3 Surprising Facts About Car Accidents in Los Angeles
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Last Updated: June 2025
With hundreds of miles of roads and freeways, Los Angeles County’s streets serve millions of motorists every year. Given the vast number of drivers in this bustling city, traffic accidents are common, and the consequences can be deadly.
There are numerous factors that contribute to the high rate of car accidents in Los Angeles, including population density, aging infrastructure, and negligent driver behavior. While laws and regulations exist to keep motorists and pedestrians safe, sadly, crashes often happen when you least expect them.
Why LA Car Accidents Are Different
Los Angeles stands out as one of the most car-dependent cities in the United States, and with that comes a unique set of challenges for drivers. The city’s dense population, sprawling road networks, and constant congestion mean that car accidents are a daily reality for many Angelenos. Unlike other cities, Los Angeles drivers must navigate a maze of freeways, surface streets, and intersections, all while contending with a wide variety of driving styles and habits. For car accident victims, this environment can make the aftermath of a car accident especially complicated. Understanding the nuances of California car accident laws is crucial, as is working with an experienced car accident lawyer who knows how to handle the complexities of a Los Angeles car accident. Whether you’re dealing with mounting medical expenses, lost wages, or the stress of the legal process, a skilled car accident attorney can help you pursue fair compensation and guide you every step of the way.
1. More Cars = More Accidents
Every city has different factors that come into play when determining car crash statistics. For Los Angeles, this high volume of traffic leads to frequent vehicle collisions, which can range from minor fender benders to serious accidents requiring legal assistance.
In 2021, there were roughly 7,692,852 registered vehicles in Los Angeles County. These vehicles include:
- 6,386,830 passenger cars
- 1,150,957 trucks
- 155,065 motorcycles
According to the numbers, Los Angeles residents enjoy an 87.9% rate of vehicle ownership, making it one of the most car-centric cities in the United States. It’s no surprise that fatal and non-fatal car crashes abound across the city and county.
2. Crash Injuries in Los Angeles Are a Leading Issue
According to the Los Angeles Police Department’s annual accident reports, there were at least 294 car crash deaths in 2021 — a 22% increase from 2020. Additionally, according to the Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT), traffic collisions are the number one cause of death for children in Los Angeles.
Data compiled by the California Office of Traffic Safety reported the following numbers for Los Angeles County car accidents in 2019:
- 88,814 injuries and fatalities combined
- 5,931 pedestrian injuries caused by vehicles
- 17,609 crashes resulting from speeding
- 8,086 hit-and-run crashes
- 7,271 crashes linked to driving under the influence (DUI)
Of California’s 58 counties, Los Angeles boasts some of the highest figures for car crashes in the state. Car accident injuries in Los Angeles can range from common injuries such as whiplash, bruises, and fractures to catastrophic injuries like traumatic brain injuries or spinal cord damage. These common injuries may not always be immediately apparent, and some catastrophic injuries can occur even in minor collisions, often leading to long-term consequences and significant legal claims.
3. The Same Behaviors Cause Most LA Car Crashes
Although car crashes can happen at any moment, for any number of reasons, some unique contributing factors are involved in the most common car crashes in Los Angeles.
Whether you commute daily or only use your vehicle for weekend getaways, it’s essential to understand the behaviors and actions that could increase the odds of a car accident. When a negligent driver hits another vehicle due to careless or reckless actions, victims may face serious consequences and should consider their legal options.
Drunk Driving
Nearly 30% of all vehicle crash fatalities in California involve DUI or DWI.
DUI is a serious legal offense that puts lives at risk of injury and death. It’s no surprise that this negligent practice results in hundreds of fatalities in Los Angeles and across California every year.
Driving drunk inhibits a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle and may lead to the following:
- Loss of judgment
- Poor hand-eye coordination
- Reduced reaction times
- Blurred vision
The odds of a catastrophic injury increase whenever a drunk driver gets behind the wheel. Drunk driving accidents can also result in permanent injuries, which may severely impact a victim’s ability to work or live normally.
Speeding and Moving Violations
Los Angeles police enforce strict speed limits to keep motorists safe. Depending on the environment, speed limits fluctuate to correspond with congestion and traffic flow.
In 2020, speeding contributed to 29% of all traffic collisions. Whenever drivers fail to follow speed limits, they can lose control of a vehicle, run a red light, hit pedestrians, and cause other traffic catastrophes.
Even a minor car accident caused by speeding can result in injuries or legal complications, so it is important not to underestimate the potential consequences.
Distracted Driving
According to the CDC, distracted driving is one of the leading risks of car crashes in the United States. In 2019, over 3,100 people were killed and 424,000 injured due to distracted driving.
Any road is dangerous, and operating a vehicle poses a risk at all times. Whenever a motorist takes their hands off the wheel or eyes off the road, inattention can result in serious injuries. Distracted driving accidents can result in situations where the other driver may be held liable for negligence.
California Car Accident Laws Every Driver Should Know
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident in California requires a solid understanding of the state’s car accident laws. One of the most important rules is comparative fault, which means that car accident victims can still recover compensation even if they are partially at fault for the accident. However, the amount of compensation may be reduced based on the victim’s share of responsibility. Another critical aspect is the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim—car accident victims generally have a limited window of time to take legal action after an accident. Consulting with an experienced car accident attorney is essential to ensure that your rights are protected and that you don’t miss important deadlines. Additionally, seeking medical attention immediately after a car accident is vital, not only for your health but also to document your injuries and support your personal injury claim. By understanding these key elements of California car accident laws, victims can better position themselves to recover fair compensation for their injuries and damages.
Determining Liability: The Hidden Complexities in LA Accidents
Establishing who is at fault in a Los Angeles car accident is rarely straightforward. The circumstances surrounding each accident can be complicated, often involving multiple vehicles, conflicting witness statements, and extensive medical records. An experienced car accident lawyer will thoroughly investigate the accident scene, gather crucial evidence, and analyze police reports to determine liability. In many cases, more than one party may share responsibility, making it even more important to have a knowledgeable car accident attorney on your side. Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts or shift blame, so having car accident lawyers who understand their tactics is essential for negotiating a fair settlement. By carefully examining all available evidence and advocating for your best interests, a skilled legal team can help ensure that you receive the fair compensation you deserve.
Staying Safe and Informed on LA Roads
Driving in Los Angeles comes with its own set of risks, but being informed and prepared can make all the difference. Always obey traffic laws, stay alert for reckless driving, and watch out for pedestrians and cyclists. If you are involved in a car accident, your first priority should be to seek medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. Afterward, consult with an experienced car accident lawyer who can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights. Understanding California car accident laws and working with a skilled car accident attorney can help car accident victims in Los Angeles recover fair compensation for their injuries and damages. Don’t hesitate to reach out for a free consultation to discuss your options and ensure you have the support you need to move forward after a car accident.