Common Causes of Car Accidents in California and What They Mean for Your Claim

Distracted driving is one of the most common causes of car accidents in California and often points directly to driver negligence. Distraction includes texting, scrolling, eating, adjusting navigation, or reaching for an object. Under California Vehicle Code §23123 and §23123.5, using a handheld phone or texting while driving is generally unlawful, and a violation can help support a negligence claim. If you were hurt by a distracted driver, a free case review can help you understand your options.

Speeding is a leading cause of car accidents because it reduces reaction time and increases the force of impact. California’s “basic speed law” under Vehicle Code §22350 generally prohibits driving faster than is safe for current conditions, even when a driver is under the posted limit. Excessive speed in rain, traffic, or poor visibility may be strong evidence of fault. Our team can help you review what the available evidence suggests.

Driving under the influence is a common and preventable cause of serious crashes. Under California Vehicle Code §23152, it is generally unlawful to drive with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher, or while impaired by drugs. A DUI conviction can be significant in a related injury claim, and in some cases a bar or host may share responsibility. If a drunk driver injured you, a free case review may help clarify who could be held responsible.

Drowsy driving is a frequently overlooked cause of car accidents that can be just as dangerous as impaired driving. Fatigue slows reaction time and can cause a driver to drift out of a lane or miss a stop entirely. Long-haul commuters and commercial drivers may be especially at risk. Because fatigue is hard to see, evidence like phone records, work logs, and witness accounts often matters, and our team can help you gather it.

Poor weather and road hazards contribute to many California car accidents, but they rarely excuse a driver entirely. Drivers are generally expected to adjust for rain, fog, slick pavement, or debris, and failing to do so can still count as negligence. In some cases, a government entity responsible for road maintenance may share fault, which can involve shorter claim deadlines. A legal professional can help you sort out these more complex situations.

Vehicle defects such as faulty brakes, worn or defective tires, and steering failures are a less obvious cause of car accidents that can shift responsibility beyond the drivers. When a defective part causes a crash, a manufacturer or repair shop may potentially be held liable under California product liability principles. These claims can be technical and often require preserving the vehicle and parts as evidence. If you suspect a defect, a free case review can help you decide what to do next.

Proving fault in a California car accident generally means showing that another party was negligent and that their negligence caused your injuries. California follows a pure comparative fault rule, so you may still recover compensation even if you were partly at fault, with your award reduced by your share of responsibility. Most personal injury claims are subject to the two-year statute of limitations under Code of Civil Procedure §335.1, though exceptions can apply. Our team can help you review the deadlines that may affect your claim.