The Most Dangerous Roads in California

Californians own more registered automobiles than residents in any other state, and because of this the state's freeways and streets can get busy. This in turn increases the chances of accidents, especially on the most dangerous roads in California. It's important to know where these roads are, and what to do if you are in an accident.

The 10 Most Dangerous Roads in California

According to Moneygeek, the following stretches of road in California see the most deadly accidents:

• I-15 between Exit 138 and Exit 129
• I-80 from Exit 14A to Exit 8A
• I-80 between Exit 15 and Exit 21
• I-5 from Del Paso Road to Railyards Boulevard
• I-215 between Exit 44B and Exit 39
• SR-74 from Melba Avenue to 3rd Street
• I-605 from Exit 5B to Firestone Boulevard
• I-280 between Meridian and McLaughlin Avenues
• Bear Valley Road from Navajo Road to Tamarski Road
• SR-22 between Exit 10 and Exit 5

Key Findings about the Most Dangerous Roads in California

Along with identifying the most dangerous stretches of road in California, Moneygeek's analysis revealed the following:

• Although the San Francisco metro area has less than half the population of the Los Angeles metro area, it sees a greater number of deadly accidents each year. The second and third-most dangerous stretches of road in California are in this area.
• Drunk driving plays a role in about 27% of fatal auto accidents in California.
• About 28% of accidents on California's roads involve speeding.
• November is the month with the most fatal accidents in California. The MoneyGeek team concluded that this may be due to Thanksgiving travel.
• Los Angeles County is the county with the most deadly accidents.
• Distracted driving plays a role in just 4% of accidents in California, which is lower than the rate for distracted incidents in most other states.

What to Do if You're Involved in a California Car Accident

We hope you never get in an accident, but if you do, here's what to do.

Check for Injuries

Attend to any injuries that need immediate care. If you have any passengers, help them check for injuries as well.

Find a Safe Spot Away from Traffic

Next, move to safety. Don't drive your car, however, unless you're sure you can do so without risk.

Make Sure the Others Are Okay

While emotions can run high after a collision, don't give in to an impulse to confront the other driver. Instead, check to see that that person and all others involved in the accident are okay and don't need medical attention.

Be aware that an at-fault party might attempt to flee the scene. If they do, note any details that could help police identify them, such as the vehicle color and make and model. If you can, write down, memorize or even photograph their license plate.

Call 911

California law requires you to call 911 immediately to report an accident. When you do, the 911 operator will dispatch an officer to the scene to investigate.

According to the California Department of Motor Vehicles, you must also:

• Move your vehicle off the street if you can safely do so and if no one has been injured or lost their life.
• If you struck a parked car or someone's property, try to identify the owner.

Cooperate as the police investigate the accident. Be honest but don't mistakenly imply that you caused the accident.

Exchange Insurance Information

This step is critical. California is an at-fault car accident state. To seek compensation for things such as medical bills and lost wages after a car accident, you can file a claim with the insurance of the party who caused it. To do this, you need to exchange contact and insurance information with everyone involved in the collision.

Gather Evidence

While you wait for the police, take pictures of the accident scene and all vehicles and property involved in the accident from multiple angles. Make sure you photograph any signs of injury as well.

Also, get the names and contact information of witnesses. Ask if they would be willing to give written or recorded statements right there at the scene. If not, a California auto accident attorney may help you get statements from them later.

See a Doctor

Once the police allow you to leave, see a doctor immediately. You may be injured and not realize it. It's imperative that a medical professional evaluate your condition and provide any needed treatment. Seeing a doctor on the day of your accident can also strengthen your case if you decide to file an insurance claim or lawsuit.

Contact a California Auto Accident Lawyer

After taking the above steps, consider meeting with a California auto accident lawyer to review your case. An attorney handling motor vehicle accident cases in California can fill you in on your legal options. They may also provide representation to help you negotiate for a proper settlement with the insurance company. Get started by scheduling a free consultation today.