Navigating the 405 Freeway: Top Accident Causes and Surprising Statistics

Stretching from Orange County (OC) to Sylmar, the 405 Freeway is one of the most heavily traveled roads in the United States. According to the Office of Highway Policy Information, it ranks as the fourth busiest location nationwide based on annual average daily traffic.

For many Southern California drivers, the thought of navigating the 405 sparks dread. Studies reveal that Angelenos spend countless hours stuck in gridlock, with the 405 being a notorious hotspot for congestion.

Why Is Traffic on the 405 Freeway So Heavy?

Several factors contribute to the 405’s heavy traffic, including:

• Travelers heading to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
• Southern California's growing population.
• Commuters working in areas like West Los Angeles or Santa Monica but living in the San Fernando Valley or Long Beach.
• Beachgoers visiting the West Side and South Bay.

With the sheer volume of vehicles, the 405 Freeway also experiences a high number of accidents.

405 Freeway Accident Data: Key Findings

In 2022, there were 1,098 total crashes on the 405 Freeway, according to data requiring login access. While fatal crashes accounted for just over 1 percent, injuries and vehicle damage were widespread.

Breakdown of Accident Types:

• Rear-end collisions: 57% (the most common accident type).
• Sideswipes: 17%.

Top Causes of Accidents:

• Speeding: Responsible for 55.24% of all crashes.
• Improper turning: 18.51%.
• Unsafe lane changes: 8.75%.
• Driving under the influence (DUI): 7.38%.

In total, 22 different accident causes were reported.

Reducing Accident Rates

Addressing these factors requires a multifaceted approach, including public education, stricter law enforcement, and infrastructure improvements. By tackling these issues, the frequency and severity of car accidents in Los Angeles can be significantly reduced.

When Are Accidents Most Common on the 405?

Contrary to popular belief, mornings and evening rush hours aren’t the only times accidents peak. The study shows that the busiest times for crashes include:

• Saturday, 12 PM–3 PM.

• Monday and Friday, 3 PM–6 PM.

• Friday, 6 PM–9 PM.

• Friday, 12 PM–3 PM.

• Tuesday and Thursday, 3 PM–6 PM.

Injured on the 405 Freeway? You May Be Entitled to Compensation

If you’ve been hurt in a car accident on the 405 Freeway, you could be eligible to recover compensation for your injuries. At Tulekyan Law, our experienced Los Angeles car accident attorneys have successfully helped clients secure millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts.

How Tulekyan Law Can Help You

We’re committed to guiding you through the legal process, starting with a free consultation to evaluate your case. If we determine you have a valid claim, we’ll build a strong, evidence-based case on your behalf.

To secure compensation, we’ll need to prove that the other driver was negligent. Every motorist on the road is required to exercise a duty of care to protect others. When this duty is breached—through reckless driving, speeding, or other forms of negligence—the responsible party can be held fully liable for your injuries.

Even if you share some fault for the crash, you may still be able to recover damages. As a pure comparative fault state, California allows you to seek compensation even if you are partially responsible for the accident.

Why Choose Tulekyan Law?

California sees an alarmingly high number of motor vehicle accidents each year, with over 155,000 fatal or injury-causing crashes annually on average. The 405 Freeway, one of the state’s busiest roadways, is a hotspot for serious collisions.

Our attorneys are experienced in handling a wide range of car accident injury claims, including:

• Head injuries such as concussions and traumatic brain injuries.
• Back and neck injuries, including chronic pain and whiplash.
• Vision impairment, including partial or permanent blindness caused by shattered glass.
• Internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding.
• Broken bones and fractures from the force of impact.
• Severe cuts and lacerations, leading to scarring, disfigurement, or ruptured muscles and tendons.
• Chest injuries that could affect the heart or lungs.
• Fatal injuries, resulting in wrongful death claims.

Protect Your Rights After an Accident

Whether you were rushing to catch a flight at LAX, commuting to work, or heading to the Santa Monica Pier, you deserve justice after a collision on the 405 Freeway.

At Tulekyan Law, we’re here to fight for the compensation you need to cover medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Contact Tulekyan Law Today

Don’t wait to get the help you need. Call Tulekyan Law today for a free consultation with one of our Los Angeles personal injury attorneys. Let us evaluate your case and help you secure the financial recovery you deserve.

Take the first step toward justice—contact us now!