7 Most Dangerous Roads in California for Pedestrians

Key Takeaways 

Pedestrians in California must stay alert to stay safe.

• High-risk roads, traffic patterns, crosswalk placement, and street lighting affect pedestrian safety and accident likelihood.

Use crosswalks, obey signals, stay visible, and watch for vehicles to reduce risk.

• Reflective clothing, flashlights at night, and attentive walking help drivers see and anticipate you.

Even cautious pedestrians face hazards from others.

• Distracted drivers, speeding, and poor road conditions can still cause accidents despite careful walking.

Rely on a pedestrian accident lawyer to protect your rights.

• An attorney investigates incidents and pursues compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

California is known for its bustling cities, scenic highways, and vibrant communities. However, it’s also one of the most hazardous states for pedestrians.  In 2024, preliminary data from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) showed California’s pedestrian fatality rate dropped to around 2.35 per 100,000 people.

Every year, thousands of pedestrians are injured or killed in traffic accidents, making pedestrian safety a growing concern for residents and local authorities alike. Factors such as high traffic volume, speeding vehicles, poorly designed intersections, and inadequate lighting contribute to the risks on certain roads. By understanding which streets pose the greatest dangers, you can take precautions and avoid tragic incidents.

This guide highlights some of the most dangerous roads in California for pedestrians, explores the causes of accidents, and offers practical tips for staying safe.

7 Most Dangerous Roads in California for Pedestrians

California’s busy streets are beautiful, but some are notoriously dangerous for pedestrians. High traffic volume, speeding vehicles, and poor visibility contribute to the risk of accidents, making it essential to know which roads pose the greatest dangers. Below are some of the most hazardous roads in the state based on pedestrian accident data and traffic studies.

1. Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles

Sunset Boulevard is a cultural icon, but it’s also one of the deadliest roads for pedestrians in LA. Heavy traffic, multiple lanes, and fast-moving cars make crossing the street extremely risky. Pedestrian fatalities are frequently reported, especially in areas near nightlife districts and entertainment venues.

2. Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles

Hollywood Boulevard sees a high volume of foot traffic from tourists and locals alike, yet crosswalks are limited, and traffic often ignores signals. The combination of crowded sidewalks and impatient drivers contributes to a disproportionate number of pedestrian injuries and fatalities each year.

3. El Camino Real, San Mateo and Santa Clara Counties

El Camino Real is considered the most dangerous highway in California, stretching across multiple counties and serving as a major commuter route. Its wide lanes and high speeds make it particularly dangerous for pedestrians attempting to cross. Several studies have ranked it among the state’s highest in pedestrian accidents, especially during peak traffic hours.

4. Telegraph Avenue, Oakland

Oakland’s Telegraph Avenue is popular for its vibrant community and busy shopping areas, but pedestrian safety remains a serious concern. Inadequate lighting and poorly marked crossings have been linked to numerous pedestrian injuries, with evening and nighttime accidents being the most common.

5. MacArthur Boulevard, Oakland

Another Oakland hotspot, MacArthur Boulevard, has high-speed traffic and minimal pedestrian infrastructure in some stretches. Residents and commuters often cite the difficulty of safely navigating this corridor on foot, with pedestrian crashes frequently reported near intersections.

6. Santa Monica Boulevard, Los Angeles

Santa Monica Boulevard connects busy commercial and residential areas. Its heavy traffic, multiple lanes, and intersections without adequate crossing signals make it one of the more dangerous streets for pedestrians, especially those unfamiliar with the area.

7. Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco

Van Ness Avenue is one of San Francisco’s main thoroughfares, lined with offices, transit hubs, and shopping areas. Despite efforts to improve pedestrian safety, frequent collisions between vehicles and pedestrians continue to occur, often caused by distracted driving and insufficient crosswalk visibility.

Each of these roads shares common risk factors: high vehicle speeds, limited pedestrian crossings, inadequate lighting, and heavy traffic. Awareness of these dangers allows pedestrians to take precautions and avoid accidents.

Safety Tips for Pedestrians in California

California’s busy cities and roads can be risky to walk, but adopting safe habits can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents. Pedestrians need to remain vigilant and anticipate potential hazards. Follow these basic safety practices to protect yourself in high-traffic areas:

1. Use designated crosswalks and signals

Always cross streets at marked crosswalks and obey pedestrian signals. Avoid jaywalking, even if traffic seems light, as drivers may not expect pedestrians in undesignated areas.

2. Stay visible, especially at night

Wear bright or reflective clothing when walking after dark. Carrying a flashlight or using reflective accessories can let drivers see you from a distance, reducing the risk of accidents.

3. Avoid distractions

Refrain from using your phone or wearing headphones while crossing streets. Being alert allows you to notice vehicles, bicycles, or other pedestrians that may pose a danger.

4. Make eye contact with drivers

Before stepping onto the street, try to make eye contact with approaching drivers. It makes sure that they see you and can anticipate your movement, which is particularly important on multi-lane roads or at intersections.

5. Walk facing traffic on unpaved roads

When walking along roads without sidewalks, walk facing oncoming traffic. It allows you to see approaching vehicles and move out of the way if necessary.

6. Be cautious in high-risk areas

Exercise extra caution near busy highways, major thoroughfares, and areas with poor lighting or heavy traffic. Avoid crossing at blind curves or locations with obstructed views. 

By following these safety tips, pedestrians can significantly reduce their risk of injury. Awareness, vigilance, and responsible behavior are the most effective ways to stay safe on California’s streets.

How a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Can Help

Pedestrian accidents can result in serious injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. In many cases, victims may be unsure of their legal rights or how to pursue compensation. A pedestrian accident lawyer can provide critical guidance, making sure that you receive the support and justice you deserve.

1. Assessing liability

Establishing liability is essential for pursuing a fair claim. A lawyer investigates the accident to determine who is at fault. It may involve reviewing traffic camera footage, police reports, witness statements, and road conditions.

2. Handling insurance claims

Dealing with insurance companies can be complex, as insurers often try to minimize payouts. A lawyer advocates on behalf of the victim, negotiating with insurers to secure appropriate compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.

3. Pursuing legal action

If a fair settlement cannot be reached, a lawyer can file a lawsuit and represent the victim in court. Experienced attorneys understand the legal system and can navigate complex procedural requirements, increasing the chances of a favorable outcome.

4. Protecting your rights

A pedestrian accident lawyer guarantees that you do not unknowingly waive your rights or accept inadequate settlements. They provide guidance on deadlines, legal documentation, and the overall claims process.

5. Providing peace of mind

Recovering from a pedestrian accident can be overwhelming. Having a knowledgeable lawyer allows you to focus on your physical and emotional recovery while they handle legal matters professionally.

By working with a pedestrian accident lawyer, victims gain expert guidance, protect their legal rights, and increase the likelihood of receiving full compensation for their injuries and losses.

Protect Yourself and Know Your Rights

Pedestrians injured due to another driver’s negligence may have legal recourse, and understanding your rights is the first step toward protection. RMD Law’s experienced personal injury attorneys specialize in pedestrian and car accident cases, helping clients pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. 

By working with a skilled pedestrian accident attorney, victims can navigate complex legal processes with confidence. RMD Law offers free case evaluations to determine your options and ensure your rights are fully protected.

Injured in an accident? Contact RMD Law today for a free consultation: | Phone: (123) 456-7890.

FAQs

Why are these roads considered the most dangerous for pedestrians?

These roads have high pedestrian accident rates due to factors like heavy traffic, high speeds, inadequate crosswalks, poor lighting, and limited visibility.

How can pedestrians stay safe on these roads?

Always use crosswalks, obey traffic signals, make eye contact with drivers before crossing, wear visible clothing at night, and avoid distractions like phones.

Are there efforts to make these roads safer?

Yes. Cities are implementing measures such as speed reduction zones, pedestrian bridges, improved street lighting, and more visible signage to enhance safety.

Are these roads dangerous at all times or only at certain hours?

Accidents are more likely during peak traffic hours and at night when visibility is reduced, but caution is advised at all times.

Can drivers do anything to reduce pedestrian accidents?

Drivers should obey speed limits, stay alert, yield to pedestrians at crosswalks, and avoid distractions while driving.