California Car Accident Lawyers

California Car Accident Statistics

The California Office of Traffic Safety tracks car accidents statewide to improve road safety and reduce fatalities. In 2021, traffic fatalities increased by 7.6%, rising from 3,980 deaths in 2020 to 4,285. The state’s Mileage Death Rate (MDR) was 1.38 fatalities per 100 million miles traveled.

Alcohol-impaired driving contributed significantly to these fatalities, with a 16% rise from 1,180 deaths in 2020 to 1,370 in 2021. Drug-impaired driving also remained an issue, as 52.9% of drivers killed in crashes tested positive for legal or illegal drugs, though this represented a slight decrease from 2020.

Unrestrained passenger fatalities increased by 12.4%, from 782 in 2020 to 878 in 2021. Motorcycle fatalities also rose by 3%, with 565 deaths reported in 2021, and helmetless motorcyclist fatalities jumped by 9%, from 34 in 2020 to 37.

Teen drivers were involved in more fatal crashes, with incidents rising by 14.8%, from 413 in 2020 to 474 in 2021. Pedestrian fatalities saw a 9.4% increase, with 1,108 deaths, while bicycle fatalities decreased by 8%, from 136 in 2020 to 125 in 2021.

California County Car Accidents Statistics

Car accidents occur across California’s counties, reflecting varying levels of roadway risks and challenges.

According to California Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), California averaged 19,066 crashes per year, with totals slightly decreasing from 19,593 in 2021 to 18,053 in 2023.

• Los Angeles County had the most crashes, averaging 4,572 per year.
• San Bernardino County and Riverside County followed, averaging 1,324 and 1,210 crashes annually.
• Orange County averaged 982 crashes per year, with 1,037 crashes in 2022, its highest over the period.

In smaller counties:

• Modoc County consistently recorded 12 crashes annually.
• Sierra County averaged 9 crashes each year.

Other counties with notable trends include:

• Imperial County, where crashes dropped from 126 in 2021 to 80 in 2023.
• San Francisco County, with crashes falling from 318 in 2022 to 264 in 2023.

These numbers show the difference in crash rates between urban areas like Los Angeles and less populated regions such as Modoc or Sierra. Efforts to improve road safety continue across the state to lower accident rates. For more detailed data, visit the TIMS website.

Most Common Causes of Car Accidents in California

Car accidents in California often result from driver errors, poor decisions, or external factors. Here are the most frequent causes:

• Distracted driving – Using phones, eating, or focusing on anything other than driving can lead to crashes in seconds.
• Speeding – Driving above the limit or too fast for conditions like bad weather or heavy traffic increases crash risk.
• Driving under the influence – Alcohol or drug impairment slows reaction time and impairs judgment, leading to severe accidents.
• Reckless driving – Behaviors like tailgating, weaving through traffic, or ignoring right-of-way rules can easily result in collisions.
• Failure to yield – Not yielding at intersections or to pedestrians and cyclists is a common cause of crashes.
• Weather-related issues – Rain, fog, or slippery roads can make driving more dangerous if drivers fail to adjust their speed or actions.
• Third-party factors – Defective car parts, poorly maintained roads, or unclear signage may shift liability to manufacturers or local agencies.

Common Types of Car Accidents Our California Attorneys Handle

Our California car accident lawyers have extensive experience handling a wide range of vehicle crash cases. From minor collisions to severe accidents, we work tirelessly to uncover every detail and fight for the compensation victims deserve.

Here are some of the most common types of car accidents we handle, along with brief explanations:

Fatal Car Accidents

These tragic accidents result in the loss of life and often involve significant legal complexities. Our team is skilled in helping families seek justice and compensation.

Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end crashes typically happen in heavy traffic or when a driver is distracted. These are among the most common types of accidents and can cause neck and back injuries, even at low speeds.

T-Bone or Side-Impact Collisions

T-bone accidents happen when a car’s front hits the side of another vehicle. These crashes are especially hazardous due to the limited side protection in most vehicles.

Head-On Collisions

Head-on crashes are extremely dangerous and often result in fatalities or life-altering injuries. They frequently occur on rural roads or highways with limited barriers.

Speeding Accidents

Speeding is a leading cause of crashes in California. These accidents often result in severe injuries due to the high impact of vehicles traveling over the speed limit.

Weather-Related Accidents

Rain, fog, and slippery roads are common causes of weather-related crashes. These conditions require extra caution, and failure to adjust driving behavior can lead to accidents.

Accidents Involving Elderly Drivers

Age-related factors like slower reaction times or impaired vision can contribute to accidents involving older drivers. We handle these cases with care and professionalism.

Hit-and-Run Accidents

Hit-and-runs leave victims with physical, emotional, and financial burdens. Our lawyers work to identify the at-fault driver and pursue compensation through all available avenues.

Rideshare Accidents

Collisions involving Uber, Lyft, or other rideshare services bring unique challenges, including determining liability. We help victims navigate these complex claims.

Driverless or Autonomous Vehicle Accidents

With the rise of self-driving cars, accidents involving autonomous vehicles are increasing. These cases often involve unique legal and technological questions about liability.

Intersection Accidents

Intersections are common sites for collisions, often caused by drivers running red lights or failing to yield. These accidents can involve side impacts or rear-end collisions.

If you or someone you know has been involved in any of these types of accidents, our car accident attorneys in California are here to help you secure the compensation you deserve.

What to Do After a Car Accident in California

What you do after a car accident can make a big difference in protecting your rights and getting fair compensation. Following the right steps helps strengthen your claim and ensures you recover the money needed for damages. Here are six essential steps to take after a car accident in California:

1. Move to a safe location. If possible, get to a safe spot away from traffic and turn on your hazard lights to alert others.
2. Call 911 immediately. Emergency services will secure the scene and create an official accident report. If needed, an ambulance will be dispatched. When speaking to officers:
   • Stick to the facts and avoid guessing or speculating.
   • Do not admit fault, even if you think you may be partially responsible.
   • If unsure about injuries, mention that you’re uncertain.
3. Document the scene. Take photos of:
   • Vehicle damage, license plates, and insurance information.
   • Visible injuries, such as cuts or bruises.
   • The crash scene, including skid marks, debris, and traffic signs.
4. Gather evidence and witness details. Collect contact information from witnesses and check for nearby security cameras or dashcam footage.
5. See a doctor promptly. Even if you feel fine, a medical evaluation is critical to detect hidden injuries and connect them to the accident.
6. Contact our California car accident attorneys. Navigating a claim alone can be overwhelming and may lead to a lower settlement. An experienced attorney can handle the process and help you secure the compensation you deserve.

Common Car Accident Injuries in California

Car accidents in California range from minor fender benders to severe crashes, often leading to injuries that require prompt or long-term medical care. If you or someone you care about has been involved in an accident, it’s important to identify common injury symptoms.

Here are some of the most common injuries caused by car accidents in California:

• Whiplash
• Head injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Neck injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Burn injuries
• Soft tissue injuries
• Paralysis
• Fractures bones
• Internal injuries, such as organ damage
• Lacerations, abrasions, and cuts
• Nerve damage
• Concussions
• Amputation
• Wrongful death

Even if you feel fine after a car accident, seeking medical attention is essential. Injuries like internal damage or concussions may not show symptoms right away and can take days or weeks to surface. A medical check-up can help detect hidden problems and ensure you receive the care needed for a full recovery.

High-Risk Roads in California

California’s roads see a high number of accidents every year, and certain routes are more dangerous due to heavy traffic, poor design, or high speeds.

Here are some of the most accident-prone roads in the state:

Interstate 5 (I-5)

California’s most dangerous highway, I-5, sees nearly 100 fatal crashes each year. Spanning 800 miles within the state, risk factors include heavy congestion, teenage drivers, and late-night weekend traffic.

Interstate 8 (I-8)

Stretching over 170 miles, I-8 in San Diego County records over 100 fatalities annually, with some years seeing as many as 145 deaths. Factors like high traffic and distracted driving make it particularly risky.

State Route 2 (SR-2)

One of the busiest roads in Los Angeles County, SR-2’s traffic flow creates dangerous conditions. Despite its shorter length, 50 out of 52 accidents on this highway resulted in fatalities within a single year.

State Route 78 (SR-78)

This 215-mile road in San Diego County averages 75 deaths per year, making it a significant risk for drivers in the area.

State Route 99 (SR-99)

This road consistently ranks as one of California’s most hazardous. Modesto experiences the most accidents along this route, with drunk driving contributing to 1 in 5 crashes.

US Highway 101

Known for its high crash rate, this heavily traveled road sees roughly two accidents per mile each year.

How to Prove Negligence in a California Car Accident Case

To hold someone accountable for a car accident, you must prove negligence. In California, drivers are legally required to follow traffic laws and act responsibly to ensure the safety of others, including passengers, pedestrians, and fellow drivers. If a driver fails to meet this duty, they can be held liable for damages caused by their actions.

Proving negligence requires four main elements:

1. Duty of Care – The at-fault party must have had a legal obligation to act responsibly and safely on the road.
2. Breach of Duty – Show that this duty was violated, such as by speeding, texting while driving, or ignoring traffic signs.
3. Causation – Demonstrate that the breach directly caused the accident and your resulting injuries.
4. Damages – Provide evidence of harm, such as medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering, caused by the accident.

To establish these elements, evidence like police reports, witness statements, accident scene photos, and medical records is crucial. In cases where multiple parties share fault, California’s pure comparative negligence law applies. This law assigns a percentage of fault to each party, and your compensation is adjusted based on your share of responsibility. For example, if you are 20% at fault in a $10,000 claim, you could recover $8,000.

If you’re unsure how negligence laws affect your case, reach out to our experienced car accident lawyers of California. We’ll guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Time Limits for Filing Car Accident Claims in California

California law gives car accident victims a limited time to file a lawsuit for damages. The statute of limitations for personal injury cases is two years from the date of the accident. This applies to claims seeking compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle repairs.

Exceptions to this rule include cases involving minors, where the clock is paused until the victim turns 18. Failing to file within the deadline can prevent you from recovering damages, regardless of fault.

What Compensation Can I Receive for a Car Accident in California?

California law allows car accident victims to seek compensation for damages caused by another driver’s negligence. These damages fall into two categories: economic damages (special damages) and non-economic damages (general damages).

Economic Damages

Economic damages cover specific financial losses from the accident. These include:

• Medical bills (doctor visits, therapy, surgeries, medications, and more)
• Lost wages or income
• Vehicle repair or replacement costs
• Damage to other personal property
• Replacement services (e.g., home cleaning or childcare)

Economic damages are easier to calculate since they involve documented expenses like bills and invoices. Our California car accident lawyers will review your financial records to determine the full amount you’re owed.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages compensate for intangible losses that don’t have a clear monetary value, such as:

• Pain and suffering (physical, mental, and emotional)
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Disability, disfigurement, or impairment
• Loss of companionship in wrongful death cases

While harder to quantify, non-economic damages can be substantial. Insurers may base their calculations on jury verdicts in similar cases. Our legal team will work to ensure you receive fair compensation for these losses.

Punitive Damages

In cases of extreme recklessness, like drunk driving, victims may also be awarded punitive damages to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior.

Although no compensation can truly restore your health or replace a loved one, filing a claim can help cover financial losses and provide a sense of justice.

No Fees Until We Win Your Case

At Thompson Law, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if they win your case. This structure allows accident victims to access legal help without upfront costs. Here’s how it works:

• No Win, No Fee – If your lawyer doesn’t secure a settlement or verdict, you don’t owe any legal fees.
• Percentage of Settlement – If your lawyer wins, their fee is typically a percentage of the compensation you receive.
• No Hidden Costs – Many lawyers cover upfront expenses, like filing fees and investigation costs, and deduct them from the settlement once the case is resolved.

This system ensures that lawyers are motivated to achieve the best possible outcome for their clients. To learn more about legal fees and how we can help, contact our California car accident lawyers for a FREE CONSULTATION today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accident Laws in LA

What should I do if the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance?

If the at-fault driver is uninsured, you may still recover damages through your own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage or other applicable insurance policies. Our lawyers can help you explore all available options.

Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Yes, California follows a pure comparative negligence rule, which means you can recover compensation even if you were partially at fault. Your settlement will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Can you sue a minor for a car accident in California?

Minors under 18 typically cannot be sued directly for car accidents, but their parents or guardians may be held responsible in certain cases. Here’s how liability may apply:

• Parental Responsibility – Parents can be held accountable if their actions or neglect, such as allowing an unlicensed minor to drive, contribute to the accident.
• Minor’s Negligence – Teen drivers are expected to follow the same road rules as adults. Their age and experience may be considered when assessing fault.
• Willful Misconduct – If a minor intentionally causes harm, such as using a car recklessly or as a weapon, their guardians may be liable for the damages.

Our California car accident lawyers can investigate the incident, analyze the driver’s behavior, and determine whether a minor or their parents are responsible for the damages. Contact us for a consultation to discuss your options.

How long does it take to settle a car accident case in California?

The timeline depends on factors like the complexity of the case, the severity of injuries, and negotiations with insurers. While some cases resolve in months, others may take longer if litigation is necessary.

Can I claim compensation for emotional distress after a car accident?

Yes, emotional distress is part of non-economic damages you may be eligible to claim. This can include anxiety, PTSD, or reduced quality of life caused by the accident.