California is home to some of the most scenic routes and highways in the country. However, the state’s extensive highway system has also been the site of many fatal accidents.
According to ConsumerAffair’s analysis of the data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS), there’s a 17% increase in car crash fatalities in 2022 compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2018. This is despite a decline in the state’s population.
Some roads and highways are more dangerous than others
According to the study, the highways in California with the highest fatality rates are:
- Interstate 15 in San Bernardino County
- Interstate 10 in Riverside County
- Interstate 5 in San Diego County
- Interstate 5 in Orange County
- US-101 in Santa Barbara County
- Interstate 880 in Alameda County
- State Route 4 in Contra Costa County
- Interstate 10 in Los Angeles County
- State Route 178 and State Route 99 (tie) in Kern County
- US-101 in Santa Clara County
Speeding is one of the biggest contributors to fatal car crashes on highways. Driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol is another major factor, with many of the accidents involving a driver with a positive blood alcohol test.
What can you do if your loved one passes away in a fatal car accident?
If your loved one passed away in a fatal car accident due to another driver’s negligence, and you’re planning to take legal action, there are several steps you can consider taking:
- Contact authorities: Ensure that the police has documented the accident. Make sure to also obtain a copy of the accident report. This can be crucial for insurance and legal purposes.
- Consult an attorney: They can guide you through the legal process and help determine if you have grounds for a wrongful death claim. In California, surviving family members have the right to file such claims to seek compensation for their loss.
- Gather evidence: Collect any available evidence related to the accident, such as photos, witness statements and medical records. This can be vital for legal proceedings.
Filing a wrongful death claim can be difficult and overwhelming, especially when you are still processing the grief. Seeking professional legal advice can help make the process easier, allowing you to look after your own well-being during this challenging time.