Car and truck accidents in Los Angeles are very common, partly due to the fact that there are too many cars on the road and partly due to the violation of the vehicle code. We will go over the top five traffic laws that lead to accidents and provide instances for each.
Vehicle Code Section 21703 (a) – Following too close
This is also known as tailgating and is one of the most common causes of accidents. Under California law, drivers must maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of them to allow for sudden stops or changes in direction. The three-second rule is a simple way to ensure that you are following at a safe distance. To use this rule, select a fixed point on the road, such as a sign or a tree. Once the vehicle in front of you passes the fixed point, count to three before passing the same point. If you pass the same point before reaching three, you are following too closely.
Vehicle Code Section 22350 – Speeding
Driving in excess of the posted speed limit is also a leading cause of accidents in Los Angeles. Most speeding accidents often result in catastrophic accidents, and even death. Furthermore, drivers should always adjust their speed based on road conditions, weather, and traffic flow. In California, fines for speeding violations can range from $35 to $500, depending on the severity of the offense. A speeding ticket for driving in excess of 100 miles per hour will result in 2 driving points on your driver’s license – which is the equivalent of a DUI. If a driver has 3 driving points in one year, it could result in s driver’s license suspension.
Vehicle Code Section 21453 (a) – Failing to stop at a red light
Running a red light is a serious vehicle code violation which can result in fines and even driver’s license suspension. Drivers who run red lights often do so because they are in a hurry or because they are distracted. Accidents from running a red light can be serious, and often fatal.
Vehicle Code Section 23152 (a) – Driving while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and the single most dangerous thing a driver can do. Alcohol and drugs impair a driver’s ability to make rational decisions, react to changes in traffic, and maintain control of their vehicle and making it more difficult for you to avoid accidents. In California, the legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08%. Driving under the influence can result in serious injury or death to yourself or others.
Vehicle Code Section 21801 (a) – Illegal left turns
When making a left turn, a driver must yield to oncoming traffic, pedestrians, and bicyclists. Drivers should only make a left turn when it is safe to do so and when there is enough time to complete the turn before the oncoming vehicle arrives. Failing to follow proper left turn regulations may result in a head-on collision with other vehicles.
