California Auto Accident Statistics

California is a beautiful state with a population that continues to multiply. As the numbers rise, the amount of both commercial and recreational vehicles on California roads and highways continues to increase. Additionally, interstate travel has grown, increasing the amount of auto accidents. Unfortunately, research has shown that California has the most fatalities out of any state.

Auto Accident Fatalities

In 2004, there were a total of 3,727 fatal car accidents. The classes of vehicles involved in these deaths include cars, light trucks, large trucks, buses, and motorcycles. Cars such as station wagons, sport cars, and sedans led in fatalities with more than 1,730 deaths. Right behind car accidents, were accidents involving light trucks such as Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) and minivans with 1,048 deaths. Motorcycles accounted for 432 deaths while large trucks such as big rigs, 18-wheelers, and tractor-trailers accounted for 50.

Damages in Auto Accident Cases

Beyond the fatality statistics, there are countless numbers of people that have suffered serious injuries. Fortunately, California has laws that protect individuals that are the victim of a negligent driver. Most individuals filing lawsuits against others for car accident negligence are entitled to recover damages for injuries. The plaintiff must prove that the defendants (the driver who caused the accident), was negligent. This can be established by violating the California Vehicle Code ("CVC"), or just because the defendant's conduct that caused the accident had fallen below the standard of care.

Examples of negligence include driving too fast, failing to pay attention, failure to yield the right of way, vehicle defect, intentional and reckless acts, failure to maintain or turn on headlights, etc.

California requires that a person injured in an auto accident file a claim for personal injuries within two years of the date that the injury took place. If you are suffering, you are not alone. Don't delay in seeking help.

Consult a Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been killed or injured in a car accident, you should contact an experienced attorney to find out whether you are eligible for compensation.