Van Nuys Personal Injury Attorney

Injured in an accident in Van Nuys? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to navigate this difficult time on your own.

At Prestige Law Firm P.C., we’ve spent over 20 years helping hardworking individuals recover from sudden, life-altering injuries. Whether you were hit in a car crash on Vanowen Street, slipped at a local business, or were hurt on a job site, we’re here to fight for the compensation you deserve.

We understand the toll a personal injury takes: mounting medical bills, missed work, daily pain, and pressure from insurance companies. That’s why we offer more than legal representation—we offer real support when you need it most.

Led by trial attorney Paul Aghabala, our boutique firm gives you direct access to a lawyer with a track record of seven- and eight-figure verdicts and settlements. We don’t hand your case off to assistants. We build it ourselves—thoroughly, aggressively, and strategically.

What you can expect:

• No upfront costs
• No fees unless we win
• Help arranging medical care, transportation, and documentation

Let us handle the legal pressure while you focus on healing. Call now for a free consultation—we’re ready to stand by your side from day one.

What Is a Personal Injury Case?

A personal injury case arises when someone is hurt because another person or party acted carelessly, recklessly, or intentionally caused harm.

The injured person (called the plaintiff) can file a claim or lawsuit against the at-fault party (the defendant) to recover

compensation for their damages.

To win a personal injury case in California, four elements must be proven:

• Duty of care – The defendant had a legal responsibility to act reasonably or safely.
• Breach of duty – That duty was violated through negligence or recklessness.
• Causation – The breach directly caused the injury.
• Damages – The plaintiff suffered harm as a result (medical bills, lost wages, emotional distress, etc.).

Negligence simply means failing to act with reasonable care. Recklessness is more severe—it means ignoring obvious risks to others’ safety. In both cases, the injured party can seek compensation for:

• Economic damages (like lost income and medical costs)
• Non-economic damages (like pain, trauma, and reduced quality of life)

Most Common Types of Personal Injury Cases

At Prestige Law Firm P.C., we represent clients in a wide range of injury cases—from everyday car crashes to complex wrongful death claims. Below are the types of cases we handle most often in Van Nuys and across Los Angeles County.

Car Accidents

Traffic collisions are among the most common causes of injury in Van Nuys. Distracted driving, speeding, or failure to yield often leave victims facing serious medical bills and insurance complications. An experienced Van Nuys car accident attorney can help you recover compensation while handling every part of your claim.

Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcyclists have less protection on the road, which often leads to severe injuries. Unsafe lane changes, failure to check blind spots, or tailgating can all result in devastating motorcycle accidents. We build strong cases for injured riders and hold negligent drivers accountable.

Truck Accidents

Collisions involving semi-trucks or commercial vehicles often cause catastrophic damage. These cases are complex, involving multiple parties, federal regulations, and deep-pocketed insurers. We handle truck accident cases with aggressive investigation and legal precision.

Uber & Lyft Accidents

If you’re injured in a rideshare accident—whether as a passenger, driver, or pedestrian—we can help sort through the insurance confusion and file the right claims. We act fast to determine which policies apply and fight for full compensation.

Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrians struck by vehicles often suffer life-altering injuries. We advocate for those injured while crossing the street, walking near traffic, or using sidewalks. California law protects pedestrians, and we make sure your rights are enforced.

Workplace Injuries

From construction accidents to unsafe warehouse conditions, work-related injuries can derail your life. We help coordinate both personal injury claims and workers’ compensation benefits to maximize your total recovery.

Slip & Fall / Premises Liability

If you’re injured due to unsafe conditions on someone else’s property—such as wet floors, broken stairs, or poor lighting—you may be entitled to compensation. We investigate thoroughly and hold property owners accountable.

Product Liability

Faulty brakes, defective electronics, dangerous drugs—when products cause harm, the manufacturer may be liable. We pursue claims against designers, manufacturers, and sellers for putting unsafe products on the market.

Dog Bites and Animal Attacks

California law holds dog owners strictly liable in many bite cases—even if the dog has no history of aggression. We represent victims, especially children, who suffer physical and emotional harm from animal attacks.

Wrongful Death

Losing a loved one due to negligence is devastating. We help surviving family members pursue justice through wrongful death claims, seeking compensation for funeral costs, lost income, and the emotional loss of companionship.

Paul Aghabala, Esq.

Founding Attorney

818-788-0808 paul@prestigelaw.com

Common Injuries and Damages in Personal Injury Cases

Injuries from accidents can range from minor to catastrophic—and the impact goes far beyond physical pain. At Prestige Law Firm P.C., we help clients in Van Nuys recover compensation for the full scope of harm they’ve suffered, including medical expenses, emotional distress, and life changes.

Below are some of the most common injury types and damages we address in personal injury claims.

Head, Brain, and Facial Injuries

Trauma to the head or face is often life-altering. These injuries can result from car crashes, falls, assaults, or workplace incidents.

• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): Impacts memory, mood, and cognitive function—sometimes permanently.
• Concussions: A form of mild TBI that can cause headaches, confusion, and fatigue.
• Facial fractures and disfigurement: Broken bones, lacerations, and injuries requiring reconstructive surgery.

These cases often require long-term care and significant compensation.=

Broken Bones and Joint Injuries

Accidents involving vehicles, stairs, or construction equipment frequently lead to fractures or joint damage.

• Simple fractures may heal with a cast, but
• Comminuted or open fractures often require surgery and can leave lasting effects.
• Joint dislocations and cartilage tears can limit mobility and interfere with daily life or employment.

We fight for coverage of all related treatments—from surgery to physical therapy.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries may not show up on imaging but can cause intense, long-term pain.

• Whiplash is especially common in rear-end collisions.
• Sprains and strains affect muscles and ligaments.
• Deep contusions (bruises) can signal underlying trauma.

We ensure these often-overlooked injuries are taken seriously by insurers.

Internal Injuries

Internal injuries are dangerous and sometimes delayed in showing symptoms.

• Internal bleeding
• Organ damage to the liver, lungs, spleen, or kidneys
• Punctured lungs or collapsed lungs

Fast diagnosis and immediate treatment are critical, and so is preserving evidence for your claim.

Spinal Cord and Back Injuries

Injuries to the spine can lead to lifelong disability.

• Herniated discs and pinched nerves cause chronic pain.
• Spinal fractures may require immobilization or surgery.
• Spinal cord injuries can result in partial or full paralysis.

These cases often involve high-stakes litigation. We bring in top medical experts to prove long-term needs.

Catastrophic Injuries

Some accidents leave permanent consequences that affect every aspect of life.

• Amputations
• Severe burns
• Loss of vision or hearing
• Multiple trauma injuries requiring extensive surgery

We help clients recover full compensation for life care, mobility aids, and emotional trauma.

Wrongful Death

When negligence results in the death of a loved one, surviving family members may seek damages for:

• Funeral and burial costs
• Loss of income and financial support
• Emotional pain and loss of companionship

We handle wrongful death cases with compassion and skill, ensuring families receive the justice they deserve.

Types of Compensation You May Be Entitled To

A serious injury doesn’t just impact your body—it can ripple through every part of your life. At Prestige Law Firm P.C., we fight to recover full and fair compensation for what you’ve lost, and what you’ll continue to need.

Depending on the facts of your case, you may be eligible for several types of damages under California law:

Medical Expenses

Covers emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, physical therapy, medications, medical equipment, and future treatment needs. We work with healthcare providers to document your full medical journey, including projected costs if your recovery will take months or years.

Lost Wages

If your injury forced you to take time off work—or made it impossible to return—we seek reimbursement for missed paychecks, including bonuses, tips, or self-employment income.

Loss of Earning Capacity

For clients with long-term disabilities or permanent injuries, we pursue compensation for future lost income. This includes situations where your ability to work the same job—or at all—has been reduced.

Pain and Suffering

Not all losses are visible on a bill. We calculate and present evidence of physical pain, emotional distress, anxiety, sleep disruption, and other impacts on your quality of life. Jurors and insurers must understand the full picture—not just the financial cost.

Loss of Enjoyment of Life

When injuries limit your ability to participate in hobbies, sports, travel, family activities, or other passions, those losses matter. We include this category in serious cases involving disability, chronic pain, or psychological trauma.

Scarring and Disfigurement

We pursue additional compensation for permanent injuries that affect appearance, self-esteem, or social functioning—particularly common in burn cases, facial trauma, or surgical scarring.

Property Damage

For auto accidents and other incidents involving damaged vehicles, electronics, or other belongings, we help clients recover the costs of repair or replacement.

Punitive Damages

In cases involving extreme recklessness, intentional misconduct, or drunk driving, the court may award punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct. While rare, we always assess whether your case qualifies.

Personal Injury Claims in Van Nuys, California

If you’ve been hurt in an accident, California law gives you the right to pursue compensation—but exercising that right requires a clear understanding of deadlines, liability rules, and how to properly file a claim.

At Prestige Law Firm P.C., we help Van Nuys residents navigate the legal process from day one. Below are key laws and provisions that may affect your personal injury case.

Statute of Limitations

Under California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1, you generally have two years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. Miss the deadline, and your claim may be barred—regardless of how strong your case is.

For medical malpractice, the timeline is longer: three years from the date of injury, or one year from the date the injury was discovered—whichever comes first (CCP § 340.5).

Comparative Fault in California

California follows a pure comparative fault rule. That means even if you were partly at fault, you can still recover compensation. Your award will simply be reduced by your percentage of responsibility.

Example: If you’re awarded $100,000 but found 30% at fault, you’d still receive $70,000.

This system allows injured people to recover damages even when fault is shared—a critical advantage when accidents involve multiple parties or unclear circumstances.

Right to Compensation

Civil Code § 3281 establishes that anyone who suffers a legal injury due to another’s unlawful act or negligence is entitled to monetary compensation. It forms the basis for nearly all personal injury lawsuits in California.

Whether the injury resulted from a reckless driver, unsafe property, or a defective product, this provision affirms your right to be made whole through financial recovery.

Future Medical Needs and Losses

California law allows injured parties to recover damages for future expenses and hardships, not just immediate costs. This includes:

• Surgeries or therapy you’ll need later
• Ongoing medication or mobility devices
• Long-term in-home care
• Future lost income or inability to return to the same profession

We work with life care planners, medical experts, and financial analysts to build a forward-looking damages claim that fully accounts for what lies ahead.

Employer Liability in On-the-Job Injuries

If you were injured at work and your employer failed to carry proper insurance, you may be able to file a civil lawsuit under Labor Code § 3706. Our firm has extensive experience coordinating workers’ comp and personal injury claims in these cases to maximize your total compensation.

Claims Against Public Entities

Injuries involving government vehicles, unsafe public roads, or poorly maintained sidewalks are subject to Government Code § 911.2, which requires that you file a claim with the public agency within 6 months. We help clients meet these deadlines and preserve their right to sue if necessary.

Hit-and-Run or Uninsured Motorist Claims

If you were struck by a driver who fled the scene or had no insurance, Vehicle Code § 20001 and § 20002 still provide pathways to recovery. You may be able to file through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage.

We investigate all possible insurance sources and hold hit-and-run drivers accountable when identified. If the other driver is never found, we help you file claims against your policy, making sure your own insurer treats you fairly.

Punitive Damages in Severe Cases

Punitive damages are reserved for egregious conduct—such as DUI, intentional harm, or reckless endangerment. Though not awarded in every case, these damages can significantly increase your recovery and send a strong message to the defendant.

Steps to Take After an Accident or Injury in Van Nuys

What you do immediately after an accident can shape the outcome of your personal injury claim. Your medical recovery, legal standing, and future compensation all depend on the steps you take in the first hours and days.
Here’s what to do if you’ve been injured in Van Nuys:

1. Prioritize Safety at the Scene

If you’re physically able, move yourself—and others—out of danger. Turn on hazard lights and stay visible. Don’t attempt to move anyone with serious injuries unless there’s fire, traffic, or other immediate risk. Staying calm helps preserve evidence and protect others.

2. Call 911 and Report the Incident

Even for minor accidents, always report the incident to emergency responders. LAPD officers, EMTs, and fire personnel will secure the scene, assess injuries, and create an official report—an important piece of evidence for your claim.
Speak honestly, but don’t speculate or accept blame. Stick to the facts.

3. Get Medical Attention Right Away

Many injuries—like concussions, internal bleeding, or soft tissue trauma—don’t show symptoms immediately. Visit a hospital, urgent care centre, or your primary doctor as soon as possible.
Delaying care can hurt your health and your case. Insurance adjusters often use treatment delays to minimize or deny claims.

4. Document the Scene

Use your phone to take photos and videos of:

• Vehicle or property damage
• Road and weather conditions
• Visible injuries
• Traffic signs, signals, or obstacles
• Skid marks, debris, or hazards

If possible, write down what happened in your own words while the memory is fresh.

5. Exchange Information and Identify Witnesses

Collect contact details, driver’s license numbers, and insurance information from everyone involved. If any bystanders saw the incident, ask for their contact info—they may provide essential testimony later.

6. Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters

Insurance companies are not on your side. Adjusters often push for quick, low settlements or try to get you to admit fault.

Let our team at Prestige Law Firm P.C. handle all communication from the start. We protect your rights, evaluate your claim’s full value, and negotiate with insurers on your behalf.

7. Organize Your Post-Accident File

Start gathering documents that can support your case, including:

• Police reports
• Medical records, test results, and prescriptions
• Repair estimates or photos of damaged property
• Names and contacts of witnesses
• Insurance paperwork

You should also keep a daily pain journal to record symptoms, emotional effects, sleep disruptions, and any changes in your ability to work or function normally. These firsthand notes can significantly strengthen your claim.

8. Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer Early

The sooner you involve an attorney, the better. We act fast to preserve evidence, stop insurance harassment, and ensure no deadlines are missed.

At Prestige Law Firm P.C., consultations are free, and there are no fees unless we win. We’ll explain your rights and options in plain language—and get to work building a strong case right away.

How Our Van Nuys Injury Lawyers Can Help

At Prestige Law Firm P.C., we’re more than legal representatives—we’re your advocates from the moment you call until your case is resolved. If you’ve been injured in Van Nuys, here’s what you can expect when you work with us:

Immediate Legal Protection

We take action right away to protect your rights. Insurance companies often reach out quickly with lowball settlement offers.

Don’t sign anything until you speak with us. Our team takes over all communication with insurers and ensures every detail of your injury and the accident is properly documented.

Help Accessing Medical Treatment

If you’re uninsured or unable to afford care, we’ll help you get treatment through a trusted network of medical providers in Van Nuys and Los Angeles County. Whether you need an orthopedic specialist, physical therapy, or surgery, we can arrange care on a lien—meaning you don’t pay out of pocket until your case is resolved.

Building a Strong Case

Once your treatment is underway, we gather everything we need to demand fair compensation. This includes your medical records, police reports, photographs, witness statements, and expert evaluations. We use this evidence to create a powerful, detailed demand package that tells your full story—and lays out what the insurance company owes you.

Negotiation with Insurance Companies

Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who understand the tactics insurers use to minimize claims. We handle the entire negotiation process, always consulting with you before responding to offers. If a fair settlement is reached, we’ll also work to reduce your medical bills—so more of your compensation ends up in your hands.

Litigation and Trial When Necessary

If the insurance company refuses to offer what your case is worth, we file a lawsuit and prepare for trial. Filing often puts pressure on the other side to settle, but if the case goes to court, we’re ready. Prestige Law fronts all litigation costs, and you don’t pay a dime unless we win.

Full-Service Representation Until the End

Throughout discovery, depositions, and possible mediation or arbitration, we keep your case moving forward and your options clear. If trial is necessary, our experienced courtroom lawyers will present your case before a jury at the Van Nuys Courthouse.

We guide you at every stage—so you never feel overwhelmed or alone.

Why Choose Prestige Law Firm P.C. for Your Personal Injury Case?

Choosing a lawyer isn’t just about legal skill—it’s about trust. At Prestige Law Firm P.C., we understand what’s at stake when you’re injured. Bills are mounting, your life has been disrupted, and you need someone who will treat your case like it matters—because it does.

Deep Local Experience That Makes a Difference

Attorney Paul Aghabala has been representing injury victims in Van Nuys and the San Fernando Valley for over 20 years. He’s well known in the local courts, familiar with area judges, and understands how regional insurers operate. This insight gives your case a real advantage from the start.

We Don’t Just Handle Claims—We Win Tough Cases

Some firms look for quick payouts. We don’t. We approach every case as if it’s headed to trial, which forces insurance companies to take us seriously. This strategy consistently leads to stronger settlements—and when necessary, court victories.

From catastrophic injuries to wrongful death lawsuits, we’ve secured 7- and 8-figure results for people who were told they had “difficult” cases. If you’ve been turned away elsewhere, we want to hear your story.

Direct Access to Your Lawyer, Not Just Staff

When you work with Prestige Law, you deal directly with Attorney Aghabala—not just assistants or paralegals. You’ll get real answers, timely updates, and personal attention at every stage. We value clear, honest communication, and that starts on day one.

Insider Insurance Knowledge on Your Side

Before founding Prestige Law, Attorney Aghabala worked as a defense lawyer for insurance companies. He knows how adjusters think, how they evaluate claims, and how they try to reduce payouts. That insight gives us an edge—and helps protect you from common traps.

We Handle Medical Coordination and Workers’ Comp Too

Injured clients often need help finding medical care or dealing with denied workers’ comp claims. We do both. If you’re uninsured or can’t afford treatment, we’ll connect you with trusted providers. If your injury happened at work, we’ll coordinate civil and workers’ comp claims to maximize your recovery.

No Win, No Fee—Guaranteed

We believe legal help should be accessible. That’s why we don’t charge any fees unless we win. You pay nothing upfront, and we cover the costs of litigation. If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing. Simple as that.

Trusted Across Los Angeles County

Prestige Law Firm P.C. is respected across the legal community and by past clients alike. Attorney Aghabala has earned recognition as a “Super Lawyer” and “Rising Star,” and more importantly, he’s earned the trust of injury victims from Van Nuys to Palmdale.

Get the Legal Help You Deserve in Van Nuys

If you or a loved one has been injured in Van Nuys, you don’t have to take on the insurance companies alone. At Prestige Law Firm P.C., we understand how an accident can disrupt every part of your life—physically, emotionally, and financially. That’s why we’re here to fight for the maximum compensation you’re entitled to.

With over two decades of experience, seven- and eight-figure results, and a reputation for personalized attention, we’ll handle your entire case while you focus on recovery.

• No upfront fees
• No legal costs unless we win
• Free consultation with a seasoned trial lawyer—not a case manager

Let us put our experience and resources to work for you today.

Call (818) 788-0808 for your free consultation

Proudly serving Van Nuys and Los Angeles County

Let Prestige Law Firm P.C. be your voice in the fight for justice.

Paul Aghabala

Founding Member

Written by Paul Aghabala, Reviewed by Todd Greenberg, J.D.