Home to approximately 3.8 million residents, Los Angeles has over 83% of its population using roads, whether by public transport, driving or carpooling, according to the US Census Bureau's American Community Survey. The report further states that although 5% walk or bike, they still use roads and intersections.
With those numbers, it is unsurprising that road users contribute to accident statistics. Data collected from 2024 state that there are approximately 110 accidents daily in this County, some producing serious injuries or fatalities.
In addition to accidents, this city also records a high number of pedestrian and motorcycle fatalities. In 2024, Los Angeles recorded 1,363 pedestrian accidents and 405 bicycle accidents. That equates to approximately four pedestrian accidents per day and just over one bicycle accident daily on city streets.
According to research data from the California office of Road Safety, LA County records the highest number of car accidents in California. Unsurprising, since LA County is densely populated with a complex number of freeways, crisscrossing over one another at intersections.
However, this city is not alone, the following states, San Diego County, Orange County and San Bernardino County record in excess of ten thousand accidents per year.
The following table from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) provides an overview of rankings and traffic collision data (2018-2022):
| Year | Collision Type | Injury and fatality count | OTS Ranking |
| 2018 | Injury and fatal | 36,345 | 1/15 |
| 2019 | Injury and fatal | 35,549 | 1/15 |
| 2020 | Injury and fatal | 26,132 | 5/15 |
| 2021 | Injury and fatal | 11,202 | 13/15 |
| 2022 | Injury and fatal | 8,944 | 14/15 |
With its complex freeway system, high traffic volume and sprawling urban layout it's high accident rate is understandable.
Any person involved in an accident on these roadways should immediately consult with a legal professional who will provide more information on LA's traffic and how to work around its legal landscape.
Below is a list of the dangerous interstates, highways, local roads and intersections in the city recovered from recent data and traffic safety analyses.
Traffic officials cite the following major roadways in accident reports because of high speeds, heavy congestion and complex interchanges. These freeways are commonly known for multiple vehicle collisions, aggressive driving incidents and severe traffic delays during peak hours.
Several urban streets are as dangerous as busy freeways because of pedestrian traffic, busy intersections and reckless driving.
Certain intersections stand out for the excessive number of collisions, due to poor visibility, high-speed approaches or signal timing issues. Traffic officials and legal professionals often list these as the most dangerous intersections.
Several factors contribute to the high accident rate. LA, as the United States' most populous county, has many traffic challenges, ranging from ageing and poor infrastructure to driver error or reckless driving.
However, the main cause is driver behavior. 2024 Road traffic statistics show the following:
No matter an auto driver's driving skills, the chances of being involved in an accident is high. It is important to understand the procedure if a person is involved in an accident.
A person's priority is safety first. If possible, the driver should move themselves to a place of safety and check for injuries. Once complete, and if necessary, call 9-1-1 for medical assistance to treat immediate injuries. Despite no visible injuries, driver needs to report to the closest clinic for a head to toe medical assessment to rule out internal injuries or whiplash.
Before visiting the clinic, the auto vehicle drivers must exchange information such as names, contact details, license plate numbers, driver’s license numbers and insurance information. If necessary, take scene photographs, vehicle damage and if injuries occurred.
Request a copy of the accident report or note the report number from on scene traffic officials. And contact the insurance company handling the vehicle insurance immediately.
When it is time to file a claim for any injuries or damage to the vehicle or property, drivers should contact an experienced attorney.
This city ranks as the most traffic accident-prone city in California and remains one of the most dangerous urban areas for drivers, pedestrians and cyclists. In 2024, accidents claimed 538 lives in 502 accidents, averaging approximately one and a half fatal accidents per day.
Not only are accidents detrimental to the driver and those involved in the accident, but they also incur substantial human and economic costs.
It takes more than driver safety to improve LA's accident rates. Drivers can ensure their vehicles are in good working order, refrain from reckless and irresponsible driving habits and obey traffic rules. LA residents can reduce traffic congestion and potential accidents by taking advantage of the city's extensive public transportation system.
For assistance with legal recovery after an accident, contact experienced attorneys who specialize in California’s auto accident laws.