Pasadena, California, enjoys a reputation for its cultural wealth and famous events. The city is enjoyed by residents and tourists alike. However, Pasadena still faces considerable traffic difficulties. Residents and visitors must understand Pasadena’s car accident statistics and local traffic laws, along with contributing factors, to ensure safe street navigation while on the road.

Pasadena Car Accident Statistics

The city of Pasadena draws a large number of tourists every year because it serves as a center for various cultural attractions and events. The rise of drivers from outside the area who do not know local traffic rules and patterns leads to higher accident rates. For example, the Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game draw large crowds, which substantially increase traffic volume, requiring both residents and visitors to exercise extra caution.

In 2022, Pasadena recorded five fatal car accidents, which was a decrease from the previous year. The number of fatal car accidents in Pasadena rose to 14 during 2021, which represented a 100% increase from the previous year. Eighteen vehicles were involved in these incidents, which shows a significant rise compared to eight vehicles in 2020.

The year 2021 saw no fatal accidents caused by drunk drivers, which decreased from four recorded cases in 2020. The number of fatalities reached 14 in 2021, compared to eight during the previous year.

High-Risk Areas

Traffic congestion and accidents occur more frequently in specific Pasadena locations. This is due to high levels of traffic. Some of the most accident-prone intersections include:

  • Colorado Boulevard. Colorado Boulevard serves as a key traffic route that experiences heavy congestion during special events.
  • Fair Oaks Avenue and Orange Grove Boulevard Intersection. This intersection between Fair Oaks Avenue and Orange Grove Boulevard faces high risk because of its complicated traffic signals and multiple pedestrian crossings.
  • 210 Freeway Interchanges. The 210 Freeway Interchange experiences such severe congestion during peak times that drivers face elevated risk levels for traffic collisions.

It is essential for drivers to maintain extra vigilance in these areas to minimize accident risks.

Local Laws and Ordinances

Pasadena follows California traffic laws and adds local ordinances to meet the specific needs of the city. The Pasadena Municipal Code Title 10 includes several traffic regulations concerning speed limits and parking, in addition to procedures for implementing traffic-control devices.

Chapter 10.16 provides instructions for placing and maintaining traffic-control devices that help maintain traffic order and improve safety. Drivers must know Pasadena’s local laws to operate their vehicles both legally and safely on its streets.

In the event of a car accident, having access to emergency services is important. In Pasadena, victims can go to the Huntington Hospital at 100 W. California Blvd. They may also go to the Pasadena Police Department located at 207 N. Garfield to make a report.

Common Types of Car Accidents

In Pasadena, a number of different accidents can occur. Some of the most common types include:

  • Rear-end collisions. These accidents commonly happen in areas with heavy traffic where drivers must stop unexpectedly.
  • Collisions with pedestrians or cyclists. Areas with dense foot and bicycle movement experience frequent pedestrian and bicyclist accidents.
  • Intersections. Intersection accidents occur when drivers fail to yield or run red lights and incorrectly estimate the speed of other vehicles.
  • Driving while intoxicated. Drivers operating vehicles while intoxicated account for a large portion of the city’s traffic accidents.

These accidents can be caused by a number of reasons, including distracted driving, reckless driving, and weather conditions. While Pasadena has generally mild weather conditions, the presence of rain and fog in the city poses driving risks by limiting visibility and creating slippery road surfaces.

The public transportation system in Pasadena operates both bus services and rideshare options. Passenger injuries and complex liability decisions can result from accidents involving these transportation methods.

Local Resources

For victims involved in car accidents, accessing local legal resources is essential, especially when seeking a legal claim to be compensated for damages. Individuals can contact the following:

  • Pasadena Courthouse. Located at 300 E. Walnut St., Pasadena, CA 91101, and handles traffic-related cases and legal proceedings
  • California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Pasadena Office. Located at 49 S. Rosemead Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91107, and provides services related to driver’s licenses and vehicle registrations​
  • Local insurance companies, such as State Farm, Mercury Insurance, Reinas Insurance Agency Inc., and A J Longo & Associates Insurance, are available

FAQs

Q: Which County in California Has the Most Car Accidents?

A: In California, most car accidents occur in Los Angeles County because of its dense population combined with an extensive freeway network and heavy traffic congestion. Elevated crash rates result from the combination of high commuter traffic alongside frequent tourist activities and differing road conditions. The majority of traffic incidents in the county occur at urban intersections and along freeways and high-speed roadways.

Q: What State in the U.S. Has the Highest Car Accident Rate?

A: The car accident rates are highest in states that have both expansive road networks and large populations. Rural highway conditions, as well as urban traffic congestion and extreme weather patterns, raise these accident figures. States that experience high levels of speeding, impaired driving, and distracted driving typically encounter more crashes and fatalities on their roadways.

Q: What Are 90% of Car Accidents Caused By?

A: Human error stands as the primary cause behind most car accidents that involve distracted driving, along with speeding and reckless behavior, as well as impaired driving. Significant accident factors include failing to yield to other drivers and running red lights or tailgating.

Although weather and road conditions affect accidents, they occur most often because drivers fail to maintain proper care. Following traffic regulations and practicing defensive driving provides protection against numerous car accidents.

Q: Where Do Most Fatal Car Accidents Occur?

A: Highways, rural roads, and high-speed intersections experience the highest number of fatal car accidents. Deadly crashes occur more frequently in rural areas because of faster driving speeds combined with poor lighting and slower emergency medical service response times. High-traffic intersections and crowded roads in cities create dangerous conditions that lead to serious accidents, especially when drivers speed or drive distracted or under the influence.

Contact Thon Beck Vanni Callahan & Powell LLP Today

If you have been involved in a car accident and suffered damages, Thon Beck Vanni Callahan & Powell LLP can help you recover what you are due. Contact us today to get started.