Los Angeles stretches out endlessly with its web of freeways, surface streets, and unrelenting traffic. No matter if you’re commuting to the office, driving to the beach, handling errands, or checking out neighborhood spots, you’ll run into roads crammed with cars, buses, bikes, and people on foot.
Certain streets and intersections stand out for higher rates of accidents and injuries. This article spotlights LA’s most dangerous roads and intersections prone to serious car accidents, pedestrian hits, and other traffic injuries. Spotting these danger zones lets drivers and walkers stay alert and pick safer routes.
Most Dangerous Roads in Los Angeles
Here are some of the major roadways in Los Angeles known for higher rates of auto accidents and personal injury risk.
1. Interstate 405 (San Diego Freeway)
The 405 Freeway is one of the busiest north-south highways in the region. It runs from the San Fernando Valley down through West Los Angeles all the way to Long Beach.
Because of heavy commuter and truck traffic, merge lanes, and frequent slowdowns, rear-end collisions and multi-vehicle crashes happen often here. Drivers entering and exiting at busy ramps near Sepulveda Boulevard or the Getty Center area face sudden speed changes, which can lead to dangerous situations.
2. Interstate 10 (Santa Monica Freeway)
The 10 Freeway stretches from Santa Monica east through Downtown LA and beyond. The sections near Santa Monica Boulevard and Beverly Boulevard carry dense commuter flow, combined with local traffic entering and exiting regularly.
These merge points, along with steep on- and off-ramp transitions, contribute to frequent collisions. Pedestrian crossings near exits and transit stops can also raise the risk of injury.
3. U.S. Route 101 (Hollywood Freeway)
The 101 Freeway runs through Hollywood, Downtown, and the San Fernando Valley. Because this route serves both locals and out-of-town drivers unfamiliar with the area, sudden lane changes or last-minute merges are common which leads to a risk of an accident.
Bumper-to-bumper traffic, frequent exits, and high volumes of rideshare vehicles increase the likelihood of rear-end and sideswipe collisions.
4. Sepulveda Boulevard
Sepulveda Boulevard runs alongside major freeway segments and connects many high-traffic zones, including the LA Westside and the San Fernando Valley.
Because it parallels freeways like the 405, it sees heavy use throughout the day. Drivers may speed up to avoid freeway congestion, which leads to more serious crashes. Pedestrians and bicyclists also use this road, increasing the chance of vehicle–pedestrian accidents.
5. Sunset Boulevard
Sunset Boulevard stretches across Los Angeles, from Downtown to the Pacific Coast Highway. It’s a mix of residential, commercial, and entertainment zones.
The road’s changing speed limits, frequent traffic lights, and heavy use by both local and out-of-town drivers make it prone to intersection crashes, rear-end collisions, and sideswipe collisions.
Most Dangerous Intersections in Los Angeles
Intersections concentrate risk because they involve turning vehicles, crossing pedestrians, signal timing, and multiple lanes of travel.
1. Wilshire Boulevard & La Cienega Boulevard
This intersection combines two major thoroughfares in a high-traffic zone of West Los Angeles. The mix of cars, buses, and pedestrians creates frequent angle collisions and rear-ends. Left turns often conflict with oncoming traffic, adding to the injury risk.
2. Sepulveda Boulevard & Ventura Boulevard
In the San Fernando Valley, this intersection sees heavy commuter traffic and frequent rideshare pickups. Drivers shifting lanes to reach freeways or parking areas can cause sideswipe and rear-end crashes.
Pedestrians trying to cross this wide intersection must navigate multiple lanes, increasing exposure to potential collisions.
3. Broadway & 7th Street (Downtown LA)
Downtown LA is a busy hub, and the intersection of Broadway & 7th Street combines commuter vehicles with heavy foot traffic. Tour buses, delivery trucks, and rideshare pickups add to the conflict. Drivers making quick turns often misjudge signal timing or pedestrian movement.
4. Pacific Coast Highway & Topanga Canyon Boulevard
This intersection is a major gateway between inland Los Angeles and coastal areas. High vehicle speeds, combined with quick turning lanes and merging traffic, lead to a higher risk of collisions. Pedestrian crossings near shopping and dining areas add to the complexity.
5. Santa Monica Boulevard & Highland Avenue
This intersection near Hollywood draws heavy traffic from tourists, commuters, and local drivers. The mix of traffic, frequent lane changes, and rapid signal changes leads to more frequent crashes.
Pedestrians here can be at increased risk because crosswalks span multiple lanes of travel in both directions.
Tips to Stay Safer in High-Risk Areas
Even in busy Los Angeles traffic, these simple habits can lower risk:
- Slow down near busy intersections and freeway ramps
- Watch for pedestrians and bicyclists at crosswalks
- Avoid distractions like phones while driving
- Leave extra room between you and the vehicle ahead
- Use marked crosswalks when walking
- Watch for sudden stops from rideshare or delivery vehicles
Being alert and patient can go a long way in preventing crashes.
What to Do If You’re Injured on a Los Angeles Road or Intersection
If you’re hurt in a Los Angeles car accident or pedestrian collision, these steps can help protect your health and your options:
- Call 911
- Get medical care right away, even if injuries seem minor at first.
- Take photos of the scene, vehicles, and any injuries.
- Collect witness contact info if possible.
- Save all medical bills and records, and repair estimates.
- Be cautious with insurance statements before you understand your options.
Your Next Steps After a Los Angeles Road or Intersection Accident
Los Angeles has many roads and intersections that carry heavy traffic every day. Corridors like the 405 Freeway, Route 101, and Sepulveda Boulevard, along with intersections such as Wilshire and La Cienega or Broadway and 7th, see constant movement from cars, buses, and pedestrians. That volume alone increases the chance of accidents.
Being aware of where these risks are can help you stay alert, but even careful people get hurt. Whether you’re commuting to work, running errands, or walking near a busy intersection, road design and traffic flow play a big role in safety.
If an accident left you injured, Siegal & Richardson, LLP is available to review your situation and help you decide what to do next. Contact us today.