Where Do Most Car Accidents Happen?
The number of police-reported traffic crashes decreased from 6.1 million in 2021 to 5.93 million in 2022. Despite the decrease, 2.38 million people still suffered injuries in motor vehicle collisions. Therefore, many people end up suffering injuries in a car accident at some point in their lives. But where do most car accidents happen?
Generally, urban areas see more collisions and fatalities than rural areas. Many parts of California are full of urbanization. These areas see a higher percentage of car accidents, in part due to the high concentration of residents. If you suffer injuries in a California car accident, contact Starpoint Law to discuss your case with a lawyer.
Where Do Most Car Accidents Happen?
A car accident can happen almost anywhere, especially in urban areas that contain thousands of vehicles within a small space.
Parking Lots
Parking lots are full of vehicles, pedestrians, concrete barriers, and other hazards. Even though drivers typically go slow in parking lots, these characteristics can present significant risks if a driver is distracted.
Approximately one in every five car accidents occurs in a parking lot, resulting in more than 50,000 parking lot accidents annually. Parking lot accidents can happen when two vehicles try to back up at the same time or when one vehicle backs into a stationary object. If you suffer injuries in a parking lot accident, contact a car accident lawyer at Starpoint Law.
Interstates
California interstates see more traffic than almost anywhere else in the world. In fact, both Los Angeles and San Francisco rank in the top five of worst U.S. cities for commuters.
Los Angeles is number one with the average commuter spending approximately 119 hours in traffic annually. San Fransisco falls into second place with the average commuter spending approximately 103 hours in traffic annually.Â
When people get stuck in traffic, they inevitably start looking for ways to make the minutes pass by quicker. In many cases, this results in people using their cell phone in traffic.
Talking on the phone, texting, or using social media are all examples of distracted driving. Nearly two-thirds of all distracted driving fatal accidents in California happen in urban areas.
Intersections
Like parking lots and interstates, intersections present unique challenges for drivers. MoneyGeek collected information on 13,851 intersection traffic accidents that resulted in injury or death between 2020 and 2022.
The five most dangerous intersections in Los Angeles sit in the area south of downtown from Interstate 10 to approximately Interstate 105. The most dangerous intersection, S. Vermont Avenue and W. Florence Avenue, reported nineteen eligible collisions over the two years. The following four intersections each reported eighteen eligible collisions:
- W. Manchester Avenue and S. Vermont Avenue,
- W. Manchester Avenue and S. Normandie Avenue,
- Victory Boulevard and Lindley Avenue, and
- E. Manchester Avenue and Avalon Boulevard.
In 2022, Axios reported that in San Francisco, the intersection of 5th Street and Market recorded the highest overall number of injury collisions, recording 146 since 2005.
Does Where a Car Accident Happens Affect Who Is Liable?
Typically, the location of a car accident does not affect liability. No matter where the accident happens, the plaintiff, or the injured party filing the lawsuit, must prove that the other driver’s negligence caused the accident. To prove negligence, the plaintiff must show the following:
- The other driver had a duty to operate their vehicle in a reasonably prudent manner. That means the other driver must act as a reasonable driver would in the same or similar circumstances.
- The other driver breached their duty by failing to operate their vehicle as a reasonable driver would. For example, ignoring traffic lights or posted signs can prove that a driver breached their duty of care.
- Their breach caused the car accident, which resulted in you suffering harm or damages.
In California, the plaintiff can recover compensation from the negligent party as long as they are not more than 50% responsible for the collision. However, the court will reduce the reward by the plaintiff’s percentage of responsibility.
Ready to speak to one of our injury attorneys?
We offer free and confidential consultations 24/7 and are ready to answer your questions.
Contact Starpoint Law Today to Talk to a Car Accident Attorney
If you have a car accident in California, contact an attorney at Starpoint Law right away. Unlike other law firms, Starpoint Law is highly selective with the car accident claims we choose to take on, only accepting those we know we can win. We take the time to meet with our clients and hear their side of the story. Our team will keep you informed every step of the way as your case goes through the process.
We will not hesitate to take your case to trial if the opposing party refuses to give you a fair settlement offer. Contact our team at Starpoint Law to schedule an appointment with one of our attorneys.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have several questions after suffering injuries in a car accident. Our team provided answers to some frequently asked questions below. If we do not answer your question, contact our office to talk to one of our attorneys.
How Can a Lawyer Help Me in a Car Accident?
Some people decide they do not want to hire an attorney after a car accident. An experienced car accident attorney can help your case by:
- Finding witnesses to testify about the accident;
- Requesting a copy of the accident report;
- Locating any surveillance footage of the accident;
- Estimating the cost of your losses; and
- Preparing your case to go to trial, if necessary.
An experienced lawyer can also negotiate with the at-fault driver insurance company to ensure your settlement fully compensates you for your losses.
An insurance representative may contact you right after the collision to offer you a settlement before you can determine the extent of your injuries. Our team will defend you against these predatory tactics and communicate with the insurance company for you.
What Kind of Injuries Happen in Car Accidents?
Car accidents can inflict bodily injuries on anyone inside the vehicle. Examples of car accident injuries include:
- Concussions,
- Traumatic brain injuries,
- Road rash,
- Whiplash,
- Back injuries,
- Broken bones,
- Internal bleeding,
- Spinal cord injuries, and
- Paralysis.
Many car accident injuries require immediate medical attention and subsequent treatment.
Where You Can Find Our Sherman Oaks Office
Starpoint Injury Law Staff
Starpoint Law was founded on a number of core principles that allow us to help our clients and develop deep and meaningful relationships. If you have suffered injuries or facing an issue with your employer, reach out to our legal team and we can sit down for a free consultation and start the process immediately.
Rate this Post
Loading...