California regularly sees tens of thousands of traffic injuries and fatalities each year. While car accidents can happen anywhere, some California roads are much more dangerous than others. Keep reading below to learn more about which roads and highways in California are the most dangerous and what to do if you get into a car crash.
Interstate 5
I-5 has historically been classified as one of California’s deadliest highways, and the number of fatalities on this highway has risen recently. The San Diego County position of this road is especially dangerous.
Excessive speed is a major problem, exacerbated by the high volume of traffic on the highway. Plus, many tourists in the area are unfamiliar with the location, which adds to the danger on the interstate here.
State Route 99
State Route 99 doesn’t see the large volume of crashes that some other highways do, but this road typically sees more fatalities per mile than any other highway in California.
Some data suggest that this is the most dangerous road in the state. One of the most dangerous stretches is through the Central Valley due to the combination of high speed and multiple entry and exit points.
Interstate 15
Interstate 15 is dangerous for several reasons. This highway features long stretches of open road, making it very tempting to drive at high speeds. Additionally, a high volume of commercial traffic and overall congestion make truck accidents common on this roadway, and truck accidents tend to involve more severe injuries than standard car accidents.
Pacific Coast Highway (PCH)
The Pacific Coast Highway is known for having some of the most scenic views of any highway in the country. This segment of California State Route 1 takes drivers along the Pacific Ocean in Western California, but those beautiful views can also distract drivers. Combine those distractions with the narrow, curvy road, and you have a very dangerous situation.
El Cajon Boulevard
Unlike most of the others on this list, El Cajon Blvd presents unique challenges that make it quite dangerous. Even though it is not an interstate or a highway, this main thoroughfare has a mix of heavy traffic, multiple lanes, and frequent crosswalks and bus stops. That complexity makes it a dangerous road for anyone driving on it regularly.
What to Do if You Are Hurt in a Car Accident
If you find yourself hurt in an accident on one of these dangerous roadways, knowing what to do can help you stay calm and protect your legal rights.
If you are involved in an accident, you should:
- Call the police so that they can respond and create an accident report.
- Get immediate medical treatment for your injuries.
- Take photos of the accident scene, all the vehicles, and your injuries.
- Obtain names and phone numbers from all witnesses.
- Keep all bills and receipts related to your accident.
- Do not talk to the insurance company without getting help from a lawyer.
- Consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer who can help with your claim.
An attorney can help you avoid common personal injury case mistakes and provide guidance on your next steps.
Contact the California Car Accident Lawyers at Mercado Kramer, LLP to Schedule a Free Consultation
With tens of thousands of accidents occurring in California each year, you could easily find yourself involved in a crash, especially on one of these dangerous roads. If you are hurt in an accident, our team can handle every aspect of your legal claim while you focus on your recovery.
For more information, please contact our experienced California personal injury attorneys at Mercado Kramer, LLP, for a free consultation. We have offices in Salinas and San Jose, CA, and we serve throughout Monterey County.
Mercado Kramer, LLP.
450 Lincoln Ave Ste. 102, Salinas, CA 93901
(888) 311 4050
