The most common causes and consequences of car accidents in Los Angeles

Traffic laws exist to keep us all safe, and—without them—getting from one place to another would be chaotic (and some would argue that L.A. traffic is chaotic, anyhow). Unfortunately, as every driver knows, traffic laws are regularly violated, putting everyone on the road at risk. Some of the common traffic violations that have the potential to lead to serious accidents include:

• Speeding
• Following too closely
• Improper turns
• Failing to stop at stop signs or red lights
• Driving the wrong side of the road
• Unsafe lane changes
• Passing in no-passing zones

Distracted driving is a serious problem throughout the United States, resulting in thousands of accidents every year. While smartphones and other electronic devices are certainly a major part of the problem, there is a far more diverse array of distractions that can result in severe, injury-causing accidents. Some of the more common distractions affecting drivers in the Los Angeles area include:

• Eating
• Drinking
• Adjusting the radio
• Texting
• Talking on the phone
• Personal grooming
• Talking to passengers
• Daydreaming

Importantly, California has a distracted driving law in place that prohibits drivers from using electronic communication devices while holding them in their hands. If you suspect the driver who hit you was using his or her phone manually at the time of the crash, it’s important that you mention that fact to the police officers who respond to the scene.

Drunk and drugged driving is against the law, and it’s dangers are well-known. Unfortunately, it continues to occur on a regular basis, often injuring innocent victims in the process. In fact, according to the California Office of Traffic Safety, there were 6,164 DUI arrests in Los Angeles in 2016 alone, and these arrests likely account for a small fraction of the actual number of drunk drivers on the road. Fortunately, with the assistance of a personal injury attorney, victims of drunk or drugged drivers are typically able to recover compensation for their accident-related losses.

Poor road design and road defects are another common cause of serious accidents in the Los Angeles area. Some examples of these issues include:

• Blind curves
• Faded lane markings
• Inadequate signage
• Overgrown vegetation
• Potholes
• Malfunctioning traffic lights

Importantly, if your accident was the result of poor road design or a road defect, your claim may be against the government. If this is the case, you have a very limited amount of time in which to file a claim. As a result, if you suspect that road conditions played a role in your crash in any way, you should contact an experienced attorney immediately.

Los Angeles, known for its bustling traffic and high incidence of car accidents, can benefit from adopting a range of preventative measures to enhance road safety. Implementing advanced traffic management systems can help in reducing congestion and smoothing traffic flow, thereby decreasing the potential for accidents. Awareness campaigns focused on the dangers of distracted driving, drunk driving, and speeding are crucial. These should target all age groups, emphasizing responsible driving behaviors.

Another effective measure could include enhancing road infrastructure, such as improving lighting, adding more visible signage, and redesigning high-risk intersections. Regular road maintenance to fix potholes and clear overgrown vegetation can also significantly reduce accident risks. Moreover, promoting alternative transportation options such as public transit, biking, and walking could lessen the number of vehicles on the road, leading to a safer driving environment.

The impact of car accidents extends far beyond the immediate aftermath. Physically, victims may suffer from chronic pain, reduced mobility, and long-lasting disabilities that can alter their quality of life. Psychologically, the trauma of experiencing a severe car accident can lead to conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.

Economically, the consequences are equally severe. Victims often face substantial medical bills and may lose income due to reduced working capacity or prolonged periods of unemployment. Socially, they might withdraw from community involvement and personal relationships, exacerbating feelings of isolation and helplessness.

In light of these long-term effects, it is crucial for car accident victims to seek comprehensive medical evaluation and appropriate legal representation to secure compensation that not only covers immediate costs but also provides for future needs, including ongoing medical care, rehabilitation, and support services.