An estimated 19,515 people died in car accidents on American roads in 2024. Car accidents are one of life’s unavoidable dangers, but the rates of car collisions range considerably from county to county and city to city in California. So, which county in California has the most car accidents?
If you or a loved one was injured in an automobile accident, a Sacramento car accident lawyer can help you determine if the at-fault driver would be liable for damages.
Which California County Has the Most Accidents?
Los Angeles County has the highest number of vehicle and truck accidents in California. Between 1,000 and 1,500 automobile collisions occur in the county every week on average. The county consistently has the highest countrywide accident rate in the state year after year. Los Angeles County also has the highest number of fatal car accidents in California.
In 2022, Los Angeles County had more than 300 fatalities, making a grim milestone when it comes to traffic safety in the large urban county. As of 2024, the fatal accident rate for Los Angeles County is on pace to match or surpass the 2022 rate.
Common Causes of Vehicle Accidents in Los Angeles County
While every car accident is unique, there are common causes that a can or truck hit another truck or a stationary object. In Los Angeles County and across the country, distracted driving is a common cause of vehicle accidents. Increasingly, texting is the root cause of a distracted driving accident.
Speeding is another cause of distracted driving. Los Angeles city officials found that speeding was a leading contributor to fatal car crashes in 2022. When a vehicle drives in excess of the speed limit or faster than is safe given the road or weather conditions, they place themselves and others in grave danger. Driving too fast does not allow for proper reaction time. When an accident does occur, speed can make the collision much more dangerous and potentially deadly.
When someone drives while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, they may drive more recklessly than they would normally drive. Penalties for driving under the influence are severe in California, but people still drive when they are under the intoxicating effects of alcohol, drugs, or prescription drugs. A DUI can lead to jail time, fines, and loss of driving privileges.
Reckless driving, sometimes called road rage, occurs when people fail to consider the safety of others when driving aggressively on the road. Reckless driving is a criminal offense. Dangerous driving behavior can lead to serious criminal consequences, especially if someone is hurt as a result of reckless driving.
Negligent driving refers to any failure to follow posted signs or to traverse a road or intersection without consideration for other drivers. An example would be an illegal turn or failure to stop at a stop sign or red light.
What Happens After a Car Accident in California?
California is a fault state when it comes to car accidents. This means that the at-fault driver is responsible for paying for the damage they caused. This is done by filing a claim with the other driver’s car insurance provider. Insurance companies are in the game of making money. They may delay your payment or offer you far less than you should receive. A car accident attorney can negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.
When the at-fault driver has minimal insurance or no insurance, you can sue them directly. By working with an experienced personal injury lawyer, you can hold the negligent driver accountable.
FAQs
What City in California Has the Highest Deadly Accident Rate?
Los Angeles has the highest rate of deadly accidents in the state. In 2022, the county topped 300 traffic-related deaths for the first time in three decades. Speeding was cited as a leading cause of fatal driving accidents in Los Angeles County. Improper turning (a common cause of semi-truck accidents) and impaired driving were also top causes of fatal accidents. A wrongful death can lead to both criminal charges and civil liabilities for the at-fault driver.
Are Highways Deadlier Than Small Rural Roads in California?
Accidents, particularly serious ones, are more common on fast-moving roads and highways compared to slower back roads, according to national data. One contributing factor is speed: higher speeds lead to more severe damage and make it more difficult to anticipate changing driving conditions. Additionally, highways and fast-moving roads tend to have higher congestion and more vehicles, increasing the likelihood of distractions or speeding by drivers.
What Happens When a Los Angeles County Driver Does Not Have Insurance?
Despite California law mandating auto insurance for every driver, the state has high levels of uninsured motorists. If you were injured in an accident and the at-fault driver is uninsured, you can file a claim against your own insurance policy if you have uninsured motorist coverage. Otherwise, you retain the right to pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver.
What Is the Leading Cause of Accidents in California?
The leading cause of car crashes in California is distracted driving. When someone takes their attention off the road, they are less able to react to changing driving conditions. Distracted driving results from taking your eyes off the road or hands off the wheel. It also results from losing focus on the task of driving. Smartphones are a major source of distracted driving in California.
Schedule Your Car Accident Consultation Today
If you live in Los Angeles County, then you know how common car accidents are. Distracted drivers, speeding, and other negligent acts can cause an accident that leaves innocent victims injured or killed. When someone causes another person harm due to negligence or misconduct, they can be held accountable through legal action.
A lawyer from The Ward Firm is prepared to negotiate and even go to trial to help you receive fair compensation for your injuries. We prioritize our clients’ experiences, and we listen to your concerns while giving your case the attention it deserves. Our attorneys have many years of experience helping injured parties receive favorable settlements. To schedule your consultation, contact our office today.
