Traffic Congestion

Traffic Congestion in Santa Monica and How It Contributes to Accidents

Santa Monica’s coastal charm, iconic landmarks like the pier and Third Street Promenade, and proximity to Los Angeles make it one of the most visited cities in California. While its popularity brings energy and economic benefits, it also results in a significant downside—intense traffic congestion. For residents, commuters, and tourists alike, Santa Monica’s crowded streets present daily challenges, and unfortunately, an increased risk of car accidents.

At Cohen Legal, we represent individuals who have been injured in traffic collisions across Santa Monica and the greater Los Angeles area. In this article, we’ll explore how Santa Monica’s traffic patterns contribute to accidents, what types of crashes are most common, and what you can do if you’ve been injured in one.

Traffic Congestion in Santa Monica

Why Santa Monica Has Some of the Worst Traffic in California

1. High Tourism Volume

Santa Monica attracts over 8 million visitors annually. During the summer and holiday seasons, the influx of tourists more than doubles the number of vehicles on the road. Tourists unfamiliar with local traffic laws or routes may make last-minute lane changes or abrupt stops, leading to collisions.

2. Limited Road Infrastructure

Unlike newer cities designed for high traffic capacity, Santa Monica’s streets were built decades ago and were never meant to support the current volume of cars. Narrow streets, limited left-turn lanes, and limited alternative routes mean any disruption—like a fender bender or road construction—can create gridlock.

3. Intersection Bottlenecks

Key intersections such as Lincoln Boulevard & Olympic, Pico Boulevard & Cloverfield, and Wilshire Boulevard & 26th Street are notorious for gridlock. Heavy traffic and red-light timing often result in blocked intersections, frustrated drivers, and increased chances of rear-end and T-bone collisions.

4. Beach and Event Traffic

Traffic surges significantly during beach days, weekends, and events like the Twilight Concert Series or Santa Monica’s many summer festivals. Drivers circling for parking or navigating unfamiliar detours create conditions ripe for distracted driving and side-impact accidents.

Common Types of Accidents in Santa Monica Due to Congestion

Traffic congestion increases the risk of several types of accidents:

1. Rear-End Collisions

Stop-and-go traffic means frequent braking. When a distracted or aggressive driver fails to react in time, it results in rear-end collisions. These are among the most common types of accidents we see at Cohen Legal and often lead to whiplash and other soft tissue injuries.

2. Pedestrian Accidents

In high-traffic zones like the Third Street Promenade, Main Street, and Ocean Avenue, foot traffic and vehicle traffic intersect constantly. Drivers focused on finding parking or inching through a jammed street may overlook a crosswalk, endangering pedestrians.

3. Side-Impact (T-Bone) Crashes

Drivers trying to beat yellow lights or make unprotected left turns across multiple lanes during a lull in traffic often misjudge the speed or distance of oncoming cars. This behavior contributes to a high rate of side-impact collisions at congested intersections.

4. Sideswipe Accidents

Heavy traffic leads to frequent lane changes, often without sufficient signaling or spacing. On streets like Santa Monica Boulevard or Wilshire during rush hour, vehicles are tightly packed, and one poor decision can result in a sideswipe crash.

5. Bike and Scooter Accidents

Santa Monica has a high volume of cyclists and electric scooter users, especially near the beach. Congestion makes it difficult for drivers to spot them in time, particularly in narrow lanes without protected bike paths.

Traffic Congestion and the Risk of Serious Injury

Even at low speeds, congestion-related crashes can cause serious injuries. Common injuries we see include:

  • Whiplash and neck strains from rear-end collisions

  • Concussions and TBIs due to sudden impact

  • Broken bones and soft tissue injuries from sideswipes or T-bones

  • Spinal injuries in cases involving high-speed or multi-car collisions

  • Pedestrian injuries, including fractures and internal trauma, often caused by low-visibility scenarios or right-turning vehicles

Many of these injuries require long-term medical care, physical therapy, and time off work. The financial burden can be severe, especially when insurance companies delay or deny rightful compensation.

What to Do If You’re Involved in a Santa Monica Traffic Accident

If you’re injured in a collision in Santa Monica, it’s important to take these steps:

1. Call 911

Always report the accident to the authorities. A police report provides an official record of the crash, which can be essential in establishing fault and recovering damages.

2. Get Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine, get checked out. Many injuries don’t show symptoms right away. Medical records are also important for documenting the extent of your injuries.

3. Document the Scene

If you’re able, take photos of your vehicle, other vehicles involved, the surrounding area, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. Collect witness information when possible.

4. Avoid Admitting Fault

Limit what you say to other parties or insurers at the scene. Even saying “I’m sorry” could be twisted into an admission of guilt.

5. Contact a Santa Monica Car Accident Lawyer

An experienced attorney can protect your rights, deal with insurance adjusters, and pursue maximum compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

How Cohen Legal Can Help

At Cohen Legal, we’ve helped countless clients in Santa Monica and the surrounding areas get justice after traffic accidents. Here’s how we stand out:

Local Knowledge

We know Santa Monica’s traffic patterns, problem intersections, and common accident scenarios. That helps us build stronger cases with location-specific details that insurance companies can’t ignore.

Direct Attorney Access

When you work with us, you’re not handed off to a case manager. You get personal attention from a real attorney who knows your name and your story.

Aggressive Representation

Whether negotiating with an insurance company or litigating in court, we fight to get you the full compensation you deserve. We know the tactics insurance companies use—and we know how to beat them.

No Upfront Fees

We work on a contingency basis. That means if we don’t win your case, you don’t pay. It’s that simple.

Avoiding Congestion-Related Accidents: Safety Tips for Santa Monica Drivers

While some congestion is unavoidable, you can reduce your risk by driving smart:

  • Plan ahead: Use apps like Waze or Google Maps to check traffic conditions before you leave.

  • Avoid peak hours: Traffic is worst between 8–10 a.m. and 4–7 p.m.

  • Use side streets cautiously: Local shortcuts like Pearl Street and Ashland Ave can help avoid main arteries, but be aware of increased pedestrian and cyclist activity.

  • Stay patient: Avoid aggressive driving, tailgating, or frequent lane changes.

  • Watch for tourists: Expect erratic stops and sudden turns from out-of-towners unfamiliar with the area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is traffic congestion a legal factor in determining fault in an accident?

Traffic alone doesn’t assign fault, but the behaviors caused by it—like following too closely or unsafe lane changes—can establish liability.

Can I still recover compensation if I was partly at fault?

Yes. California follows a comparative fault rule, which means you can recover damages even if you were partially responsible, though your compensation may be reduced accordingly.

How long do I have to file a claim after a car accident in Santa Monica?

You generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in California. Don’t wait—evidence disappears quickly.

What if I was hit by a tourist who doesn’t live in California?

You can still file a claim. Their insurance policy will likely provide coverage, and we can pursue it on your behalf, even across state lines.

Does traffic camera footage help prove my case?

Yes. In high-traffic areas like Santa Monica, camera footage from intersections, businesses, or dashcams can be critical in establishing fault.

Get Help from a Santa Monica Car Accident Attorney Today

Traffic congestion may be a fact of life in Santa Monica, but you don’t have to suffer the consequences alone if it leads to a serious crash. If you or a loved one was injured in an accident, contact Cohen Legal today.

We’ll listen to your story, explain your legal options, and fight for the compensation you need to recover. Call now for a free consultation.