Speeding In Los Angeles: The Risks and Its Consequences

Speeding in Los Angeles is more than a minor mistake—it seriously threatens lives. The city’s fast-paced lifestyle and congested streets lead many drivers to push beyond the speed limit, often with tragic results. Whether commuting down Wilshire Boulevard or racing across the 405, ignoring speed laws can have devastating consequences. 

In this article, we’ll explore how speeding increases your risk of traffic accidents and affects your legal rights, especially in personal injury claims. Let’s dive into what every California driver should know—and why slowing down might save more than just time.

Why Speeding in Los Angeles Is So Dangerous

Los Angeles is known for its traffic, but the danger escalates when speeding is involved. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that fatalities caused by speeding increased by 8% from 2020 to 2021, resulting in over 12,000 deaths. That accounts for 29% of all traffic deaths in the U.S. 

Even more alarming:

• Injuries from speeding rose by 7% during that time.
• One-third of motorcycle riders in fatal crashes were speeding. 

In a city as busy as Los Angeles, where vehicle collisions often occur near landmarks like the Hollywood Freeway or Sunset Boulevard, the risks multiply due to heavy traffic, frequent lane changes, and distracted driving.

What Does California Law Say About Speeding?

Under California Vehicle Code (CVC) Section 22349, the state sets clear maximum speed limits to help keep roads safe. As outlined in the California Manual for Setting Speed Limits:

• 55 mph is the maximum speed on two-lane, undivided highways.
• 65 mph is the limit on most other roads across California.

Exceeding these limits can lead to traffic violations, fines, points on your license, or—worse—criminal charges if it results in wrongful death or serious car accident injuries. However, based on conditions and regulations, speed limits can vary by area, such as school zones, construction zones, or freeway stretches.

Legal Consequences of Speeding in Personal Injury Cases

If you’re involved in a motor vehicle accident due to someone speeding, it can dramatically affect your personal injury claim:

• Fault Determination: Speeding is often considered reckless driving, which helps prove negligence.
• Insurance Claims: Insurance companies may deny or reduce a settlement offer if you were speeding.
• Court Judgments: Juries may side against drivers who violated speed laws, reducing compensation.
• Accident Evidence: Accident reconstruction experts often use speed data to prove fault or liability in a personal injury lawsuit.

What Should You Do After a Speeding-Related Accident?

If you’ve been in a crash caused by someone speeding in Los Angeles, take these steps:

1. Get medical attention – Prioritize your safety, even if injuries seem minor.
2. Call 911 – Ensure a police report is filed and mention speeding.
3. Gather evidence – Take photos of damage, location, traffic signals, and skid marks.
4. Get witness statements – They may help confirm reckless behavior like speeding or distracted driving.
5. Consult a personal injury attorney – The best car accident attorney in Los Angeles can help protect your rights.

How Speeding Impacts Your Insurance and Compensation

Speeding doesn’t just cause property damage and medical expenses—it can seriously affect your insurance standing and financial recovery:

Insurance providers often use speeding data to justify low settlement offers or outright rejections. A Los Angeles car accident lawyer can negotiate effectively and ensure your insurance policy works for—not against—you.

Tips to Avoid Speeding-Related Crashes

• Always know the posted speed limit—especially near Griffith Park or the Pacific Coast Highway.
• Avoid aggressive driving behaviors (tailgating, frequent lane changes).
• Use cruise control during long drives.
• Leave early to avoid the pressure to speed.

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