Driving in Los Angeles can feel like a daily obstacle course — from packed freeways to distracted drivers and unpredictable intersections. Avoid common car accidents in Los Angeles consistently ranks among the most congested and accident-prone cities in the U.S.

But the good news? Most collisions are preventable. With the right awareness and habits, you can avoid common car accidents in Los Angeles and drive with more confidence on even the busiest streets.

1. Know the Most Common Causes of LA Accidents

Before you can avoid accidents, it helps to know what causes them. According to LAPD and California traffic data, the most frequent causes include:

• Rear-end collisions
• Lane-change accidents
• Intersection crashes
• Speeding and aggressive driving
• Distracted driving (especially texting)
• Driving under the influence (DUI)

2. Maintain a Safe Following Distance

Tailgating is a leading cause of rear-end crashes. In LA traffic, it’s tempting to stay close — but that leaves no room for sudden stops.

✅ Tip: Use the 3-second rule to maintain a safe distance, even at lower speeds.

3. Avoid Aggressive Lane Changes

Changing lanes without signaling or checking blind spots is a major cause of side-swipe accidents, especially on the 405 or I-10.

✅ Tip: Always use your turn signals and check mirrors + blind spots before switching lanes.

4. Stay Alert at Intersections

Intersections are hotspots for accidents in LA. Drivers often run red lights or make sudden left turns.

✅ Tip: Slow down as you approach, and look both ways even when the light is green.

5. Watch for Pedestrians and Cyclists

LA has a high number of pedestrian and bicycle accidents — especially in high-foot-traffic areas like Downtown, Hollywood, and Venice.

✅ Tip: Be cautious near crosswalks and bike lanes. Never block intersections or crosswalks at red lights.

➡️ California DMV – Sharing the Road with Pedestrians and Cyclists

6. Limit Distractions

Even a glance at your phone can lead to disaster in stop-and-go traffic.

✅ Tip: Use hands-free devices, set your GPS before driving, and put your phone away.

California law bans holding a phone while driving — and the fines (plus insurance hikes) aren’t worth the risk.

7. Drive Defensively, Not Aggressively

Defensive driving means anticipating what others might do and reacting safely. It’s especially important in a city as unpredictable as LA.

✅ Tip: Stay patient, yield when needed, and avoid escalating road rage — it’s not worth it.

8. Avoid Peak Traffic Hours (If Possible)

If you can, plan your drives to avoid:

• Weekday rush hours (7–10 AM and 3–7 PM)
• Fridays (statistically the most dangerous day for crashes)
• Holiday weekends

9. Keep Your Vehicle Maintained

Worn brakes, bald tires, or faulty signals can make accidents more likely — and can get you cited during a stop.

✅ Tip: Do regular safety checks, especially before long commutes or road trips.

10. Know What to Do If an Accident Happens

Even careful drivers can be hit by someone else. If you’re involved in a crash:

• Check for injuries
• Call 911
• Take photos
• Exchange info
• File a police report
• Contact your insurance
• Speak with a car accident lawyer

➡️ Contact a Los Angeles Car Accident Attorney to protect your rights after a crash.

Final Thoughts

You can’t control LA traffic — but you can control how you respond to it. By following these tips to avoid common car accidents in Los Angeles, you reduce your risk, protect your vehicle, and keep others safe on the road.

Whether you’re a long-time Angeleno or a new driver in the city, staying alert and informed makes all the difference.