[04-20-2025] Los Angeles County, CA – One Killed, Four Injured in Wrong-Way Crash on Santa Monica Freeway Near Downtown LA

One person was killed and at least four others were injured in a multi-vehicle crash triggered by a wrong-way driver on the Santa Monica (10) Freeway near downtown Los Angeles early Sunday morning, April 20, 2025.

The California Highway Patrol reported that the crash occurred around 5:25 a.m. on the westbound lanes of the freeway, just east of Central Avenue. A vehicle was reportedly traveling eastbound in the westbound lanes at the time of the collision.

Authorities said the crash involved a white pickup truck and a dark-colored sedan. At approximately 5:33 a.m., the Los Angeles Police Department confirmed that the crash was caused by a wrong-way driver.

The Los Angeles Fire Department transported four injured individuals to a local hospital. One person was pronounced dead at the scene. Their identity has not yet been released.

The CHP is investigating the cause of the fatal collision.

Contact Our Award-Winning Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyers

If you’ve sustained injuries in a car accident, daily life can become overwhelming. Medical bills, lost wages, and dealing with insurance companies can add to your stress. Our Los Angeles car accident lawyers are here to uphold your rights and get you paid.

We have years of experience handling car accident cases and are familiar with local courts and insurance tactics. We manage all legal steps, including negotiations, so that you can focus on recovery.

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What To Do After A Car Accident In Los Angeles, CA

After a car accident, it’s common to feel overwhelmed by confusion, fear, and uncertainty. You might have a lot of questions — “What do I do next? Should I hire a lawyer? Is there a car accident law firm near me?”

Remember, the decisions you make immediately following the crash can significantly impact your health and the compensation you may be entitled to. We recommend taking the following steps:

1. Ensure Safety — One of the most important responsibilities after an accident is to keep everyone safe and avoid pileups. Turn on your hazards and move your car to the side of the road. If someone needs immediate medical attention, dial 911.
2. Check Yourself For Injuries — Before you help others, take a moment to check yourself for injuries. Keep in mind that adrenaline can occasionally conceal the pain.
3. Collect Evidence — If possible, document the scene with photographs and videos. Write down any witnesses’ contact information and collect the other driver’s license, registration, and insurance.
4. Get Checked In The Hospital — Even if you feel well after the crash, get checked by the paramedics or go to the emergency room. A medical record may be useful in your case.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company — Report the accident to your insurance company. Provide truthful and accurate information about what happened. Stick to the basics and avoid making recorded statements without first checking with your lawyer.
6. Consult An Attorney — Our car accident lawyers in Los Angeles can be your best ally during this difficult time. We can help you safeguard your rights and receive fair compensation.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Car Accident Statistics

Based on data released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in 2022, motor vehicle accidents accounted for 20% of the total preventable injury-related deaths in the United States. This highlights the significant impact of road safety on public health.

In 2023, traffic safety saw a slight improvement. Approximately 19,515 deaths involving traffic crashes were recorded from January to June 2023, reflecting a 3.3% decrease compared to the 20,190 deaths reported in the first half of 2022. This reduction suggests progress in traffic safety initiatives, although fatalities remain a critical concern.

According to the latest Transportation Injury Mapping System (TIMS) data, there were 10,822 crashes in Los Angeles in 2024 that resulted in injuries or fatalities.