Helping Van Nuys Cyclists Recover After Bicycle Accidents
Cycling is a popular and environmentally friendly way to travel through Van Nuys, but it is not without risk. With congested intersections, distracted drivers, and limited bike lanes, bicycle accidents occur far too often across the San Fernando Valley. When a collision happens, cyclists usually suffer the worst of the damage.
At Noravian Law Firm, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of injured cyclists. Our Van Nuys bicycle accident lawyers help victims navigate the legal system, deal with insurance companies, and recover the compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one was hurt while biking, call us at 818-548-8000 for a free consultation.
The Rise of Bicycle Accidents in Van Nuys
As cycling becomes more common in Van Nuys, especially among commuters and delivery workers, the risk of accidents has also grown. Local roads like Vanowen Street, Victory Boulevard, and Sepulveda Boulevard are heavily trafficked and often lack dedicated bicycle infrastructure.
According to the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), Los Angeles County recorded over 4,700 bicycle injuries and fatalities in 2023. The San Fernando Valley, including Van Nuys, saw hundreds of those incidents. Intersections near Van Nuys Boulevard and Oxnard Street are known for frequent vehicle-bicycle collisions, often involving drivers making unsafe turns or failing to yield.
Many of these accidents are preventable and caused by negligence. Our firm is here to hold those responsible accountable.
Common Bicycle Accident Scenarios in Van Nuys
Cyclists in Van Nuys face a wide range of risks every time they ride. Our attorneys have handled cases involving:
- Drivers failing to yield at intersections or while making turns
- Dooring accidents from parked cars opening into bike lanes
- Vehicles sideswiping cyclists on narrow roads
- Speeding or distracted driving in residential neighborhoods
- Commercial vehicle collisions with delivery vans or work trucks
- Failure to observe California’s 3-foot passing law
- Poorly maintained or hazardous road conditions
We understand how to investigate these accidents and pursue full compensation for victims.
Bicycle Accident Injuries Can Be Life-Changing
When a cyclist is struck by a motor vehicle, the resulting injuries can be severe or permanent. Even when wearing a helmet, riders are vulnerable to traumatic impacts. Our Van Nuys bicycle accident lawyers frequently represent clients suffering from:
- Head and brain injuries, including concussions or skull fractures
- Broken bones, particularly in the arms, legs, or ribs
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Deep lacerations and road rash
- Dental or facial trauma
- Emotional trauma, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress
Many of these injuries require emergency treatment, surgery, and months of rehabilitation. We work to ensure that your financial recovery covers both current and long-term medical needs.
What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in Van Nuys
The steps you take after a crash can significantly impact your ability to file a successful injury claim. Here’s what we recommend:
- Call 911 and report the accident to the Los Angeles Police Department or California Highway Patrol
- Seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel okay at first
- Document the scene with photos of your bike, the vehicle involved, your injuries, and the roadway
- Get contact and insurance information from the driver
- Collect names and statements from any witnesses
- Keep your damaged bicycle and helmet as evidence
- Contact Noravian Law Firm to begin protecting your rights
Acting quickly helps preserve evidence and strengthens your legal claim from day one.
California Bicycle Laws That May Affect Your Case
Cyclists in California have the same legal rights and responsibilities as motorists. Under California Vehicle Code Section 21200, bicycle riders are entitled to full use of the roadway and must follow traffic rules. Some key laws that may apply to your case include:
- Drivers must maintain a 3-foot buffer when passing cyclists
- Cyclists can ride in the center of the lane if it is too narrow to share safely
- Motorists must yield to bicycles when turning or entering traffic
- Cyclists are not required to use bike lanes if unsafe or obstructed
Violations of these laws can serve as strong evidence of negligence. Our attorneys will determine whether the driver in your accident broke any traffic laws and use that to build a strong liability case.
Types of Compensation Available in Bicycle Accident Cases
If you were injured in a bicycle accident caused by another party’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for a variety of losses. These may include:
- Emergency medical care and follow-up treatment
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Lost wages and loss of future earning ability
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage to your bicycle and gear
- Permanent disfigurement or disability
- Emotional distress and mental anguish
In fatal cases, surviving family members may also file a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and future financial support.
Time Limits for Filing a Bicycle Accident Claim
In California, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to pursue compensation.
However, if your injury involved a public entity — such as a city bus, government vehicle, or poorly maintained public roadway — you must file a government claim within six months of the incident. Our Van Nuys bicycle accident lawyers will ensure that all deadlines are met and your claim is properly filed.
Where Your Case Will Be Handled in Van Nuys
Most bicycle accident lawsuits in Van Nuys are filed in the Van Nuys Courthouse East, which handles personal injury claims for residents in the surrounding area.
Van Nuys Courthouse East
6230 Sylmar Avenue
Van Nuys, CA 91401
Our attorneys are experienced in handling cases in this venue and have the local knowledge necessary to navigate court procedures, judges, and jury expectations in the San Fernando Valley.
Why Cyclists Need an Attorney After a Crash
Insurance companies often undervalue bicycle accident claims or attempt to blame the cyclist. They may argue you were riding unsafely or failed to follow traffic laws. Do not fall into this trap. At Noravian Law Firm, we push back against these tactics and present strong, clear evidence that supports your case.
We work with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and financial analysts to build a claim that covers all your short- and long-term needs. Most importantly, we handle every aspect of your case so you can focus on healing.
Serving the Van Nuys Community and Beyond
Noravian Law Firm proudly represents clients throughout Van Nuys and nearby areas, including North Hills, Panorama City, Sherman Oaks, Lake Balboa, and Reseda. Our deep understanding of local road conditions, court systems, and traffic patterns gives our clients a valuable advantage in pursuing full compensation.
No matter where your accident occurred, near Van Nuys Boulevard, on the 405 Freeway, or along a quiet residential street, we are ready to help.
Why Clients Trust Noravian Law Firm
We understand the unique challenges faced by injured cyclists, and we are committed to helping you get the justice and compensation you deserve. Clients choose us because:
- We offer personalized, responsive service from start to finish
- We have extensive experience with traffic-related injury claims
- We charge no legal fees unless we win your case
- We negotiate aggressively and are fully prepared for trial if needed
- We know Van Nuys roads, insurers, and courthouse systems
Let us be your legal advocates during this difficult time.
If a driver entered or crossed into the bike lane illegally and hit you, they are likely at fault and can be held liable. California law protects cyclists in designated lanes, and our firm will gather evidence to support your case.
Yes, you may still be eligible for compensation even if you were not wearing a helmet. However, your lack of helmet use may impact the case if you suffered a head injury, so it's important to consult a lawyer to understand how this affects your claim.
You may be able to file a claim against a government agency responsible for road maintenance. These cases have shorter filing deadlines, so contact a Van Nuys bicycle accident lawyer immediately if hazardous road conditions caused your crash.
Speak With a Van Nuys Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one was injured in a bicycle accident in Van Nuys, do not wait to seek legal advice. Insurance companies move quickly to protect themselves, and so should you.
Call Noravian Law Firm today at 818-548-8000 for a free consultation with an experienced Van Nuys bicycle accident lawyer. We will explain your options, answer your questions, and start building a case that gets results.