What City Has The Most Car Accidents In California?

California’s mild weather and sunny skies invite tourists and residents alike to visit the beach, hike along its most beautiful trails, or explore lush state parks all year long. On the downside, the vast highway network, ranging from urban hubs to remote highways, contributes to thousands of traffic accidents in the Golden State. These collisions result in injuries, fatalities, and property damage annually.

According to the data recorded by UC Berkeley’s Transportation Injury Mapping System (TIMS), Los Angeles City had the most car accidents in California, with 9,407 recorded incidents in 2023.

Which California City Has The Highest Car Accident Rate?

Unsurprisingly, Los Angeles, as one of the nation’s most populous cities, has always ranked high in traffic accident rates. According to provisional data from TIMS, Los Angeles recorded 10,760 traffic collisions in 2023, resulting in 326 fatalities and 15,126 injured victims. Of these accidents, 9,407 involved passenger cars and pickup trucks. Speeding is a significant factor contributing to a high number of fatal crashes in Los Angeles. The city’s infrastructure, with its extensive network of highways and congested streets, also adds to the challenges of safe driving.

The 2023 Global Traffic Scorecard report by INRIX, a transportation analytics company, revealed that Los Angeles occupies the third spot among U.S. cities with the most severe traffic congestion. Heavy traffic increases the likelihood of collisions due to reduced visibility, decreased reaction time, and increased pressure on drivers. Congestion can also lead to frustration and aggressive driving behaviors, such as speeding, tailgating, and lane weaving.

Intersections with multiple lanes and turning points can be challenging for many drivers. Furthermore, intersections with complex traffic signal patterns, such as multiple phases or flashing lights, require drivers to pay close attention to understand the sequence of traffic flow.

Here are some of the most dangerous intersections in the city:

Other California Cities With The Highest Car Accident Rates

Car accidents are common in California due to the many residents and visitors who travel to and from the state. Which cities in the state see the most collisions? Based on 2023 data, San Diego, Sacramento, San Jose, and San Francisco recorded the most traffic accidents besides Los Angeles.

San Diego

Despite its scenic coastal landscapes, San Diego also experiences a significant number of accidents. Provisional data from TIMS recorded 5,725 traffic collisions in the city in 2023, which led to the deaths of 85 individuals and injuries to 7,661 victims. Of these collisions, 5,092 involved passenger cars and pickup trucks.

Freeways like I-5 and I-8, often congested with traffic, contribute significantly to the high accident rate. In fact, 34% of all traffic collisions in the state, or 1,914 incidents, occurred on state highways. Tourist-heavy areas like the San Diego Zoo are also prone to accidents due to increased traffic volume and unfamiliar routes.

Sacramento

Sacramento is the capital of California. It is the fourth-largest city in northern California and the sixth-largest in the state by population. Because it is particularly crowded, Sacramento experiences many traffic crashes throughout the year. According to provisional data from TIMS, there were 3,564 traffic accidents in the city in 2023, which resulted in 55 fatalities and 5070 injured victims. Passenger cars and pickup trucks were involved in 3,422 of these collisions.

San Jose

San Jose is fourth on the list of cities with the most car accidents. In terms of area and population, it is the largest city in NorCal and the third-most populous city in the state after Los Angeles and San Diego.

As of September 24, 2024, data from TIMS showed that San Jose’s roads saw a shocking 3,445 traffic accidents in 2023, resulting in 27 tragic fatalities and 4,687 injuries. Passenger cars and pickup trucks were involved in 2,046 of these accidents.

The city’s notorious traffic congestion is a major culprit, with accident hotspots including Willow Street, Fruitdale Avenue, and the dangerous intersection of Tully Road and McLaughlin Avenue. These statistics underscore the urgent need for improved road infrastructure and traffic management solutions to prevent further loss of life.

San Francisco

The unique hilly terrain and narrow streets in San Francisco make driving particularly challenging. The combination of steep inclines, dense pedestrian traffic, and limited visibility frequently leads to accidents in the city. These factors contribute to its fifth-place ranking among U.S. cities with the most traffic accidents in 2023. With 3,241 traffic collisions recorded on TIMS as of September 24, 2024, the city recorded a staggering 4,233 victims, including 33 fatalities. There were 2,859 collisions involving passenger cars and pickup trucks.

Following closely behind, Long Beach, Anaheim, Oakland, Riverside, and Santa Ana also experienced many car accidents in 2023. These cities also faced similar challenges in terms of traffic congestion and complex road layouts.

These statistics are more than just numbers; they reflect the lives of real people who have been deeply affected. Each figure tells a story of loss, pain, and hardship. These numbers symbolize families grieving, individuals struggling with injuries, workers facing unemployment, and communities bearing the burden of property damage.

California’s Deadliest Highways

The most dangerous highways in California are also worth noting. Several major highways run through the state, often divided into county borders. Nine out of ten of the state’s deadliest roads within these borders have seen increasing fatality rates since 2018. The following are the top 10 deadliest roads in California, based on the number of fatalities from 2022 to 2018.

Interstate 15 in San Bernardino County claims the grim title of deadliest highway in 2022, with a tragic 48 fatalities. Orange County’s Interstate 5 is notorious for its high rate of speeding-related deaths, accounting for 50% of all fatalities on that stretch. Meanwhile, U.S. Route 101 in Santa Clara County has the highest percentage of alcohol-related fatalities, with nearly 31% of all collisions involving a drunk driver.

Below is a detailed breakdown of the fatalities on each highway:

If you have lost a loved one in a car accident on one of these dangerous highways, our experienced wrongful death lawyers are here to help. We understand the devastating impact that such a loss can have, and we are committed to holding those responsible accountable. Our compassionate car accident lawyers will assist you during your time of grieving to ensure that you’ll recover all current and potential losses.

Most Common Types Of Car Accidents In California

Even though each collision is unique, there are patterns in how they occur. The following are the most common types of car accidents in California:

Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end collisions occur when a vehicle crashes into the back of the vehicle ahead of it. These accidents are often caused by driver inattention and tailgating. When drivers fail to maintain a safe following distance, they may not have enough time to react if the vehicle ahead suddenly stops. This is a particularly serious issue with big rigs, as their stopping distance is much longer. If truckers are not paying close attention, they could cause a truck accident with the car in front.

While rear-end collisions are often caused by following too closely, the driver of the lead vehicle can also be at fault. Abrupt stops or reversing in active lanes can contribute to these accidents.

Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions are among the most common and dangerous types of car accidents. These occur when two vehicles moving toward each other collide. As such, the impact force is multiplied, resulting in severe injuries or death. Distracted driving, drunk driving, driver fatigue, speeding, and reckless driving are some of the most common causes of head-on collisions.

Side-Impact (T-Bone) Collisions

Side-impact or T-bone accidents occur when two vehicles collide at right angles, forming a ‘T’ shape. Occupants of vehicles involved in side-impact collisions are at a higher risk of injury or death compared to those in front- or rear-end collisions. This increased risk is due to the thinner structure and reduced mass on the sides of vehicles, which provide less protection against the impact.

Side-impact collisions often occur when drivers disregard traffic laws, such as failing to yield or running red lights. Injured victims can hold the at-fault drivers liable when such negligence leads to an accident.

Sideswipe Accidents

A sideswipe accident occurs when two or more vehicles traveling in parallel make contact, with one vehicle crashing into the side of another. These accidents typically happen when drivers fail to check their blind spots before merging or changing lanes. Other common causes include driver inattention, recklessness, speeding, distractions such as cell phone use, and impairment due to alcohol or drugs.

Such collisions can cause one or both vehicles to lose control, leading to dangerous outcomes. A vehicle might swerve off the road, cross into other lanes, or crash into road users or objects. The chain reaction caused by a sideswipe collision can turn a minor incident into a major accident with potentially life-threatening consequences.

Single-Vehicle Accidents

In this type of accident, a driver typically collides with an animal, dropped cargo, or road debris from another vehicle. These accidents can also happen when a driver swerves to avoid a hazard, resulting in a crash into a lamppost, guardrail, or another object. Even though only one vehicle is involved, injuries can be severe, especially if the vehicle collides with a large object or rolls over.

Poor weather and the driver’s medical condition can also contribute to these accidents. Some crashes are caused by another party’s negligence. An example is a highway construction accident resulting from poorly managed work zones or inadequate signage. Another contributing factor is careless driving that forces another motorist to swerve off the road to avoid a collision.

Multi-Vehicle Accidents

When three or more vehicles are involved in a collision, the risk of severe injuries or fatalities significantly increases. The legal complexities also escalate as determining the liable parties and their percentage of fault becomes more challenging.

Insurance companies often point fingers in these situations, each trying to shift blame to minimize their financial responsibility. This can lead to prolonged disputes, making it difficult for victims to receive timely compensation for their injuries and damages. Additionally, the involvement of multiple insurance companies further complicates the process, as each insurer may have different policies and tactics for handling claims.

If you’ve been a victim of such a tragic accident, getting an attorney for a car accident is worth it. They can protect your rights and will fight against other parties when they try to blame you. Your legal counsel will also ensure you receive full compensation covering all your damages and losses.

Rollover Accidents

Rollover accidents are among the most dangerous types of vehicle crashes because they involve extreme forces that can lead to severe injuries or fatalities. The violent motion of a vehicle flipping over significantly increases the risk of occupants being ejected, especially if they are not wearing seat belts.

Additionally, rollover accidents can result in fuel or cargo spills. A spark could cause fires, potentially causing burns and other fire-related injuries. The combination of these factors makes rollover accidents particularly catastrophic and even deadly.

Several factors can contribute to rollover accidents, such as excessive speed, distracted driving, drunk driving, and fatigue. Other causes include driving off the road shoulder or being forced off the road by other vehicles or objects. Collisions involving semi-trucks hitting smaller cars can also significantly increase the likelihood of a rollover.

Low-Speed Accidents

Low-speed accidents, often thought of as minor, can still result in significant injuries and vehicle damage. Even a relatively small vehicle weighing between 2,000 and 3,000 pounds can generate considerable force during a collision. Larger vehicles like SUVs, which can weigh between 5,000 and 6,000 pounds, are capable of causing more severe damage.

Pedestrians and cyclists are particularly vulnerable to injury or death in an accident, regardless of the vehicle’s speed. Common injuries sustained in low-speed collisions include whiplash, crush injuries, neck and back pain, broken bones, and head or facial trauma.

In addition to bodily injuries, low-speed accidents can result in significant vehicle damage. Bumpers, which are designed to absorb impact, can still sustain costly damage. Even minor misalignments from such accidents can lead to expensive repairs.

Merging Accidents

Merging into a packed traffic lane poses a challenge even for experienced drivers. To avoid accidents, drivers must carefully check their surroundings, merge at a safe speed, and drive cautiously. Additionally, other cars may inadvertently cause collisions when they accelerate to pass someone making a lane change. Injuries caused by merging accidents are often severe as vehicles trying to change lanes travel at high speeds.

Common Causes Of Car Accidents In California

Various factors, including driver negligence, human error, and defective vehicles, can cause accidents. However, the effects are often the same: destruction of property, severe injuries, or even death. The most common causes of car accidents in California are the following:

Speeding

Speeding is a major contributing factor to the high rate of traffic accidents in California. Driving at high speeds reduces reaction time, compromises one’s ability to maneuver the vehicle, and increases stopping distance. Moreover, since it is more difficult to slow down or stop, there’s a greater chance of hitting another car or pedestrian. The risk of death or serious injury is significantly higher in speeding-related accidents.

Impaired Driving

Alcohol consumption and the use of prescription and illegal drugs can both lead to impairment when driving. Impaired driving is one of the major causes of road accidents nationwide. Based on the data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, about 37 people die in drunk-driving crashes in the United States every day — that’s one every 39 minutes. In 2022 alone, 13,524 people were killed in traffic accidents caused by driving under the influence.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is another major issue in California. However, since it is difficult to prove that distraction was a factor in an accident, the exact number of distracted driving incidents is unknown.

Some California laws already address this persisting issue. For instance, smartphone use while driving is prohibited, even while stopped at a red light. However, certain dangerous distractions, like eating while driving, are not explicitly illegal. Unfortunately, these patterns persist because many drivers are unaware of or underestimate the danger of distracted driving accidents.

Failure To Check Blind Spots

Checking blind spots before changing lanes or merging is a crucial safety practice, but it’s often overlooked. Failing to do so can lead to accidents, where a driver collides with a vehicle in their blind spot. This scenario is a common cause of sideswipe collisions.

Smaller vehicles, like motorcycles and bicycles, can easily be hidden in the wide blind spots of larger vehicles. If drivers are not careful, they could cause motorcycle collisions and bicycle accidents. The severity of these incidents can vary depending on factors such as speed, angle of impact, and the type of vehicles involved.

Other Factors

Despite driver error being the most common cause of car accidents, other factors also contribute to accidents. These factors include:

1. Defects Or Breakdowns In The Vehicle — Auto defects caused by manufacturing errors or design flaws might cause an accident. Victims may file a product liability claim against the vehicle manufacturer.
2. Road Hazards — Dangerous road conditions, including potholes, oil spills, and missing signage, can contribute to accidents. Government agencies or road contractors tasked with maintaining road safety may be responsible in these cases.
3. Bad Weather — Adverse weather conditions can also cause car accidents. Wet roads after a downpour can cause rain-related accidents, while fog can lead to single-vehicle collisions due to reduced visibility. Hail and snow also create dangerous driving situations that increase the risk of accidents.

Injuries Commonly Reported In Car Accidents

A car accident can injure drivers, passengers, or innocent bystanders. The following are the most common injuries resulting from car accidents:

Head And Brain Injuries

A car accident victim could sustain different types of head and brain injuries, leading to varying outcomes. Here are some examples:

• Brain bleeds can develop slowly over a few days and can be fatal if left untreated.
• Skull fractures are caused by breaking or cracking one of the skull’s bones. In some cases, the pieces of the skull penetrate the brain, causing further damage.
• Hematoma, where blood pools outside the blood vessels and under the skull, can compress the brain. If untreated or left to grow, this condition can lead to serious complications, including brain damage, seizures, strokes, and even death.
• Concussions are common traumatic brain injuries caused by blows or jolts to the head. They can lead to confusion, loss of consciousness, and even death if swelling or pressure builds within the brain.

It is important to seek medical attention immediately after suffering a head injury in an auto accident. Prompt action will improve your prognosis. It can also help prevent you from developing some of the more severe psychological effects of brain injuries.

Back And Spine Damage

Motor vehicle accidents often result in back injuries. Victims could experience muscle strains and sprains, resulting in pain and limited movement. The spine could also be damaged in the crash, with consequences varying depending on the part that was affected.

• The cervical spine controls the head and neck. Injuries in this portion of the spine may affect the victim’s ability to breathe and move the arms.
• Injuries to the thoracic spine can result in permanent disability since it connects the chest and ribs.
• The lumbar spine provides upper-body support, distributes body weight, and moves the body. Injuries to the lumbar spine may limit movement and cause pain and swelling.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries are among the most severe outcomes of car accidents and other traumatic events. These injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis. They also often lead to loss of sensation, chronic pain, impaired respiratory function, and loss of bladder or bowel control. The impact of these injuries extends beyond physical limitations, as they can also result in depression, anxiety, and a diminished quality of life.

Broken Bones

Many car accidents result in broken bones or fractures due to the powerful forces involved. The following types of fractures may be seen in car accident victims:

• Stable Fractures — In this type of fracture, the bone is slightly misaligned, but the ends remain in alignment.
• Open Or Compound Fractures — They occur when the bone breaks through the skin. These fractures are particularly dangerous because they expose the bone to the external environment, increasing the risk of infection.
• Transverse Fractures — These fractures occur when the bone is broken horizontally, straight across.
• Oblique Fractures — Fractures with jagged or slanted edges are called oblique fractures.
• Comminuted Fractures — High-impact trauma can sometimes cause comminuted fractures, where the bone breaks into three or more pieces. They are challenging to treat due to the complexity of bone damage.

Although these fractures have different causes, they share common consequences: they can all significantly impact the victim’s life. Many suffer from prolonged pain, a loss of mobility, and the need for extensive medical treatment. In extreme cases, a fracture could lead to the amputation of the affected limb.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Strains and sprains are common soft tissue injuries that affect the ligaments, tendons, and muscles. Ligaments are tissues connecting two bones. When they are torn or stretched too far, that is called a sprain. Meanwhile, tendons are those that connect muscles to bones. When the tendons or muscles tear or overextend, a strain occurs.

Another common soft tissue injury is whiplash. It occurs when the head suddenly jerks in an accident, straining the back and neck muscles, ligaments, and nerves.

Damages You May Recover From Car Accident Claims

When you are injured in a car accident, you may be able to recover compensation from the at-fault party. Below are some common categories of monetary damages in personal injury cases:

• Medical services you need to treat your injuries.
• The future medical care your doctor anticipates you will require.
• The need for long-term care if injuries render you unable to live on your own.
• The physical discomfort, inconvenience, and emotional distress caused by the accident.
• Disfigurement from extensive scarring.
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Loss of enjoyment of life.

If a car accident results in the tragic loss of a family member, you may be eligible to pursue damages in a wrongful death claim with the help of a good car accident lawyer. This legal action allows you to hold the negligent party accountable for the losses you incurred.

What To Do When You Get In A Car Accident In California

Car accidents can range from minor inconveniences to devastating tragedies. While some accidents may only cause temporary frustration, others can result in serious injuries or even fatalities. Regardless of the specific circumstances, here’s a basic guide on what you should do after a car accident:

Remain At The Scene

If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location off the roadway. Stop at a safe spot and activate your hazard lights to avoid further collisions, but don’t leave the area.

Check For Injuries And Seek Medical Attention

Assess yourself and others involved for any injuries. Begin by checking for visible signs, such as bleeding, bruising, or swelling. Ask everyone if they are experiencing pain, dizziness, or difficulty moving. Be mindful of less obvious injuries, such as head trauma, internal bleeding, or shock, which might not be immediately apparent but can still be serious.

If anyone has a serious injury, call 911 immediately to get police and medical personnel to the scene. Avoid moving anyone who has been hurt unless they are in immediate danger, such as lying in the middle of the road or trapped in a burning vehicle.

Contact The Local Authorities

Contact the local police directly to report the accident. This step is crucial for documenting the incident and ensuring that an official accident report is filed. If you cannot call for help — such as if your phone is broken — try to signal another motorist or bystander for assistance.

Exchange Information

Exchange information with all parties involved in the accident. Get their full name, address, phone number, and license and insurance information. If there are witnesses, get their names and contact numbers as well. By gathering this information, you protect your interests and ensure you have the necessary details for insurance claims and any potential legal actions.

Collect Evidence

Document everything related to the accident, ensuring you capture the whole scene. Take photos of the damage to your vehicle and the license plates of other involved vehicles. Capture your injuries as well. Also, take note of other elements on the scene, such as traffic signals, landmarks, skid marks, potholes, traffic cameras, and the weather.

Cooperate With The Police

Once the police arrive, answer questions honestly and concisely. You should not volunteer additional information or attempt to analyze the crash beyond what you know. Do not take responsibility for the accident or place blame on anyone else. The police must document and report everything about the accident as accurately as possible. Before you leave the scene, they should give you the reference number of the police report for your accident. This will help you obtain a copy of the police report later on.

Inform Your Insurance Carrier

Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the accident. Follow the guidelines outlined in your policy. Avoid speculating or making assumptions about the cause of the accident. Let your insurance adjuster handle the investigation and determination of fault.

Speculative statements can introduce bias into the investigation, lead to misinformation, and harm your claim. By focusing on the facts, you’re protecting your interests. Avoid making statements that could be misinterpreted or used against you in the future.

Contact A Car Accident Attorney

If you suffered injuries due to the accident, you next must get a lawyer specializing in car accidents. An experienced injury attorney will represent you and help you seek justice for your damages. They can handle your claim and negotiate with other parties as you recover. More importantly, they will guide you on how to inform your insurance provider about the accident.

Tips For Driving Safely On California’s Roads

To stay safe while driving, drivers should follow these simple steps from the California government’s “Go Safely” campaign:

• Maintain a safe speed.
• Drive slowly at intersections.
• Prepare to stop and allow pedestrians to cross at crosswalks and unmarked corners.
• Drive with extra caution in bad weather, such as fog, rain, or darkness.
• Drivers should give cyclists plenty of space when passing them. California law requires drivers to change lanes if possible.
• When there isn’t enough space to pass a cyclist, be patient and wait until it’s safe.
• Never drive while impaired. Make sure you have a plan before drinking alcohol or engaging in activities that may impair your ability to drive. Research how certain drugs may affect you before taking them, including cannabis, prescription drugs, and over-the-counter medicines.
• Designate a sober driver, opt for rideshare service, or use public transit.
• When driving, set your phone to silent and avoid distractions. Put it on “Do Not Disturb” mode. On iPhones, you can set it to “Driving Mode.” When someone tries to contact you, it will send an automated message telling them that you are driving and will get back to them when it is safe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What City Has The Safest Drivers?

According to a 2023 study by LendingTree, Bakersfield has the safest drivers in California based on the number of insurance claims. There were only 5.58 incidents per 1,000 drivers. In another poll released the same year, Bakersfield ranked fifth, while Fresno got the top spot as the safest city.

However, the low incident rate is not only due to safe drivers. According to one community member, it can also be attributed to the wide streets and good city planning.

What Is The #1 Type Of Car Accident In California?

Rear-end collisions are the most common type of car accident in California. These accidents often occur when drivers follow too closely, are distracted, or fail to react in time to the vehicle in front of them. They are particularly common in areas with heavy traffic, where sudden stops and starts are frequent.

The severity of rear-end collisions can vary widely, ranging from minor fender benders that cause little more than cosmetic damage to the vehicles involved to serious crashes that result in significant bodily injuries, such as whiplash, spinal damage, or even fatalities.

What Is The Leading Cause Of Vehicular Accidents In California?

Speeding has been the leading cause of vehicle accidents in California for several years. It accounts for nearly one-third of all fatalities due to motor vehicle accidents. In 2022 alone, speeding contributed to 12,151 deaths, representing 29% of all traffic fatalities in the state. The dangers of speeding extend beyond the negligent driver, posing serious risks to other motorists, pedestrians, and even law enforcement officers.

Other common causes of car accidents are distracted driving, driving under the influence (DUI), and moving violations such as illegal turns and running red lights. If you’ve been in a collision due to any of these, contact our lawyers specializing in car accidents at (888) 488-1391.

Do I Need A Personal Injury Lawyer For A Car Accident Claim In California?

Technically, you don’t need a personal injury lawyer to file your claim in California. However, hiring a personal injury lawyer can help protect your rights. They can help you recover damages and losses, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Moreover, a lawyer for car accident cases can navigate the complicated legal process on your behalf. They will handle the paperwork, meet deadlines, and help you understand the implications of your case. With their help, you can focus on your recovery rather than being overwhelmed by the intricacies of the legal system.

What Can A Car Accident Lawyer Do For Me?

While we cannot undo the past or restore what has been lost, we can help you seek justice and compensation. Our attorneys will aggressively fight for your rights and hold all liable parties accountable. We aim to help you obtain maximum compensation to help you and your family get back on your feet.

If you were injured in a car accident or if you lost someone in one, our car accident lawyers can help. Contact us today by filling out our online form so we can schedule your consultation with one of our trusted accident lawyers.

Injured In A Car Accident? Consult With Our Industry-Recognized Lawyers

If you have been injured in a car accident, the best way to protect your legal rights and receive fair compensation for your losses is to consult a lawyer experienced in car accident cases. Arash Law can help you with your legal needs during this difficult time.

As one of the biggest personal injury law firms in California, we have helped thousands of victims get their lives back on track. You might be treated unfairly by insurance companies, but our top-notch car accident lawyers can ensure that you receive the maximum compensation.

We are not intimidated by these companies; our extensive knowledge and expertise in negotiation empower us to advocate effectively on your behalf. If the insurance company refuses to settle fairly, our car accident attorneys are fully prepared to take your case to court. Throughout the process, we provide the support and guidance you need, helping you make informed decisions every step of the way.

We provide comprehensive legal services throughout California, such as Santa Monica, Sherman Oaks, Richmond, Pasadena, Palm Springs, Oceanside, Newport Beach, and Modesto. Call (888) 488-1391 today to talk with our reliable lawyers.