Jon Stojan
Image credit: Pexels
California traffic is globally infamous. Not only is Southern California a crossroads for several major U.S. highways, but California’s population density in the Los Angeles metropolitan area is beyond compare. These factors can create dangerous conditions, the effects of which are just now being understood. Despite California’s decreasing population over the past several years, in 2022, Consumer Affairs reported that California’s rate of fatal car accidents increased by over 17% compared to 2018. Read on to find out which roadways made the list as the deadliest in the state and how you can avoid danger altogether.
- US-101 in Santa Barbara County
Arguably one of the most beautiful counties in the state of California, Santa Barbara County is also home to one of the deadliest roads. In 2022, the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that the US-101 through Santa Barbara County was the site of 15 fatalities – four of which were from speeding, and two from drinking. “The American Riviera” may have some further work to do to ensure drivers stay safe on the highways through the region.
- Interstate 5 in Orange County
Orange County is home to some famous California destinations, including Crystal Cove State Park, surfing beaches in Huntington Beach, Knott’s Berry Farm, and Disneyland Resort. Unfortunately, OC is also the location of the fourth deadliest highway in California – I-5. The I-5 through Orange County saw 16 fatalities – eight from speeding, and two from drinking – in 2022 alone.
- Interstate 5 in San Diego County
I-5 isn’t done yet. It spans the entire length of California and, once it reaches San Diego County, the danger increases. San Diego County is the second most populated county in California, leading to a significant increase in car accidents. Beyond that, San Diego County is also the southernmost county of California, butting up against the border to Mexico. San Diego’s famous surfing scene and the traffic going into and out of Mexico may be to blame for 2022’s 21 fatalities.
- Interstate 10 in Riverside County
As California’s go-to desert escape, Riverside County is home to Palm Springs and Joshua Tree National Park. Interstate 10 runs through the huge county as it weaves across the state from the Arizona border to the ocean. This stretch of the 10 has proven quite deadly with 31 fatalities in 2022 alone – 12 of which were from speeding. This area of the 10 runs over miles of open desert, enticing many drivers to speed far beyond acceptable limits.
- Interstate 15 in San Bernardino County
The deadliest road in California is Interstate 15 running through San Bernardino County. S.B. County, as it’s known, is popular for its outdoor recreation from hiking to snowboarding. Like the 10 through Riverside County, I-15 in San Bernardino County is a pass-through county for many travelers on their way to coastal cities. For this reason, speeding is a major concern. I-15 saw 48 fatalities in 2022, with 22 of them being from speeding alone.
How to Avoid Car Accidents in California
Car accidents are caused by numerous factors, including distracted driving, speeding, and driving under the influence. However, drivers can stay safe by incorporating a few habits into their drives.
- Place phones out of arm’s reach where they won’t be a distraction. Make sure all air conditioning and music settings are fixed before you start driving to reduce distractions.
- Slow down. Stay within the speed limit and slow yourself at intersections to account for red light runners, pedestrians, or bikers.
- Look twice and use your signals. Motorcyclists and bikers are harder to see. Scan the road to ensure you aren’t caught by surprise. Use your turn signals to make sure others know what to expect from you.
If you are in a car accident in California, make sure you get yourself and others to safety away from traffic, seek medical help, and report the accident to the authorities. A car accident lawyer also known as abogado de accidentes de auto Los Angeles can help you collect evidence and argue your case if you choose to bring a lawsuit against the other party for negligence. If you’re ever unsure if you have a case, California car accident lawyers like those at Abogados Fuertes can provide a free consultation and inform you of your legal options.