Founder and Managing Partner
The hustle and bustle of Los Angeles, California, is undeniably electrifying, but it also presents unique challenges when it comes to road safety. As personal injury attorneys based in the heart of Los Angeles, J&Y Law has had a front-row seat to the consequences of car accidents that occur all too frequently. We’ll delve deeper into the most common triggers of car accidents in Los Angeles, supported by statistics where applicable, and offer crucial advice on how you can protect yourself on the road. Remember, accidents can strike anyone, anywhere, but understanding the risks is the first step to prevention.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving, particularly cellphone use, ranks among the leading causes of car accidents nationwide. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2019 alone, distracted driving claimed the lives of 3,142 people in the United States.
Distracted driving takes various forms, including:
- Texting
- Talking on the phone
- Engaging with in-car entertainment systems
- Eating
- Applying makeup
- Adjusting the GPS
These distractions divert your attention away from the road, significantly increasing the risk of accidents. To stay safe and reduce these alarming statistics, we strongly advocate for using hands-free devices, avoiding texting or calling while driving, and, most importantly, keeping your attention on the road. If you or a loved one has been a victim of distracted driving, don’t hesitate to contact our personal injury attorneys today for expert guidance.
Tire Blowouts
Tire blowouts are a persistent trigger for accidents, affecting not only the safety of the vehicle’s occupants but also those on the road. Statistics show that tire-related issues contribute to nearly 11,000 accidents each year in the United States.
These sudden blowouts can be caused by poor maintenance, underinflated tires, or road hazards. When a tire fails, it can lead to a loss of control, resulting in collisions and injuries. To mitigate this risk, make regular tire maintenance a priority. Check the tire pressure, inspect for any signs of wear and tear, and replace worn-out tires promptly. If you’ve been involved in an accident due to a tire blowout, our personal injury attorneys are here to assist you in pursuing justice.
Aggressive Driving
The daily commute in Los Angeles can be a test of patience, and many drivers succumb to aggressive driving behaviors. Tailgating, weaving through traffic, and road rage incidents are all too common on LA’s congested roads.
These aggressive actions not only increase the risk of accidents but also make the road a more dangerous place for everyone. According to the NHTSA, aggressive driving behaviors are a factor in more than half of all fatal crashes.
As personal injury attorneys, we advise drivers to remain calm, patient, and courteous while navigating LA’s bustling streets. Avoid engaging with aggressive drivers, report dangerous behavior when necessary, and help contribute to safer road conditions.
Inclement Weather
Despite its reputation for sunny weather, Los Angeles does experience adverse weather conditions. Sudden rain showers, fog, and intense sunlight can create hazardous driving conditions. In fact, according to the Federal Highway Administration, weather-related accidents account for nearly 22% of all crashes in the United States.
Rain can make roads slippery, reduce visibility, and increase the likelihood of hydroplaning. Fog can obscure your vision, while bright sunlight can create blinding glare. To stay safe, adapt your driving to the prevailing weather conditions. Adjust your driving speed and maintain a safe following distance during inclement weather. Use your headlights when visibility is reduced, and always have a pair of sunglasses handy to combat glare. Our personal injury attorneys are here to support you if you’ve been involved in an accident caused by weather-related conditions.
Running Red Lights
Running red lights is a reckless and dangerous behavior that frequently leads to car accidents. It’s particularly prevalent at busy intersections throughout Los Angeles. When a driver ignores a red light, they put themselves and others in grave danger. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), red-light running was responsible for 846 fatalities in 2019 in the United States.
If you have the right of way at a green light, always proceed with caution and be prepared for other drivers who may not obey traffic signals. If you’ve been a victim of a red light runner, contact our personal injury attorneys today to explore your legal options.
Impaired Driving
Despite strict laws and public awareness campaigns, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs remains a significant cause of car accidents in Los Angeles. In fact, alcohol-impaired driving accounted for 28% of all traffic-related deaths in California in 2019, according to the NHTSA.
Impaired drivers have impaired judgment, reduced reaction times, and impaired motor skills, making them a hazard to themselves and others. As personal injury attorneys, we strongly advocate for responsible and sober driving. Always designate a sober driver or use rideshare services when you’ve been drinking or using substances. If you’ve been involved in an accident with an impaired driver, reach out to our personal injury attorneys to pursue justice and hold the responsible party accountable.
Fatigue
Fatigue is often underestimated as a trigger for car accidents, yet it’s a significant contributor to road crashes. The NHTSA reports that drowsy driving was responsible for an estimated 697 deaths in 2019.
In our fast-paced society, many individuals push their limits, driving long hours without adequate rest. Fatigue can lead to drowsiness, impaired concentration, and even falling asleep at the wheel. To prevent accidents caused by fatigue, prioritize getting enough sleep before embarking on long journeys. Take regular breaks during road trips, and if you find yourself feeling tired while driving, pull over to a safe location and rest. Remember, it’s better to arrive late than never.
J&Y Car Accident Lawyers
Navigating the roads of Los Angeles can be a thrilling adventure, but it comes with its fair share of risks. Distracted driving, tire blowouts, unwanted hitchhikers, aggressive driving, adverse weather, running red lights, impaired driving, and fatigue are some of the most frequent triggers of car accidents in the city. By staying informed about these risks and adopting safe driving practices, you can reduce your chances of being involved in a car accident.
At J&Y Law, we are committed to helping accident victims seek justice and fair compensation. If you’ve been injured in a car accident due to the negligence of another driver, contact our personal injury attorneys today. We have extensive experience representing clients in Los Angeles and throughout California, and we are ready to fight for your rights.
Your safety is our priority, so remember to drive responsibly and stay vigilant on the road. Safe driving not only protects you but also contributes to the safety of everyone sharing the streets of Los Angeles. Contact our personal injury attorneys today if you need assistance in seeking justice after a car accident.