Los Angeles Car Accident Statistics
Though most drivers try to remain safe on the roads, car accidents still occur. Collisions are fairly common, especially in areas like Los Angeles where driving is the main method of transportation. Car accidents are one of the leading causes of death in the United States.
If you are a driver, it is important to understand the risk you assume when you get behind the wheel of your vehicle. When you conceptualize how accidents occur, it can be easier to avoid them as you drive. Being on the lookout for dangerous situations is one of the most effective ways to prevent accidents from occurring.
Car Accident Fatalities
In 2022, 312 people died in car accidents in Los Angeles alone. This number represents a 5% increase from 2021 and a 30% increase from 2020. This statistic does not include the pedestrians and bicyclists who perished in collisions on Los Angeles roads and paths. Car accident fatalities seem to be on the rise, which is both concerning and discouraging.
Top Causes of Los Angeles Car Accidents
Though no two car accidents are exactly the same, there are some common causes of car accidents that show a trend in driving habits in Los Angeles. One of the smartest ways to prevent car accidents is by avoiding dangerous behaviors that have been shown to lead to accidents.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is by far the most common cause of collisions both in Los Angeles and around the country, but it is also a very broad category of offenses. Distracted driving may include:
- Texting, talking, or otherwise using one’s phone
- Eating or drinking
- Watching something or someone on the side of the road
- Applying makeup
- Turning to engage with children or passengers in the car
This is not an exhaustive list of distracted driving practices. No matter the situation, it is essential for drivers to focus only on the road until they reach their destination. Distracted driving is extremely dangerous and can easily lead to collisions.
Reckless Driving
Unfortunately, some drivers navigate the roadways with a blatant disregard for the safety of others. These instances often involve people who disobey traffic signs, swerve in and out of traffic, and engage in road rage. It is important to remain calm and patient when driving, even when Los Angeles traffic becomes congested or slow.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
When a driver operates a vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08% or higher or is under the influence of any amount of drugs, they are driving under the influence (DUI). These offenses are highly dangerous to others, as people who are under the influence have slower reaction times, poor decision-making skills, and diminished hand-eye coordination. This makes it easy for accidents and injuries to occur.
Speeding
Speed limits are carefully planned to account for roadways, pedestrian traffic, cross streets, turns or curves in the road, and other factors. When drivers operate their vehicles above the speed limit, they endanger themselves and others. Speeding puts cars at a higher risk of an accident, and it is a leading cause of accidents in Los Angeles.
FAQs
Q: How Many Car Accidents Are There Per Year in Los Angeles?
A: The number of car accidents in Los Angeles varies from year to year. A 2022 report stated that there were 40,669 car accidents in Los Angeles in 2021. Approximately 164 collisions occur every day in the area. In 2022, 312 people died in car accidents, which was an increase from the two years prior. It can be difficult to pinpoint exactly how many accidents occur because some go unreported.
Q: How Many Traffic Deaths in Los Angeles in 2022?
A: In 2022, there were 312 car accident fatalities in Los Angeles alone. However, this number does not account for bicycle and pedestrian deaths, even if a car was involved — a statistic that increases the number by approximately 190 people. In 2022, there was the highest number of traffic fatalities in Los Angeles in over two decades. The percentage of deaths was up 5% from the previous year and 30% from 2020.
Q: How Many Crashes Are in LA a day?
A: There are approximately 164 accidents in Los Angeles daily. As many people in Los Angeles drive rather than walk or take public transportation, this statistic is much higher than in many other areas. Over 90% of the accidents that happen in Los Angeles are because of driver error. Few accidents occur because of weather, acts of nature, or vehicle malfunction.
Q: Can I Sue for a Car Accident in Los Angeles?
Yes. If you get into a car accident that occurred because another driver was being negligent, you may be able to file a personal injury claim against them. This claim can help you to pay for your medical bills, damages, and other expenses associated with the collision. To win your case, you must prove that the other driver’s negligence directly led to your injury. Contact an attorney from Shaffer Law to help you build your claim.
Q: How Much Does a Car Accident Attorney Cost?
A: Every attorney charges differently, so speak about finances with each car accident attorney you interview. The average cost is 30%-40% of your ultimate settlement. However, some attorneys charge hourly or have additional payment policies. To be sure you can afford representation, have an open conversation about finances with your attorney before you begin to build your claim.
Shaffer Law: Your Los Angeles Car Accident Attorneys
For many years, our team has been helping Los Angeles drivers recover from car collisions. In some situations, personal injury claims are appropriate. In other scenarios, we help drivers to navigate insurance adjusters and other challenges of a car accident aftermath.
Our experience makes us a great choice for your car accident case. No matter the circumstances, our car accident attorneys are confident that we can represent you and your family in your accident claim.
For more information, get in touch with Shaffer Law today.
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