How Many Fatal Car Accidents Are There in Los Angeles, California?
Los Angeles, California, sees more than 300 fatal car accidents every year. These crashes involve not just vehicle occupants but also pedestrians, motorcyclists, and cyclists, particularly along corridors like I-405, US-101, and Sunset Boulevard. In such a densely populated and traffic-heavy city, understanding how these tragedies occur and what legal steps to take after is critical for surviving families in Los Angeles County.
ts in Los Angeles
How Many Fatal Car Accidents Happen in LA Annually?
According to recent reports, Los Angeles records over 300 fatal traffic accidents per year, often exceeding the city’s homicide rate. These include collisions involving pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcycles, and typically occur along high-risk areas like the I-405, US-101, and Sunset Boulevard.
These incidents frequently lead to wrongful death lawsuits, where plaintiffs must prove negligence such as speeding, distracted driving, or DUI. In these cases, a Los Angeles personal injury attorney can help establish fault and recover damages such as:
- Funeral and burial costs
- Loss of financial support
- Emotional suffering and trauma
Common Causes of Fatal Car Accidents in Los Angeles
Fatalities on LA roads are often due to:
- Speeding and reckless driving
- Distracted driving (e.g., texting or GPS use)
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Failure to yield at intersections
- Pedestrian-related accidents in dense neighborhoods like Downtown LA and Hollywood
These factors are commonly used in legal arguments for negligence claims, particularly in wrongful death cases.
Prevention Strategies and Safety Measures
Los Angeles has launched initiatives like Vision Zero, which aims to eliminate traffic deaths. These include:
- Installing protected bike lanes
- Upgrading traffic signals
- Increasing DUI checkpoints
Still, enforcement alone can’t prevent every accident. Drivers are encouraged to:
- Avoid speeding or phone use
- Use designated crosswalks
- Never drive impaired
- Wear seatbelts at all times
From a legal perspective, awareness of these safety initiatives may impact comparative fault arguments in personal injury lawsuits.
Legal Implications and Seeking Compensation
In California, fatal car accident cases are governed by wrongful death and survival action laws. Eligible parties, usually a spouse, child, or dependent, may file for:
- Medical bills and emergency treatment costs
- Loss of income (current and future)
- Loss of companionship or guidance
- Pain and suffering
Under the California Code of Civil Procedure Section 335.1, you generally have two years to file a wrongful death claim.
Because insurance coverage in fatal accidents often exceeds basic policy limits, victims may also need to rely on uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage or pursue third-party liability claims.
Why Families in Los Angeles Choose GoSuits After a Fatal Car Accident
Losing a loved one in a fatal car accident is devastating. At GoSuits, we understand the emotional and financial challenges families face after a tragedy like this. Our legal team is here to support you with clarity, compassion, and action.
We help families in Los Angeles file wrongful death claims, gather critical evidence, and pursue compensation for funeral costs, lost income, and emotional suffering. We work with local investigators, understand California’s legal timelines, and fight for the justice your family deserves.
There are no upfront fees, and you don’t pay unless we win your case.
If you lost someone in a fatal crash, contact GoSuits today for a free consultation. Let us help you take the next step toward justice.
FAQs
How many fatal car accidents occur in California per year?
California averages approximately 3,700 fatal crashes annually, with over 300 deaths in Los Angeles alone, according to LADOT and LAPD reports. The leading causes include speeding, drunk driving, and pedestrian-involved incidents.
Data referenced in this article reflects public reports from LADOT, LAPD, and the California Office of Traffic Safety.
What city in the U.S. has the most car accidents?
Los Angeles consistently ranks among the highest in the nation for total car crashes due to its large population and high traffic density. However, cities like Memphis or St. Louis may have higher fatality rates per capita.
What Causes Most Fatal Car Accidents in Los Angeles?
The most common causes of fatal crashes in Los Angeles include:
- Distracted driving (e.g., texting or GPS use)
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Speeding and reckless driving
These behaviors often serve as the basis for negligence claims in wrongful death lawsuits.
What should I do if my loved one dies in a Los Angeles car accident?
Take the following steps immediately:
- Document the scene with photos and gather medical records
- Request a copy of the official police report
- Contact a wrongful death lawyer in Los Angeles to protect your legal rights
- Avoid speaking to insurance companies without representation
- File a claim within 2 years under California’s statute of limitations (CCP §335.1)
Can I still sue if my family member was partially at fault?
Yes. California follows a pure comparative negligence rule, which allows surviving family members to recover compensation even if the victim was partially at fault. The compensation will be reduced based on the percentage of fault assigned.
