If you’ve ever asked yourself, “How many car crashes happen a day in California?” you’ve likely been concerned seeing the seemingly endless number of traffic accidents that occur across the state every day. A Roseville car accident lawyer can be an important asset in the event of a collision on California’s highways.
It’s important to be aware of the various ways a car collision can happen so that you may remain more aware and equipped should you be involved in an accident. If you have concerns after an accident or someone you loved died in such an event, our firm can help.
Common Reasons for Traffic Crashes in California
Distracted driving continues to be one of the most prevalent contributors to car crashes across the country. In order to drive safely, a motorist needs to maintain their full attention on the road, which requires using the majority of their faculties.
Drivers who are distracted physically – eating, drinking, reaching for something out of arm’s length, checking their reflection, adjusting the radio, or looking at their phone, are just as likely to cause an accident as drivers who are caught up in a phone call or conversation with a passenger or distracted mentally, daydreaming or upset about a personal issue. Other variations of impaired driving – like while drunk, high, or fatigued – are also very dangerous.
Speeding while driving is among the most common reasons for serious injuries and deaths caused by traffic collisions. High speeds increase the force of impact and lead to more significant damage. The same holds true for motorists driving aggressively or recklessly, ignoring general traffic laws and regulations, as well as not watching for other drivers before turning or switching lanes.
Statistics About Traffic Accidents in California
In 2023, more than 40,000 fatalities occurred nationwide following catastrophic car crashes that unfortunately happen every day. Within the state of California, the rate of accidents continues to rise each year. Los Angeles has the highest rate of fatal traffic collisions out of all California cities. In 2022, there were more than 300 deaths – the highest number of car accident-related fatalities for the first time in two decades.
This all-time high was a six percent increase from the fatality rate in 2021 and a 29 percent increase from the amount of deadly motor vehicle accidents that happened in 2020. The greater Los Angeles County is also the county with the highest number of fatal traffic collisions out of the entire state, seeing over 800 deaths following car crashes in 2022.
Common Injuries Following a Vehicle Collision
Even seemingly minor injuries after a car accident have the potential to cause the victim long-term pain, worsening health conditions, various medical bills, and other damages they would not have suffered were it not for the traffic collision. Whiplash injuries are common after an automobile crash, which entails afflictions of the neck and back (e.g., muscle strains, nerve damage) caused by the body jostling or jerking suddenly back and forth following the force of impact.
Other common physical injuries include lacerations, scrapes, bruising, internal bleeding, traumatic damage to the brain and other organs, and broken bones, as well as compound fractures and shattered bones. Some injuries, such as amputated limbs or partial/full paralysis, cause irreparable damage to the victim, creating lifelong health complications or permanent impacts to the person’s life.
FAQs
Q: How Many Fatal Cars Crash a Year in California?
A: On average, in California, there are about 4,000 fatalities resulting from car crashes each year. Additionally, the annual number of traffic collisions resulting in serious bodily injuries is more than 18,500 crashes on average, which results in around over 21,000 total serious injuries or deaths each year.
Q: Which City Has the Most Car Accidents in California?
A: The California city that reports the highest number of motor vehicle accidents is, by far, Los Angeles. In 2022, the city’s average rate of traffic-related fatalities rose past the 300 mark for the first time in two decades. Data from 2019 through 2023 showed that Los Angeles County overall saw an average of more than 4,000 car collisions that resulted in death or serious injuries each year, with an average of 4,700 total incidents of severe bodily injuries.
Q: Why Is Speeding Likely to Cause Traffic Accidents?
A: Speeding is one of the most dangerous driving behaviors. This reckless disregard for traffic law puts not only the driver in danger but also their passengers’ lives and the lives of other drivers or pedestrians nearby.
Driving at high speeds impacts the motorist’s ability to slow down and stop in time when faced with an unexpected obstruction or change in their environment. Fast-moving vehicles cause more damage and injuries compared to cars that adhere to the local posted speed limit.
Q: Why are There So Many Car Accidents in California?
A: Traffic incidents happen nationwide on a daily basis, but California likely sees a relatively high number of collisions due to the state’s large population and high number of visitors.
In urban and suburban areas, there are several ways an accident can happen with the high amount of traffic and a large number of elderly drivers, young and inexperienced drivers, and visiting motorists not familiar with the area.
Q: What Roads in California Have the Most Accidents?
A: Roads that are frequently traveled throughout California tend to have the most traffic accidents. Roadways such as highways and main thoroughfares in and around urban areas have fast-moving traffic, a high rate of drivers, and, as a result, a high rate of accidents.
These conditions are more likely to result in car collisions than backroads and roadways in rural areas because congested roads and highways move at high speeds, which makes it harder for motorists to react to non-ideal conditions and sudden hazards.
An Experienced Injury Law Can Ensure You Recover Damages
The Ward Firm has helped countless clients receive a fair settlement payout related to injuries and other subsequent damages from a negligent car accident. Contact our legal team today to speak with a lawyer who will make sure the liable party is held accountable, negotiating or even going to trial on your behalf.
