The last thing anyone would want to happen to themselves or their loved ones is a car accident. Statistics show California sees the second most fatal car accidents in the country.

It has a population of over 39 million people, and more than 250,000 car accidents take place every year.

A Closer Look at California Statistics

The most recent statistics show that in 2022, California saw 19,500 accidents that involved serious injury or death. There has been a steady increase in traffic fatalities in California over the previous 4 years. In 2022 there was a total of 4,488 traffic fatalities in the state and 70% occurred in urban areas. In LA County 575 deaths were Latino-Hispanic victims.

Major causes of accidents in California

Every year, California tops the list regarding the number of accidents reported. Several causes lead to these accidents, most due to driver error.

Impaired Driving

Most of the drivers under the influence of alcohol or drug substances are unable to judge the distance and speed of other vehicles. When driving under the influence, you may put other road users at risk because you may mindlessly overtake other vehicles, and at some point, you may even accidentally drive off the road. Drugs impair judgment, so it is important to avoid them if you are planning on driving.

Negligence and Reckless Driving

Carelessness negatively affects other road users who might be following the traffic rules.

Changing lanes randomly can lead to collisions when you fail to signal or check for other vehicles in the blind spots. This is dangerous for both parties because cars are not well-equipped to absorb that much force when a collision occurs.

The number of accidents in California has escalated over the previous few years. Deaths increased by almost 7.6% from 2020 to 2021, from at least 3,980 to 4,285 fatalities.

In 2018, at least 1,089 people lost their lives due to alcohol impairment. Forty-two percent (42%) of drivers who lost their lives tested positive for drugs, both legal and illegal.

In 2022, it is estimated that approximately 140 to 160 accidents happen daily, and nearly 1,000 to 1500 accidents occur weekly in Los Angeles.

How to prevent road accidents

Avoid Drugs and Alcohol

Anything that affects the normal functioning of your brain, which can render you unable to read signs and hazards, should be avoided.

Avoid Distractions

Several distractions can occur while you are driving. The most common one is using your cell phone for activities such as texting or checking the calendar, changing radio stations, and eating while driving. Safe driving only happens when you are not focusing on any other activity.

Avoid Speeding

According to NHTSA, accidents that occurred at high speeds could have been avoided if the driver was driving at low speeds.

California sticks to a fault rule where the driver who gave rise to the accident is held liable for any damage or injury. The deceased’s family members can also file cases against the driver if need be.

Always check your vehicle to ensure everything is in optimum working conditions before departing. Be sure to wear seatbelts and avoid drugs and alcohol before getting behind the wheel.