time away from work stretches on, one question often rises to the surface: What’s the average settlement for a traumatic brain injury? It’s a reasonable question. Brain injuries come with high costs, both seen and unseen. Understanding what affects a settlement is critical. But the truth is, there is no single “average” settlement payout. Every case is different, and the value depends on the specific facts. Since 2011, The Beliz Law Firm has helped injured clients across California understand the actual value of their claim and fight for the justice they deserve. This guide will walk you through the key factors influencing TBI settlement amounts and what you can expect if you pursue a claim.  How Much Traumatic Brain Injury Compensation Can I Expect from My Case? There is no universal settlement amount for brain injury claims. Instead, head injury compensation payouts vary widely depending on the unique circumstances of the case. Every traumatic brain injury is different, and the law recognizes that a single average figure cannot measure the impact on each person’s life. For some, recovery may involve temporary symptoms and a return to normal activities after treatment and time. For others, a TBI can result in permanent cognitive or physical limitations, requiring lifelong care and ongoing financial support. These differences are why settlements range so widely and why any estimate must be based on the specific facts of your case. The most accurate way to understand what your case may be worth is to have an experienced attorney review your injuries, your medical needs, and how the TBI has changed your daily life. At The Beliz Law Firm, we evaluate every detail of your claim and fight to ensure the outcome reflects the full scope of your losses. What Factors Impact the Average TBI Settlement? Settlements vary widely because each claim depends on the details of the accident. Insurance companies, attorneys, and courts look at specific factors when deciding on a fair settlement. Understanding these elements can give you a clearer picture of what to expect in your own case. Below are the most critical factors influencing the average settlement for a traumatic brain injury in California. Severity of the Brain Injury The seriousness of the injury is often the most significant driver of settlement value. A concussion that heals in weeks may result in a much smaller payout compared to a severe TBI like a brain bleed that may cause permanent disability. Symptoms of mild TBIs can include headaches, dizziness, and changes in sleep habits. Moderate to severe TBI symptoms may include balance or coordination problems, aggressive behavior, and trouble communicating. These life-altering injuries may require around-the-clock care and can significantly increase compensation. Medical Costs Medical expenses are central to any personal injury claim. Settlements must reflect past and future medical costs, which can be extensive in TBI cases. Compensation may include: The higher the medical bills and the more ongoing the treatment, the larger the potential brain injury settlement amount. Impact on Daily Life A brain injury can change everyday living. Victims may no longer be able to manage finances, drive, cook, or care for their children. Some require in-home assistance or modifications to their homes. Because these injuries often reduce independence and quality of life, settlements should account for the cost of help, assistive devices, and the loss of everyday activities. Insurance companies and juries consider testimony from family, friends, and medical experts to understand how the injury has changed someone’s daily routine. Lost Wages and Future Earning Capacity A traumatic brain injury can keep you out of work for weeks, months, or even permanently. Your settlement may include compensation for the income you’ve already lost while recovering and the income you are expected to lose in the future if you can’t return to your previous work or work at the same level. Future earning capacity is essential in brain injury cases because these injuries often have long-lasting effects. Even if you can work again, you may need to reduce your hours, change fields, or accept lower-paying roles. These financial consequences should be reflected in your claim. Your attorney can review your employment history, income records, and medical documentation to help calculate the financial impact of your TBI. Pain and Suffering Brain injuries often involve invisible struggles, such as chronic headaches, fatigue, depression, anxiety, and frustration over lost abilities. These damages are harder to calculate because they don’t come with receipts, but are no less real. Attorneys know how to estimate what fair compensation should look like for the physical and emotional suffering caused by a TBI. Liability and Comparative Fault Establishing liability is critical in any accident claim. In California, the pure comparative negligence rule applies. You can still recover compensation if you were partly at fault for the accident, but your percentage of fault will reduce your recovery amount. Get Help Understanding Brain Injury Settlement Amounts—Call The Beliz Law Firm Today When it comes to traumatic brain injuries, no two cases are alike, so neither are the outcomes. TBI settlement amounts depend on each case’s unique facts, including the injury’s severity, how it affects your ability to work, and the impact on your daily life. That’s why having a knowledgeable attorney who can evaluate your claim’s full value is critical. Attorney Michael Beliz has nearly two decades of experience focused solely on personal injury law. He has helped clients secure fair results in cases involving life-changing injuries by providing one-on-one attention, gathering strong evidence, and challenging insurance companies that try to minimize payouts. If you or a loved one suffered a brain injury in an accident, don’t leave your future in the hands of an insurance adjuster. Contact The Beliz Law Firm today for a free consultation.  

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Common Airbag Injuries From Car Accident in California

Sep 15, 2025 | By Michael Beliz | Read Time: 4 minutes

Car Accident Airbag Injuries – What You Should Know The moments after a car accident are chaotic. You might be sore, bruised, or dealing with more serious injuries, and one question keeps coming up: Did the airbag cause this injury?  While airbags are designed to save lives, they can also leave drivers and passengers with unexpected harm. From chest trauma and burns to facial or eye injuries, airbag injuries are more common than people realize. If you’re searching for answers, you’re not alone. Many people want to know whether their pain is linked to the airbag’s deployment and what options they have for recovery. Understanding the types of injuries airbags can cause is the first step in getting clarity and taking action. At The Beliz Law Firm, we’ve guided car accident victims across California through this process. With nearly two decades of experience handling personal injury claims, we help clients identify the source of their injuries, explain how the law applies, and fight for compensation when airbags cause harm. What Are Common Types of Airbag Injuries? The explosive force of an airbag deploying makes them effective. But it can also cause serious harm. Certain factors increase the likelihood of experiencing an airbag-related injury: These risks can result in a wide range of injuries, some minor and some life-changing. Below are the most common airbag-related injuries that may occur after car accidents. Airbag Injury to the Chest The chest is one of the most vulnerable areas when an airbag deploys. The force can leave behind severe bruising or fractured ribs, and in some cases, the pressure can injure the lungs or heart.  People with pre-existing conditions, such as asthma or cardiac issues, may face additional complications. An airbag injury to the chest can be particularly concerning because it can limit breathing, make movement painful, and prolong recovery well beyond the immediate aftermath of the crash. Airbag Face Injury Facial injuries are among the most visible consequences of airbag deployment. The impact can cause injuries such as: Beyond physical harm, airbag face injuries can leave scarring or disfigurement that affects self-confidence and may require reconstructive surgery. Airbag Eye Injury The chemicals and force involved in airbag deployment can damage the eyes. Common injuries include corneal abrasions, retinal tears, and even temporary blindness.  In severe cases, victims may face lasting vision impairment. An airbag eye injury can also be disruptive and interfere with work, driving, and hobbies. Airbag Leg Injury Although airbags are designed for upper body protection, the lower body can still be injured in a crash. The force of impact may push knees or legs into the airbag or dashboard.   Sometimes, an airbag leg injury may include: Some of these injuries require surgery and extensive rehabilitation, limiting mobility for months. Airbag Arm Injury Arms and hands are often in the direct path of the deploying airbag. Many victims instinctively raise their arms during a crash, which exposes them to fractures, sprains, and shoulder dislocations. Soft tissue injuries are also common and can lead to long-term pain or reduced range of motion.  These injuries can significantly impact work and independence because we rely on our arms for almost every daily task. Airbag Head Injury Airbags are meant to protect the head from striking the steering wheel or windshield, but they can still cause a head injury. The speed of deployment can lead to concussions, scalp injuries, or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Victims may also suffer hearing loss from the explosive noise or burns to the skin and scalp.  Even mild head injuries can create long-lasting symptoms, such as headaches, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating. What to Do If You Suffered an Airbag Injury Acting quickly after an airbag injury helps protect your health, preserves essential evidence, and ensures your rights are not overlooked. Here are the key steps you should follow: By following these steps, you safeguard both your health and your legal rights. Acting promptly helps preserve crucial evidence and ensures your case is positioned as strongly as possible. What Happens If an Airbag Caused Your Injury? Airbag-related injuries are taken seriously under the law, whether they stem from the crash itself, the deployment, or a defect in the system. Your case may involve several possible claims or responsible parties, depending on the circumstances. If the airbag was defective, deployed too forcefully, or failed to function, you may have a case against the airbag manufacturer. Similarly, when airbags are installed incorrectly by the car manufacturer, they may deploy at the wrong time or with the wrong force, creating grounds for an additional claim. An experienced attorney can determine which type of claim applies and guide you through the process so that all responsible parties are held accountable. Contact The Beliz Law Firm About Airbag Injuries At The Beliz Law Firm, we’ve dedicated our practice solely to personal injury law, representing victims of accidents throughout California. Attorney Michael Beliz has been practicing since 2006 and has successfully recovered millions of dollars for injured clients.  We offer: If you’ve suffered an airbag injury, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Contact The Beliz Law Firm today for a free consultation.  

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