Walking through Sherman Oaks should never be life-threatening. Yet on crowded streets like Ventura Boulevard, Sepulveda Boulevard, and Burbank Boulevard, pedestrian collisions remain a serious public-safety concern. When drivers speed, text, or fail to yield, the results can be devastating.
At DJ Law Corp, our Sherman Oaks pedestrian accident attorneys represent victims and families across Los Angeles County who’ve been struck by negligent drivers. We fight for full compensation for medical costs, lost income, and long-term recovery — all on a contingency-fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win.
Pedestrian Injuries in Los Angeles County: A Worsening Crisis
According to the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS):
- Los Angeles County led the state in pedestrian fatalities and severe injuries in 2022, with more than 4,700 victims.
- The City of Los Angeles alone accounts for roughly one-third of all pedestrian deaths statewide. (ots.ca.gov)
The Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT) reports that pedestrians make up more than 50% of all traffic deaths despite representing less than 15% of commuters.
According to the California Highway Patrol’s SWITRS database, the San Fernando Valley, including Sherman Oaks, continues to record some of the region’s highest pedestrian injury rates — particularly at crosswalks and multi-lane intersections. (tims.berkeley.edu)
Why Sherman Oaks Pedestrians Face Higher Risk
Sherman Oaks’ dense mix of commercial zones, freeway on-ramps, and retail corridors creates conditions ripe for danger:
- High-volume intersections with heavy turning traffic on Ventura Blvd and Sepulveda Blvd.
- Limited mid-block crossings, forcing pedestrians to cross at long intervals.
- Nighttime lighting challenges and poor visibility near storefront parking areas.
- Driver distractions, especially from rideshare apps and mobile devices.
- Speeding, which increases both crash risk and fatality severity.
The City of Los Angeles’ High-Injury Network Map identifies several Sherman Oaks corridors as high-risk for pedestrians, including Ventura Blvd between Hazeltine Ave and Van Nuys Blvd and Coldwater Canyon Ave near Riverside Drive. (visionzero.lacity.org)
Common Causes of Pedestrian Collisions
Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and OTS highlight leading causes:
- Failure to Yield at Crosswalks – drivers turning left or right without checking for pedestrians.
- Distracted Driving – texting, navigation, or rideshare app usage.
- Speeding – small increases in speed drastically raise fatality rates.
- Impaired Driving – alcohol and drug impairment remain top factors.
- Unsafe Backing or Parking-Lot Accidents – frequent near retail centers.
- Poor Lighting or Visibility – especially at dawn, dusk, or nighttime.
The NHTSA notes that 74% of pedestrian fatalities occur at night, and 73% occur outside intersections — patterns mirrored in Los Angeles County. (nhtsa.gov)
The Human Cost of Pedestrian Accidents
Because pedestrians lack protection, injuries are often catastrophic. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that pedestrians are 1.5 times more likely than vehicle occupants to be killed in traffic crashes. (cdc.gov)
Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Spinal cord damage and paralysis
- Fractures and orthopedic trauma
- Internal organ damage
- Severe lacerations or amputations
- Emotional trauma and PTSD
For survivors, recovery can take months or years, with long-term medical and emotional consequences.
Local Hotspots for Pedestrian Collisions in Sherman Oaks
Based on LADOT and CHP data, key high-risk areas include:
- Ventura Blvd @ Sepulveda Blvd – high traffic and heavy turning movements.
- Burbank Blvd @ Van Nuys Blvd – frequent crosswalk crashes.
- Coldwater Canyon Ave @ Riverside Dr – limited visibility, high speeds.
- Hazeltine Ave near Ventura Blvd – high retail and parking-lot traffic.
The Los Angeles Vision Zero Action Plan specifically lists Ventura Blvd as a High Injury Corridor, emphasizing design changes like leading pedestrian intervals and improved lighting to reduce deaths.
The DJ Law Corp 4-Step Legal Process
Step 1 — Free Consultation
We start with a no-cost review of your case. Our attorneys assess police reports, medical records, and potential liability.
Step 2 — Investigation & Evidence Gathering
We collect photos, video footage, witness statements, and crosswalk-camera data. We also analyze traffic-engineering reports and vehicle-speed data from the LAPD.
Step 3 — Demand & Negotiation
We calculate medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering, then negotiate aggressively with insurance companies and at-fault parties.
Step 4 — Litigation if Necessary
If a fair settlement isn’t offered, DJ Law Corp is ready to litigate in Los Angeles County Superior Court using accident-reconstruction and medical experts.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
California law allows pedestrian victims to recover both economic and non-economic damages, including:
- Medical costs: emergency care, surgery, rehabilitation.
- Future care: physical therapy, assistive devices, and home modifications.
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering, emotional distress.
- Property damage (clothing, electronics, personal items).
- Punitive damages for reckless or drunk driving.
If the collision was fatal, surviving family members may also pursue wrongful-death compensation under Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 377.60.
Legal Rights and Time Limits
Under California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1, you generally have two years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit.
If the vehicle was owned by a public agency (e.g., city bus or maintenance truck), a claim must be filed within six months under Gov. Code § 911.2.
Prompt action ensures evidence such as intersection footage and vehicle data isn’t lost.
Safety Laws Protecting Pedestrians
California law clearly defines drivers’ duties toward pedestrians:
- Vehicle Code § 21950: Drivers must yield to pedestrians crossing within marked or unmarked crosswalks.
- Vehicle Code § 22350: Prohibits driving faster than is safe for conditions.
- Vehicle Code § 21954: Even outside crosswalks, drivers must exercise due care to avoid pedestrians.
Local agencies, including LADOT, are expanding “Leading Pedestrian Intervals” (LPIs), which give walkers a 3- to 5-second head start at crosswalks to reduce crashes by up to 60%. (ladot.lacity.org)
What To Do Immediately After a Pedestrian Collision
- Call 911 and request both medical and police assistance.
- Get driver information — license, insurance, and plate number.
- Collect witness contacts and note the time, lighting, and signals.
- Take photos of your injuries, the intersection, and any skid marks or debris.
- Obtain the police report via LAPD’s online portal. (lapdonline.org)
- Seek medical care immediately — many serious injuries appear hours later.
- Contact DJ Law Corp before discussing the crash with insurers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What if I was jaywalking?
You may still recover damages. California’s comparative negligence law reduces — but doesn’t eliminate — compensation if you were partly at fault.
What if the driver fled the scene?
We can pursue claims under uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage and use LAPD hit-and-run data to locate the vehicle.
What if I was hit by an Uber or Lyft driver?
Rideshare companies carry up to $1 million in insurance when passengers are onboard or a ride is in progress.
How long will my case take?
Many pedestrian-injury cases settle within 6–12 months, but serious-injury or disputed-liability cases may take longer.
Do I need to pay upfront?
No. DJ Law Corp works entirely on contingency — you pay only if we win.
Why Choose DJ Law Corp
- Local Knowledge: We understand Sherman Oaks’ intersections, traffic data, and court procedures.
- Evidence-Based Strategy: We rely exclusively on verified data from OTS, LADOT, CHP, and CDC.
- Compassionate Counsel: We treat every case with dignity and care.
- No Win, No Fee: You owe nothing unless we secure compensation.
- Direct Access: Communicate directly with your attorney, not an intake service.
Community Safety Initiatives in Sherman Oaks and Los Angeles
Local and regional programs aim to make streets safer for pedestrians:
- Vision Zero LA: Targets eliminating all traffic deaths by 2035 through enforcement and street redesign. (visionzero.lacity.org)
- Safe Streets LA: Expands bike and pedestrian infrastructure citywide.
- Speed Safety Camera Pilot (2024): Installing automated enforcement on high-injury corridors. (ladot.lacity.org)
- Caltrans Active Transportation Program: Funds crosswalk and lighting upgrades throughout Los Angeles County. (dot.ca.gov)
While these initiatives are improving safety, hundreds of pedestrians in LA County are still injured or killed annually due to driver negligence — underscoring the need for legal accountability.
Real Client Reviews

Researching for the best lawyer for my injury was one of the most difficult things I have ever done. I did the work for you, look no further. Arthur and Jacqui will work hard and advocate for you all the way to get you the maximum settlement. I was even more confident if my case would have went to trial.

I was in a car wreck when a cement truck decided to run a red light causing me to swerve into oncoming traffic. I reached out to different firms but many either didn’t respond back or didn’t want to take the case. Arthur took me on as a client without hesitation and was nothing but respectful and communicated with me every step of the way. I am appreciative of him and his team and I highly recommend him if you’re looking for someone to help you with a personal injury!

this guy helped me battle and win a case after an accident i’d been involved in.

I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Arthur for a year, and in that time, I’ve been continually impressed by his professionalism and dedication. As an attorney, he brings not only a deep understanding of the law but also a genuine commitment to his clients’ best interests. Arthur’s sharp legal mind, clear communication, and integrity make him an outstanding advocate. I have absolutely no hesitation in recommending him to those in need of a great attorney!

I was in a car accident about a year ago, and I’m so grateful I hired Arthur to represent me. He helped me get the maximum settlement possible, and I couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome. From the start, he was kind, knowledgeable, and incredibly patient. He always made time to answer my questions and walked me through the process step by step.

When I was rear ended, my car was messed up and so was I. If you need someone to represent you that is professional, caring and will really fight for you, call Arthur Djougourian. He now my go to Lawyer. Thank you so much for helping me settle my case

Arthur Djougourian and his paralegal made everything so easy. They are genuinely friendly and personable, and, I feel confident they got every penny they could for me! Thank you, Arthur Djougourian!

My personal injury lawyer was Arthur Djougourian, accompanied with his paralegal team the helped me with my Uber lawsuit. They were very patient, communicative with walking me through the steps I can take to win a settlement. I honestly am so grateful and appreciative and really can’t thank them enough. If there is a injury attorney I could recommend, it would be Arthur Djougourian

Arthur is an exceptional lawyer. As my attorney, he ensured that all my medical needs were met and that I was properly compensated for my losses. He is very professional and goes above and beyond for his clients. If you find yourself in need of legal representation, Arthur is the attorney to turn to.

I had an excellent experience with Arthur Djougourian and his team after my accident. From the very beginning, they were attentive, professional, and genuinely cared about my well-being. They guided me through every step of the process, ensuring I understood my options and felt supported.

I had a great experience with Djougourian Law Corp. I was worried I would not win anything from the settlement I had also never hired a lawyer before so I was very worried about the logistics and Arthur was very good about explaining everything and expedited the process!

If they had more stars i would give him the max. My case was very difficult and had a lot of moving parts and quite honestly other attorney’s passed on but not Arthur from the beginning he put me at ease and actually took the time to get to know me. Arthur’s legal knowledge is beyond approach and opposing counsel knows up front Arthur is not playing and you can dispense with the nonsense and let’s get to business. If Arthur is on your side rest assured you have the best and just watch him work you will not be disappointed

I want to express my gratitude to Lawyer Arthur Djougourian, for helping us in an accident case, he really helped us, the negotiation was a very pleasant experience, his mastery in this art contributed to us receiving what was appropriate, always attentive, responding to our calls and our questions, I loved it because his service is a gentleman, if you need a Lawyer, I fully recommend him, thank you Arthur for such good attention.
Arthur and his paralegal helped me through my injury case. It was a real pleasure having their legal advice available to me in a time when I couldn’t think straight or even figure out what to do after my accident injury.
I couldn’t be happier with the results at the end of the case. It did take some time, but as did my medical treatments after my injury. My faith was well placed.
Thank you Arthur for taking the time to help me through one of the toughest situations in my life. You guys are incredible!

Arthur is truly one of the most remarkable individuals you’ll ever meet. His integrity is unwavering, and his commitment to doing the right thing, no matter the circumstances, is deeply inspiring. Arthur possesses a rare blend of empathy and intellect, and what sets Arthur apart is his ability to foster meaningful connections and create an atmosphere of trust and collaboration wherever he goes. His calm demeanor, sharp insight, and compassion have a way of making even the most complex challenges feel manageable. Arthur’s humility, along with his strong sense of purpose, makes him someone who not only earns respect but also inspires others to be their best selves. Simply put, knowing Arthur is a privilege, and anyone who has him in their corner is truly fortunate.

Arthur was wonderful with my case. Very responsive whenever I needed to reach out to him. Very understanding and reassured me each time as I was nervous during the entire case. I definitely recommend working with him, it was a smooth process!

Best experience ever , will truly recommend to trust and get help from Djougourian Law Corp at all of times, very fast to solve problems, very convenient,a lot of communication back and forth, Djougourian Law Corp will take care of you at all times.

Arthur is an incredible attorney! If I could give him more than five stars I would! He was beyond helpful with my accident case, making a stressful situation much easier. He’s knowledgeable, responsive, and truly cares about his clients. Arthur has since become my go-to for any legal issues, and he always goes above and beyond. If you need a dedicated and trustworthy attorney, I can’t recommend him and Djougourian Law Corp enough!

I cannot recommend Djougouruan Law Corp enough. Arthur took the time to listen and make sure I had the necessary care after the car accident. Arthur was fantastic and he truly cares about his clients and will make sure you are represented with excellence. He is an experienced attorney with a cool, calm demeanor. I’m extremely happy with my results.
The Economic & Emotional Impact
The National Safety Council (NSC) estimates that the average economic cost of a pedestrian fatality exceeds $1.7 million, and a disabling injury costs about $100,000 in medical and productivity losses. (nsc.org)
Beyond numbers, survivors face months of rehabilitation, psychological distress, and loss of independence. DJ Law Corp ensures your settlement reflects the true scope of both physical and emotional harm.
How DJ Law Corp Helps You Recover
- Medical Coordination: We connect you with top orthopedic and rehabilitation specialists.
- Financial Guidance: We manage medical liens and lost-income documentation.
- Legal Strength: We use certified crash data, witness evidence, and expert testimony to build your claim.
- Ongoing Support: We remain by your side from consultation through settlement or trial.
Conclusion — Justice for Pedestrian Collision Victims in Sherman Oaks
Walking in Sherman Oaks shouldn’t be dangerous — but for too many Angelenos, careless drivers turn everyday walks into life-changing events. From Ventura Boulevard to Burbank Boulevard, pedestrian safety depends on accountability.
At DJ Law Corp, we stand up for victims and families across Sherman Oaks and Los Angeles County, combining compassionate representation with data-driven results. We’ll fight for the justice and compensation you deserve while you focus on healing.
📧 arthur@djlawcorp.com
🌐 djlawcorp.com
📞 818-530-0000
📍 Sherman Oaks
📞 Call DJ Law Corp today for a free, no-obligation consultation, or fill out our secure online contact form.
Let us protect your rights — and help make our streets safer for everyone.
