For those injured in freeway accidents, obtaining compensation can be key to rebuilding. If you’re a victim of a freeway accident, a Los Angeles freeway accident lawyer from our team is ready to stand by you, working to pursue the best possible outcome.
At Omega Law Group Accident & Injury Attorneys, we’re here to support victims of car accidents across Southern California. With a strong record of success, our Los Angeles car accident lawyers have recovered millions of dollars for our clients, helping them move forward after traumatic events.
Driving in Los Angeles comes with its risks, given the heavy traffic and countless cars on the road. If you were injured on one of the city’s major freeways, reach out to us—we’re here to help.
Common Types of Accidents on Los Angeles Freeways
In Los Angeles, the high volume of vehicles on freeways can lead to a range of accident types, each with unique challenges. As a Los Angeles personal injury lawyer, we’ve worked with many victims of freeway accidents and understand the impact these collisions can have on their lives.
Here are some common types of accidents:
- Rear-end collisions: Often caused by sudden stops or distracted driving.
- Head-on collisions: Among the most severe, frequently leading to significant injuries.
- Left-turn collisions: Occur when drivers misjudge oncoming traffic during a turn.
- Side-swipe collisions: Common in heavy traffic, especially in narrow lanes.
- T-bone collisions: Often happen at intersections when one driver fails to yield.
- Merging collisions: Result from improper merging or failure to check blind spots.
- Failure-to-yield collisions: Occur when drivers ignore right-of-way rules.
These accidents involve a variety of vehicles, which can impact the severity and complexity of each case. Our attorneys are experienced in handling accidents involving:
- Passenger vehicles: Cars and hatchbacks are frequently involved in Los Angeles accidents.
- Rideshare vehicles: With the popularity of services like Uber and Lyft, these vehicles are often involved in freeway collisions, adding insurance and liability considerations.
- SUVs and minivans: Larger vehicles can increase the risk of serious injuries.
- Pick-up trucks and light utility trucks: Commonly seen on freeways and can cause significant damage.
- Motorcycles: More vulnerable in collisions, often resulting in severe injuries.
- Box trucks and large commercial trucks: Big rigs and 18-wheelers are often involved in high-impact collisions due to their size.
If you’ve been involved in an accident on a Los Angeles freeway, our team is here to help guide you through the next steps and pursue the support you deserve.
Los Angeles Freeway Accidents: The City’s Most Dangerous Highways
Planning to drive in Los Angeles? Staying informed about high-risk highways is essential as our city’s freeways face heavy traffic year-round. With more drivers commuting, attending events, and traveling for leisure, freeway congestion is constant, leading to a rise in motor vehicle accidents.
California is already ranked as one of the top states for accidents, penalties, DUIs, and speeding violations, making cautious driving essential.
As personal injury attorneys, we understand the impact of negligent drivers and reckless driving on LA’s roads. Below are some of the city’s most accident-prone highways, along with tips to stay safe:
Interstate 5 (I-5)
Interstate 5 (I-5) stretches through downtown Los Angeles and beyond, connecting to Mexico in the south and the Canadian border in the north. With heavy traffic and speeding, this highway is a hotspot for accidents, with one fatal crash per mile in some sections.
If you’re on I-5, stay alert, avoid extreme lanes unless necessary, and watch for aggressive drivers.
Route 118
Route 118 runs from Antelope Valley to Pasadena and faces challenges like deteriorating infrastructure and heavy traffic. Traffic jams, sudden congestion, and long exit stretches require extra caution.
If you’re on this route, stay calm during traffic slowdowns, keep a distance from unpredictable drivers, and be mindful in the carpool lane, as sudden stops are frequent.
The 405 Freeway
Running across the Valley to LAX and the coast, the 405 is notorious for congestion, lengthy traffic, and never-ending construction projects.
If you can’t avoid it, use the carpool lanes when possible, look for app-recommended detours, and remain calm despite the frequent stop-and-go traffic. Remember, accidents happen quickly, so it’s wise to drive defensively.
The 110 Harbor Freeway
Connecting northeast Los Angeles to Long Beach, the 110 Harbor Freeway is known for deadly accidents and a high traffic volume.
During rush hour, opt for alternate routes if possible, watch for one-way streets downtown, and be alert for cars parked due to breakdowns. The on-ramp to the 5 can be particularly hazardous, with sudden merges and road rage incidents.
Whether commuting or just passing through, stay vigilant on these Los Angeles freeways. Even the safest drivers can experience accidents. If you’re involved in a collision, our Los Angeles freeway accident attorneys are here to support you and protect your rights.
Common Causes of Freeway Accidents in Los Angeles
Freeway accidents often stem from various risky behaviors and conditions on the road. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), several factors frequently contribute to these collisions, making it essential for drivers to remain alert and cautious.
The most common causes include:
- Driver inattention and fatigue: This includes drowsy driving or falling asleep at the wheel.
- Drunk driving or influence of drugs: Driving under the influence can impair judgment, reaction times, and overall safety.
- Speeding and traffic violations: Ignoring speed limits and other rules of the road can lead to high-impact accidents.
- Poor vehicle maintenance: Mechanical failures from lack of maintenance may result in serious accidents.
- Aggressive driving: This includes tailgating and threatening behavior toward other drivers.
- Distracted driving: Common distracted driving actions include:
- Texting, calling, or interacting with a phone screen
- Rubbernecking or looking outside the car at events or scenes on the roadside
- Loud music or noise inside the car
- Manual activities like eating, retrieving items, or putting on makeup
If an accident occurs due to any of these factors, the responsible party may be liable for damages. Staying attentive on the road can reduce these risks and keep everyone safer.
Common Injuries From Car Accidents
In car accidents, even minor collisions can result in significant trauma to the body. The spine, brain, and other vulnerable areas are particularly susceptible to catastrophic injuries, which can lead to both physical and emotional harm.
We often see accident victims facing prolonged recovery periods and emotional distress due to the severity of their accident injuries.
Here are some of the most common injuries accident victims may experience:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI): Can lead to long-term cognitive and physical challenges.
- Spinal cord injuries: Often resulting in partial or complete paralysis, which may be a temporary or permanent injury.
- Whiplash and nerve damage: Conditions like radiculopathy that affect neck movement and nerve function.
- Internal injuries: Injuries such as damaged organs, which may go undetected initially.
- Fractures and dislocations: Including broken bones, torn ligaments, and joint derangement.
For accident victims, these injuries may also lead to significant mental anguish and ongoing emotional distress. Each injury brings its own set of challenges, and we are here to provide the support and legal guidance needed to pursue recovery and relief.
Types of Damages Available for Highway Accidents
When another driver’s actions lead to a car accident on a Los Angeles highway, the at-fault party may be responsible for covering the damages. Accident victims may be eligible to pursue fair compensation through an accident claim, addressing physical, financial, and emotional losses sustained in the crash.
Some types of recoverable damages include:
- Medical costs: Covering both immediate and future medical expenses related to injuries.
- Vehicle repair costs: Compensation for repair or replacement of the damaged vehicle.
- Pain and suffering: Recognizing the emotional toll and physical discomfort caused by the accident.
- Lost wages and earning power: Addressing income and wages lost due to injury and potential future earnings impacted by the accident.
In some cases, punitive damages may also be possible, especially if the at-fault driver’s behavior was particularly reckless. With an attorney focused on maximum compensation, you can work toward recovering these damages from the insurance company to help ease the financial burden of the accident.
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How Is Fault Determined in Los Angeles Freeway Accidents?
California follows a pure comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still file personal injury claims even if partially at fault. Your recovery, however, is reduced by your percentage of responsibility.
If you’re mostly at fault, you may still be eligible for some compensation. For instance, being 99% responsible still allows you to recover damages for the remaining 1%.
Remember, the other party’s insurance provider will likely try to reduce what you receive. Having a skilled Los Angeles freeway accident attorney on your side can help protect your rights and strengthen your claim.
Recovering After a Hit-and-Run Accident
A hit-and-run happens when the responsible driver leaves the scene, avoiding their duty to address damages. Since California’s fault-based insurance laws require an identified driver, your auto insurance may offer an alternative path to recovery.
After the incident, call the police—they may find the driver, allowing you to pursue a standard claim. If not, notify your insurer right away. Uninsured motorist coverage or comprehensive insurance may help cover your losses.
Consulting experienced car accident attorneys can further support your case. We offer legal representation to explore other liable parties, such as an employer of the driver or even the city, for unsafe road conditions, maximizing your options for recovery.
When Multiple Drivers Share Fault in a Freeway Accident
In California, the pure comparative negligence rule applies when multiple drivers are at fault for an accident. This rule assigns each party a percentage of fault, representing their level of responsibility for the damages.
Each driver’s assigned fault percentage determines how much of the total damages they’re expected to cover. For instance, if you’re found partially responsible, your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
If you’re the plaintiff and have some degree of fault, your total award will be reduced by that percentage. This approach allows all parties to be fairly accountable for their part in the accident.
What to Do if an At-Fault Driver Lacks Auto Insurance
Although state law requires drivers to carry minimum auto insurance, California has one of the highest rates of uninsured drivers. If the driver who caused your accident is uninsured, you have options for seeking compensation.
If you have uninsured motorist coverage, you can file a claim with your own insurance to help cover damages. This option provides a direct path to financial recovery without pursuing the other driver.
Without uninsured motorist coverage, you may need to file a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver directly. Our freeway accident lawyers in Los Angeles can guide you through the steps to help you seek fair recovery in these challenging situations.
Key Steps to Take After a Highway Accident
Being involved in a highway accident can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Many of our clients share that they wish they had known the right steps to take immediately after the incident.
Here’s a simple checklist to guide you through what to do at the accident scene to help support your case.
- Pull over at the scene: Always stop after an accident; never leave without checking on the situation.
- Check for injuries: Assess yourself and others involved for any injuries that may require medical care.
- Report the accident: Call 911 to inform the police of the crash and any injuries right away.
- Exchange information: Share contact and insurance details with the other driver(s).
- Avoid admitting fault: Do not admit blame to the other driver or police.
- Record vehicle details: Note the description, VIN, and license plate numbers of the other car.
- Seek medical care: Visit a doctor promptly for evaluation and treatment of any injuries.
- Report to your insurer: Notify your car insurance company about the accident as soon as possible.
- Inform the DMV: Report the crash to the DMV within 10 days if injuries occurred or damage exceeds $750.
- Contact a car accident lawyer: Speak with an attorney before accepting any insurance settlement offers.
Most importantly, seek medical care if you’ve been injured, even if symptoms seem mild. Prompt medical attention can help document injuries for your claim, and your attorney can later obtain these records to support your case.
Los Angeles Crash Statistics
Los Angeles County is one of the most heavily trafficked areas in the U.S., and this is reflected in its crash ranking results. With a population of nearly 10 million and daily vehicle miles traveled (DVMT) of over 190 million, it ranks high in many accident categories.
Key Crash Categories:
- Total fatal and injury crashes: 59,603, ranking 10th out of 58 counties.
- Alcohol-involved crashes: 6,866 incidents, placing Los Angeles at 48th out of 58 for alcohol-related accidents.
- Under-21 drinking drivers: 434 crashes, ranking 49th in the state.
- Drivers aged 21–34 who had been drinking: 3,590 incidents, with a 50th ranking.
Vulnerable Road Users:
- Motorcycle accidents: 2,812 incidents, placing Los Angeles at 27th out of 58.
- Pedestrian accidents: 4,079 incidents, ranking Los Angeles 2nd in the state.
- Bicycle accidents: 1,877 incidents, ranking 14th.
These statistics underscore the need for heightened awareness and safety measures on Los Angeles roadways, especially for vulnerable pedestrians and cyclists.
Key Responsibilities of Our Los Angeles Freeway Accident Lawyers
As your auto accident attorneys, our law firm is committed to guiding you through each step of the legal process to help secure financial compensation. Here’s how we handle your case:
- Thorough investigation: Collecting key evidence, including police reports, witness statements, photos, and any available surveillance footage to understand what happened.
- Consultation with medical professionals: Working closely with your doctors to document your injuries and assess any future medical needs.
- Determining liability: Examining the accident’s details to identify the party responsible for your injuries.
Our approach involves:
- Engaging with insurance companies: Handling communication and negotiating for a fair settlement on your behalf.
- Strategic case-building: Using medical records, expert witness statements, and accident reconstructions to strengthen your case.
- Filing a personal injury lawsuit: If necessary, taking your case to court to pursue the compensation you’re entitled to.
Throughout, we calculate damages that include medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property repairs, working tirelessly to achieve the best possible case results for you.
The Cost of Hiring an Attorney on a Contingency Fee Basis
If you’re worried about the expense of legal representation after a Los Angeles freeway accident, there’s good news. Our firm works on a contingency fee basis, which means you won’t have to pay anything upfront to pursue a claim against the at-fault party.
On a contingency fee basis, our attorneys start working right away without requiring upfront payments or hourly fees. Instead, we’re paid a percentage of the amount recovered from the responsible party or their insurer, so you can pursue your claim without financial risk.
When we reach a settlement, our payment is deducted from the settlement proceeds, with the remaining amount going directly to you. And if we don’t recover funds, you owe us nothing.
Understanding California’s Statute of Limitations
If you’re considering legal action after an accident, California’s statute of limitations typically allows two years from the incident date to file. For cases involving government entities, this limit is often reduced to six months.
These deadlines apply to car accidents, premises liability, and wrongful death claims, so filing within this timeframe is key.
Our firm is here to answer your questions and help clarify these time limits, so you can focus on healing while we handle the details. Don’t hesitate to reach out to understand your options and the steps ahead.
How Long Does it Take to Settle a Car Accident Claim in Los Angeles?
The time it takes to settle a car accident claim in Los Angeles depends on factors like the compensation amount and the circumstances of the accident. If the other driver’s fault is clear, they may prefer a quick settlement to avoid lengthy litigation.
Settlement negotiations tend to move faster when liability is clear, as defendants often prefer to resolve cases without entering lengthy litigation. This approach can help speed up your recovery process.
Your Los Angeles freeway accident lawyer will discuss the specifics of your case and provide a realistic estimate for the expected timeline, helping you understand what to expect.
I’m Undocumented—Can You Still Take My Case?
Absolutely. In California, your immigration status cannot be used against you in a personal injury case. If someone else’s negligence caused your injuries, your right to pursue justice remains unchanged, no matter your residency status.
Our attorneys actively protect your privacy, objecting to any questions aimed at revealing your immigration information. Your safety and privacy are our top priorities.
While English is the primary language in the courtroom, it’s common for non-English speakers to have licensed interpreters available. We’ll work to make sure you feel comfortable and supported throughout the entire process.
What if I Was on the Job During My Car Accident?
If you were on the job during your car accident, you may have options to seek compensation. This could include filing a workers’ compensation claim and a civil lawsuit against any at-fault third parties not affiliated with your employer.
Our firm is here to support you on both fronts. We not only have skilled auto accident attorneys but also a dedicated workers’ compensation team with a strong track record in handling a range of workers’ comp cases.
We’ll work closely with you to explore all available avenues, seeking to secure the recovery you deserve while you focus on healing.
Turn to Trusted Los Angeles Freeway Accident Attorneys
We know how terrifying an accident can be on the busy freeways of Los Angeles, leaving you with pain, stress, and unanswered questions. At Omega Law Group, our Los Angeles freeway accident lawyers understand what you’re going through and are here to support you through every step.
With decades of experience between us, we’re well-prepared to handle the unique challenges these cases bring, from establishing fault to dealing with insurance companies. Our focus is on lightening your load so you can concentrate on your recovery.
If you’re ready to discuss your options, reach out to Omega Law Group. We’re here to help you pursue the fair compensation you need to move forward.
