Los Angeles is no stranger to traffic, and unfortunately, that means accidents happen daily. As of September 2024, over 7,700 crashes have been reported across the city. Let's take a closer look at the most common types of accidents and what they mean for drivers and pedestrians navigating LA's busy streets.
1. Rear-End Collisions – 3,056 Crashes
The most common type of crash in LA? Rear-end collisions. With over 3,000 incidents, these accidents usually happen due to distracted driving, tailgating, or sudden braking. If you're stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic, keeping a safe following distance.
2. Sideswipes – 1,481 Crashes
Lane changes can be tricky, especially on the 405 or the 101, where drivers weave in and out of traffic. Sideswipe collisions, where one vehicle scrapes or crashes into the side of another, are the second most common type of accident. Blind spots, aggressive lane changing, and failure to signal are major culprits here.
3. Broadside Crashes – 1,236 Crashes
Also known as T-bone collisions, broadside crashes happen when the front of one vehicle crashes into the side of another. These often occur at intersections when someone runs a red light or fails to yield. Given the high speed and impact angle, these accidents can lead to serious injuries.
4. Vehicle vs. Pedestrian – 781 Crashes
Walking around LA isn't always as safe as we'd hope. With nearly 800 pedestrian-involved crashes, it's clear that both drivers and walkers need to stay vigilant. Speeding, distracted driving, and jaywalking all play a role in these incidents. If you're driving, be extra cautious near crosswalks and busy intersections. If you're walking, make sure to stay aware of your surroundings, even if you have the right of way.
5. Hit Object – 769 Crashes
Sometimes, it's not another car but a fixed object that ends up in the crash report. Whether it's a light pole, guardrail, or tree, these accidents often occur due to speeding, loss of control, or driving under the influence. Even though they might not always involve multiple vehicles, they can still cause significant damage.
6. Head-On Collisions – 451 Crashes
Although less common, head-on collisions are among the most dangerous accidents. With 451 reported crashes as of September 2024, these incidents usually result from wrong-way driving, fatigue, or impairment. The force of impact in a head-on collision is often severe, making these some of the deadliest crashes on the road.
Legal Help
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Los Angeles, it is crucial to seek legal help immediately. Contact Goldberg Injury Lawyers today.
