The 101 Freeway through Woodland Hills and the San Fernando Valley is one of the busiest and most dangerous stretches of highway in Los Angeles County. If you have been involved in an accident on the 101, here is what you need to know about your legal rights.
Why the 101 is So Dangerous
The 101 Freeway carries over 300,000 vehicles daily through the San Fernando Valley. The stretch between the 405 interchange and Calabasas is particularly accident-prone due to heavy commuter traffic, lane changes near on-ramps, and the transition between the valley floor and the Conejo Grade.
Common Causes of 101 Freeway Accidents
- Distracted driving (phone use, texting)
- Tailgating at high speeds
- Sudden lane changes without signaling
- Merging collisions near the Topanga Canyon, De Soto, and Winnetka on-ramps
- Speed differentials between lanes
- Rear-end collisions in stop-and-go traffic
- Commercial truck accidents
Steps to Take After a Freeway Accident
- Move to the shoulder or emergency lane if safe to do so
- Call 911 — CHP (California Highway Patrol) responds to freeway accidents
- Turn on hazard lights and set up flares or triangles if you have them
- Exchange information with other drivers
- Document the scene with photos and get witness information
- Seek medical attention even if you feel uninjured
- Request the CHP accident report number
Freeway Accident Injuries
High-speed freeway collisions often result in more severe injuries than surface street accidents, including whiplash, herniated discs, broken bones, traumatic brain injury, and spinal cord damage. These cases typically result in higher compensation due to the severity of injuries.
Get Legal Help
Attorney Ron Fomalont has represented freeway accident victims throughout the San Fernando Valley since 1994. He knows the local roads, the local courts, and the insurance tactics used to minimize your claim.
Call (310) 459-9400 for a free case evaluation. No fee unless we win.
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