Interstate 405 is one of the busiest highways in Southern California, running from Irvine to the San Fernando Valley. The route is a vital thoroughfare for commuters and delivery trucks, but the stretch of highway can also become the scene of devastating multi-vehicle collisions. If you were injured along the 405, you may be wondering, “Can you sue after a freeway pileup on the 405?” Read on to explore that question and related topics.
How Fault Is Determined After a Multi-Vehicle Freeway Crash
A significant portion of Interstate 405 runs through Orange County, which had 17,809 people injured or killed on roads and highways in 2023. Following a collision involving injuries or significant property damage, law enforcement will be called to the scene to investigate the cause and secure the area. In the days or weeks after a collision, the police officer may issue an accident report that contains key details about the cause or causes of the collision.
Any driver found to be violating a traffic law at the time of the crash could be held liable for causing the collision. Driver negligence can take many forms, and multiple parties may share liability for the collision. Distracted drivers can cause catastrophic injuries. In 2023, 3,275 people lost their lives due to negligent drivers who were texting, talking on the phone, or eating in the car in the moments leading up to a collision.
When Multiple Drivers May Share Responsibility
Multi-car pileups are far from uncommon along Interstate 405, and multiple drivers may be found liable for the collision. A June 2025 collision is a reminder of how quickly these crashes can upend lives.
On that day, a multi-vehicle crash occurred around 2:00 a.m. on the southbound 405 Freeway near Getty Center Drive in Los Angeles. The incident began when a Toyota pickup truck crashed on the freeway, and a second vehicle attempting to avoid the truck struck the center divider, creating a serious crash scene.
When fault is assigned to one or more parties, California follows a pure comparative negligence framework. The shared liability rule can hold more than one party responsible for causing a collision along Interstate 405. For example, someone found to be 30% at fault for causing a collision could recover 70% of the settlement or court verdict.
Multiple drivers may be found liable for a crash if they were speeding, distracted, engaging in aggressive driving, or otherwise negligent. Insurance companies are well aware of this rule and may try to shift blame onto drivers for contributing to their own injuries, thereby reducing the carrier’s financial liability.
Evidence That Can Help Establish Liability After a Pileup
Establishing liability after a pileup often requires reviewing multiple forms of evidence. The police report can provide insightful descriptions of the collision and its potential causes. Other reliable forms of evidence could include photographs of the crash scene, dashcam footage, and eyewitness testimony. Before someone can seek compensation, they may need to work with an attorney to reconstruct the sequence of events leading to the collision.
Why You Should Hire a Car Accident Lawyer
Whether you are from Balboa Peninsula, Shady Canyon, Floral Park, or another neighborhood near Interstate 405, your top priority should be to hire a car accident lawyer who understands California’s car accident laws and how to properly manage your car accident claim. With unwavering support from a car accident attorney, your case deserves.
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After my own car accident, I experienced firsthand the care, dedication, and professionalism my husband, Aaron Sinfield, brings to every case at Easton & Easton. From the very beginning, he was attentive and knowledgeable, guiding me through each step with clarity and confidence.
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I appreciate the services of Easton & Easton because they were timely in returning my calls and emails, they were truthful, and they followed through with each and every task. I was able to trust my case in their expert hands.
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As a past client of this firm, I can attest that they are AMAZING!! Travis Easton was able to settle with the other driver and then get me additional money through my own Underinsured Motorist Coverage. I am so grateful for the work they did for me!
*Client testimonials reflect individual experiences and do not guarantee a similar outcome.
FAQs
Who Is at Fault in a Freeway Pileup?
Freeway pileup collisions are complex, and it can take considerable time for investigators to determine who is at fault in a freeway collision. After the initial collision, the actions of other drivers can all play a role in determining liability. Key evidence could include photos of the collision scene, dashcam footage, the police report, or eyewitness testimony. Complex cases may result in multiple parties, including product manufacturers, sharing liability for a collision.
What Is Considered a Reasonable Settlement Offer After a Multi-Vehicle Crash?
A reasonable settlement should account for the harm and setbacks you suffered. The figure should also reflect both financial losses you incurred and the emotional harm you endured. An attorney can help you calculate the full value of your settlement so you do not face future financial hardships. Once you accept any settlement offer, you will no longer be eligible to pursue compensation for that specific injury.
How Much Are Most Car Accident Settlements?
Car accident settlements vary considerably, so there is no readily available average to cite. That being said, there are factors that shape nearly every car settlement negotiation. The person seeking compensation must present evidence to back their claim.
The injury and any financial hardships they faced as a result of the collision should also be well documented. When a well-documented injury causes serious hardship, the victim may be eligible for substantial compensation.
How Is Compensation Calculated After a Serious Car Crash?
Compensation is calculated by accounting for both economic and non-economic damages. Tangible losses from medical bills, lost wages, and other financial hardships can be calculated using pay stubs, receipts, and bills. Injury claims may also account for the intangible harm someone suffered through emotional trauma and physical pain. An experienced injury attorney can account for both types of losses.
Dedicated Freeway Pileup Attorneys Serving California
A multi-vehicle collision along Interstate 405 can leave you contending with serious injuries and unexpected financial hardships. When you secure legal representation from Easton & Easton, you gain the support of a proven team of litigators. To date, we have reclaimed more than $2 billion for our clients, including $250 million in the last five years alone.
What sets our law firm apart is our focus on high-value injury claims. Securing a large settlement from a highway accident requires experience and focus. We are not intimidated by large trucking groups or their legal team. After building a strong claim based on compelling evidence and sound legal arguments, we can move forward with a focus on protecting your rights and advocating for your interests. Contact our office today to schedule your initial consultation.
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