Fatal Wrong-Way Car Accident on 405 Freeway Causes Major Delays

A deadly crash involving a wrong-way driver shut down the southbound 405 Freeway in Sherman Oaks early Tuesday morning, creating widespread traffic disruptions. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported that just after 4 a.m., a driver was seen traveling north in the southbound lanes. Moments later, a multi-vehicle collision occurred near Valley Vista Boulevard. At least one person was killed, and another was taken to the hospital with unknown injuries.

Authorities issued a SigAlert at 4:30 a.m., closing all southbound lanes and causing hours of congestion throughout the San Fernando Valley. Commuters on the 101 Freeway, Ventura Boulevard, and surrounding roads experienced severe delays, with some routes taking over an hour longer than usual. The freeway fully reopened shortly before 10 a.m. Officials have not released the wrong-way driver’s identity, and it remains unclear whether intoxication played a role in the crash.

Wrong-way crashes often cause devastating injuries or fatalities, leaving victims and their families overwhelmed. At King Personal Injury, we fight for those affected by head-on collisions, ensuring they get the compensation they deserve. These crashes frequently involve reckless or impaired drivers, and the consequences can be life-altering. Our team investigates every detail, gathering evidence to prove liability and maximize your recovery.

King Personal Injury is ready to help. We offer free consultations and charge no fees unless we win your case. Call us today at (805) 721-3721 to discuss your rights and next steps.

Award-Winning San Fernando Valley Car Accident Attorneys

Head-on collisions are among the most dangerous types of crashes, often leading to severe injuries or fatalities. In a region as busy as the San Fernando Valley and surrounding areas, these accidents occur on major freeways like the 405, 101, and 5, where high speeds and heavy traffic increase the risks. At King Personal Injury, we have built a reputation for securing substantial settlements for car accident victims. Our legal team knows how to hold negligent drivers accountable and fight for the compensation our clients deserve.

Why Legal Representation is Crucial After a Head-on Car Collision

Victims of head-on car accidents often face overwhelming challenges, from physical recovery to financial stress. Insurance companies work quickly to minimize payouts, making it difficult for accident victims to get full compensation. A personal injury attorney protects your rights, gathers evidence, and negotiates aggressively with insurers. Without legal representation, victims may receive far less than they need for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Our team ensures that every aspect of your case is handled while you focus on healing.

Protecting Your Rights After a Head-on Crash

Insurance companies use various tactics to limit payouts, from disputing liability to downplaying the severity of injuries. A personal injury attorney fights back, ensuring that your legal rights are upheld. Our team investigates every detail, from police reports to medical records, ensuring that no evidence is overlooked.

Maximizing Compensation for Your Losses

Medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and emotional trauma can place an enormous financial burden on victims. A skilled attorney calculates the full extent of damages, including future expenses, to ensure that you receive a fair settlement. If necessary, we take cases to court to fight for the compensation our clients deserve.

Complexes of dealing With Insurance Claims After a Head-on Auto Accident

Filing an insurance claim after a head-on crash isn’t always straightforward. Victims may assume they’ll receive compensation for their injuries, but insurance companies have teams of adjusters working to minimize payouts.

Common Insurance Company Tactics

Insurance companies use various strategies to reduce or deny claims, including:

• Blaming the victim – Insurers may argue that you were partially responsible for the crash.
• Questioning the severity of injuries – They may claim that your injuries existed before the accident.
• Offering undervalued settlements – Initial offers are often far less than what victims need for long-term care.

Why You Shouldn’t Accept the First Settlement Offer

Many victims feel pressured to accept an early settlement, especially when faced with medical bills and lost income. However, these offers rarely account for long-term costs. An attorney ensures that your claim reflects all damages, including ongoing medical care and lost future earnings.

How a King Law Firm Attorney Strengthens Your Claim

Our legal team handles everything from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurers. We work with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and financial analysts to build a strong case. If negotiations fail, we are prepared to take your case to court to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Dangers of Head-on Collisions

Unlike most car accidents, head-on crashes involve the full force of two vehicles colliding, often at high speeds. These accidents tend to be more severe than side-impact or rear-end collisions because of the direct impact between the front ends of both vehicles.

Why Are Head-on Car Accidents So Dangerous?

Head-on crashes generate extreme force, increasing the likelihood of fatal or life-changing injuries. Even at moderate speeds, the impact can cause devastating consequences. Safety features such as airbags and seat belts help, but they can only absorb so much force.

Common Causes of Head-on Car Accidents

Head-on collisions are among the most devastating crashes on the road, and they often stem from driver negligence. Unlike minor fender benders, these crashes occur when vehicles traveling in opposite directions collide, often at high speeds. The impact can be deadly, making it essential to understand the most common causes and how they can be prevented.

Wrong-Way Drivers

One of the leading causes of head-on collisions is drivers traveling in the wrong direction. This happens most frequently on highways, ramps, and one-way streets. A wrong-way driver can enter an interstate or freeway by mistakenly taking an exit ramp, often leading to high-speed crashes with unsuspecting motorists.

Common reasons drivers travel the wrong way include:

• Intoxication – Drunk or drugged drivers often become disoriented and may enter highways incorrectly.
• Distraction – Drivers using their phones or GPS may miss critical signs and end up heading the wrong way.
• Confusion – Elderly drivers or those unfamiliar with the area may misinterpret road signs.

Even a momentary lapse in awareness can result in a devastating head-on crash.

Drowsy Driving

Fatigue affects a driver’s ability to concentrate, react quickly, and stay in their lane. Studies show that drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence. Sleep-deprived drivers may nod off behind the wheel, allowing their vehicle to drift into oncoming traffic.

Factors that contribute to drowsy driving include:

• Driving late at night or early in the morning.
• Long road trips without breaks.
• Sleep disorders like sleep apnea.
• Truck drivers and shift workers driving after extended shifts.

A fatigued driver may not recognize the danger until it’s too late, making head-on crashes a serious risk.

Distracted Driving

With smartphones and in-car entertainment systems, distracted driving has become one of the leading causes of all car accidents, including head-on collisions. Even a few seconds of inattention can result in a driver drifting into opposing lanes.

Common distractions that lead to head-on crashes include:

• Texting while driving – Reading or sending a message takes a driver’s eyes off the road for critical seconds.
• Eating and drinking – Fumbling with food or drinks can cause a driver to lose control.
• GPS and navigation apps – Drivers adjusting their routes may take their eyes off the road, missing lane shifts or upcoming turns.
• Passengers and in-car activities – Conversations, loud music, or children in the backseat can take a driver’s focus away from the road.

Even momentary distractions can have deadly consequences when they lead to a driver veering into oncoming traffic.

Impaired Driving

Alcohol and drug use severely impact a driver’s reaction time, decision-making, and motor skills. Drunk drivers are far more likely to cause head-on crashes because they struggle to maintain control of their vehicles and often drift out of their lanes.

How impairment contributes to head-on accidents:

• Reduced ability to judge distances and speed.
• Slower reaction time when avoiding obstacles or other vehicles.
• Increased likelihood of falling asleep or blacking out while driving.

Even prescription medications can impair a driver’s ability to react, making it crucial to avoid the road if under the influence of any substance that affects alertness.

Poor Road Conditions and Lack of Signage

Not all head-on crashes result from driver error. In some cases, poorly designed roads, missing signage, or hazardous weather conditions play a role.

Common road-related causes of head-on crashes include:

• Poorly marked lanes – Faded or missing lane markers can confuse drivers, especially at night or in bad weather.
• Lack of road signs – Missing “Do Not Enter” or “Wrong Way” signs can lead to deadly mistakes.
• Construction zones – Sudden detours and unmarked lane shifts may cause drivers to enter opposing lanes.
• Slippery roads – Rain, ice, or oil spills can cause vehicles to skid into oncoming traffic.

When hazardous road conditions contribute to a crash, government entities or contractors responsible for road maintenance may also be liable.

Common Injuries in Head-on Auto Accidents

Head-on car collisions are some of the most dangerous types of crashes due to the force of impact when two vehicles collide at high speeds. These accidents often result in devastating injuries that can change a victim’s life forever. Many survivors require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care. Some injuries may not be immediately obvious but can still cause lasting pain and disability. Understanding the most common injuries in head-on crashes can help victims recognize the severity of their condition and seek appropriate medical and legal assistance.

Severe Traumatic Injuries

The intense impact of a head-on crash can cause extreme physical trauma, often requiring emergency medical intervention, surgeries, and long-term rehabilitation.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)

Even with airbags and seat belts, the force of a head-on collision can cause a victim’s head to strike the dashboard, steering wheel, or window, leading to a traumatic brain injury. TBIs range from mild concussions to severe brain damage that can result in cognitive impairment, memory loss, and difficulty with speech or motor functions. In some cases, TBIs may not present immediate symptoms, but over time, victims may experience dizziness, headaches, mood swings, and concentration issues.

Spinal Cord Damage and Paralysis

The spinal cord is highly vulnerable in high-impact crashes. A head-on collision can cause sudden, violent movement of the neck and back, leading to spinal cord injuries. Depending on the severity, victims may experience chronic pain, nerve damage, or even paralysis. Complete spinal cord injuries can result in total loss of function below the injury site, while incomplete injuries may cause limited mobility, loss of sensation, or weakness in affected areas.

Internal Injuries and Organ Damage

Blunt force trauma from a head-on collision can damage internal organs such as the liver, spleen, lungs, or kidneys. Internal bleeding is especially dangerous because symptoms may not be immediately apparent, leading to life-threatening complications if left untreated. Victims experiencing abdominal pain, dizziness, or difficulty breathing should seek medical attention immediately. Emergency surgery is often required to repair internal injuries and prevent further complications.

Bone Fractures

The extreme force of a head-on crash can easily cause broken bones, particularly in the legs, arms, ribs, pelvis, and collarbones. Victims who brace for impact often suffer broken wrists or forearms, while those seated in the front may experience leg and knee fractures due to impact with the dashboard. Broken ribs can be especially dangerous as they may puncture internal organs, causing additional complications. Some fractures require surgery, physical therapy, and extended recovery periods, making daily activities challenging for months or even years.

Soft Tissue and Emotional Trauma

Not all injuries from a head-on collision are immediately visible, but they can still have long-lasting effects on a victim’s health and well-being.

Whiplash and Soft Tissue Damage

Whiplash is one of the most common injuries in head-on crashes, even at lower speeds. The sudden back-and-forth motion of the neck can strain muscles, tendons, and ligaments, leading to stiffness, pain, and limited mobility. Soft tissue injuries also occur in the shoulders, back, and joints, causing discomfort that may last for weeks or months. While these injuries may not be life-threatening, they can significantly impact a victim’s ability to work and perform daily activities.

Psychological Trauma and Emotional Distress

Surviving a head-on collision can leave victims with significant emotional and psychological trauma. Many experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and recurring nightmares. Some victims develop a fear of driving or being in a car, making it difficult to return to normal life. Counseling and therapy are often necessary to help accident victims cope with the psychological impact of such a traumatic event.

Long-Term Consequences of Head-On Collision Injuries

Beyond the immediate physical and emotional trauma, injuries from head-on crashes can have lasting consequences that affect a victim’s financial stability and quality of life.

• Chronic Pain and Limited Mobility: Many injuries, such as spinal damage or fractures, result in long-term pain that affects daily activities. Some victims may require lifelong physical therapy or even mobility aids.
• Inability to Work or Earn Income: Severe injuries may prevent victims from returning to their previous job or working at all, leading to financial strain. Lost wages and reduced earning capacity can create long-term financial challenges for victims and their families.
• Ongoing Medical Costs: From surgeries to rehabilitation and ongoing medical treatments, the costs associated with head-on collision injuries can be overwhelming. Many victims face years of medical bills, making it critical to seek full compensation for these expenses.

Head-on collision victims should never have to bear the financial burden of another driver’s negligence.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Head-On Collision?

Determining liability in a head-on collision is crucial for victims seeking compensation. While driver negligence is the leading cause of these crashes, other factors—such as hazardous road conditions or vehicle defects—can also contribute. In some cases, multiple parties may share responsibility, making legal representation essential for a thorough investigation.

Liability in a head-on crash is based on negligence, meaning a party’s reckless or careless actions directly caused the accident. Understanding who is at fault can significantly impact the outcome of an injury claim or lawsuit. Below, we break down the most common liable parties in head-on collisions.

When the Other Driver Is at Fault

In most head-on collisions, one driver’s negligence is the primary cause. A driver can be held liable if they fail to follow traffic laws or engage in reckless behavior that leads to the crash.

Common Forms of Driver Negligence Leading to Head-On Collisions

• Wrong-Way Driving – A driver enters the wrong lane due to distraction, intoxication, or confusion, causing a direct impact with an oncoming vehicle.
• Distracted Driving – Texting, adjusting a GPS, or eating can cause a driver to veer into oncoming traffic. Even a brief lapse in attention can result in a deadly crash.
• Speeding and Reckless Driving – High-speed crashes increase the severity of injuries, especially on highways and freeways. Reckless maneuvers like improper passing can force drivers into opposing lanes.
• Driving Under the Influence (DUI) – Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, reaction time, and coordination, often leading to wrong-way crashes and lane departures.
• Fatigue or Drowsy Driving – Sleep-deprived drivers may fall asleep at the wheel, causing their vehicle to drift into opposing traffic. Studies show that drowsy driving is as dangerous as drunk driving.
• Failing to Yield or Ignoring Traffic Signs – Running a red light, missing a “Do Not Enter” sign, or failing to yield at an intersection can result in a head-on collision.

Proving Liability Against a Negligent Driver

When another driver is at fault, evidence is crucial in proving their negligence. Strong evidence may include:

• Police Reports detailing the accident scene and any citations issued.
• Witness Statements from bystanders or other drivers who saw the crash.
• Traffic Camera or Dashcam Footage capturing the moment of impact.
• Cell Phone Records to prove distracted driving.
• Toxicology Reports showing drug or alcohol impairment.

If the at-fault driver’s negligence is proven, their insurance company is responsible for compensating victims for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

When Poor Road Conditions or Signage Contribute to the Crash

Not all head-on collisions are caused by driver error. Sometimes, hazardous road conditions, missing signs, or poor highway design play a role. In these cases, a government entity or contractor responsible for road maintenance may be held liable.

Common Road-Related Causes of Head-On Collisions

• Faded or Missing Lane Markings – Without clear dividing lines, drivers may unintentionally cross into oncoming traffic, especially at night or in poor weather.
• Confusing or Missing Traffic Signs – Missing or blocked “One Way”, “Do Not Enter”, or “Wrong Way” signs can cause drivers to enter roadways incorrectly.
• Construction Zones with Poor Signage – Roadwork can create sudden lane shifts or detours that confuse drivers and force them into oncoming traffic.
• Potholes or Road Hazards – Large potholes, debris, or sudden drops in pavement can cause a driver to swerve into opposing lanes.
• Dangerous Intersections or Roadway Designs – Some intersections or highways lack proper barriers, increasing the risk of a head-on crash when a driver veers off course.

Who Can Be Held Liable for Unsafe Road Conditions?

If poor road conditions contributed to a head-on crash, a city, state, or federal agency responsible for road maintenance may be held accountable. However, suing a government entity involves complex legal procedures and strict deadlines under sovereign immunity laws. Victims typically must file a claim within six months to one year, depending on local laws.

To prove a government entity’s liability, evidence must show:

• The hazard existed long enough that officials should have fixed it.
• The road violated safety regulations or lacked proper warning signs.
• The government was aware of the hazard but failed to correct it.

If a construction company failed to properly mark a work zone or created an unsafe road design, they may also share liability for the crash.

Can Auto Manufacturers Be Liable for Defective Vehicles?

In some cases, a mechanical failure or defective vehicle component may contribute to a head-on collision. If a brake failure, steering malfunction, or faulty airbag caused or worsened the crash, the automaker or parts manufacturer could be held liable under product liability laws.

Common Vehicle Defects That Can Lead to Head-On Crashes

• Brake Failures – Defective brakes prevent a driver from stopping in time, leading to an unavoidable collision.
• Steering System Defects – Malfunctions in power steering or steering column failures can cause loss of control.
• Accelerator or Throttle Malfunctions – A stuck accelerator can make it impossible for a driver to slow down or avoid a crash.
• Tire Blowouts or Defective Tires – A sudden blowout can cause a vehicle to swerve into oncoming traffic.
• Airbag Failures or Seatbelt Defects – If an airbag fails to deploy, injuries may be far more severe.

Proving Manufacturer Liability in a Defective Vehicle Claim

To hold an automaker or parts manufacturer responsible, a victim must prove:

• The vehicle had a defect in design or manufacturing.
• The defect directly caused the accident or made injuries worse.
• The driver was using the vehicle as intended when the defect occurred.

These cases often require expert testimony from engineers and accident reconstruction specialists to demonstrate that a defect—not driver error—caused the crash. Victims may file a product liability lawsuit against the automaker, parts manufacturer, or dealership that sold a defective vehicle.

Why Determining Liability Matters in a Head-On Collision Case

Identifying the liable party in a head-on collision is essential for securing full compensation. The at-fault driver, government agencies, or vehicle manufacturers may be responsible for paying damages. However, proving fault requires strong evidence, expert analysis, and aggressive legal representation.

At King Personal Injury, we conduct thorough investigations to determine who is responsible for your crash. Whether another driver’s negligence, hazardous road conditions, or a defective vehicle caused the collision, our legal team fights for maximum compensation.

How the King Law Firm Can Get You the Compensation You Deserve

A head-on collision can leave victims facing overwhelming medical expenses, lost income, and emotional trauma. At King Personal Injury, we understand the challenges our clients face and fight tirelessly to secure the compensation they need to move forward. Our firm has recovered millions for car accident victims, helping them cover medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages.

From the moment you contact us, we take a hands-on approach to your case. We gather crucial evidence, negotiate aggressively with insurance companies, and prepare to go to trial if necessary. Our attorneys assess the full impact of your injuries, considering future medical care, lost earning potential, and pain and suffering. Whether through settlement negotiations or courtroom litigation, we do everything possible to maximize your compensation.

Serving Communities in Ventura, Los Angeles, Northridge and More

King Personal Injury serves clients across Southern California, including Ventura, Los Angeles, Northridge, and the surrounding areas. Whether your accident happened on a local street or a major freeway, our attorneys are ready to assist. We offer in-person consultations at our offices, as well as virtual appointments for those unable to travel due to their injuries. Wherever you are, our team is prepared to fight for your rights.

Comprehensive Legal Support

Unlike some law firms that simply process claims, we provide full-scale legal support to guide you through every step of your recovery. We go beyond filing paperwork and negotiating settlements, we coordinate medical care, help with vehicle repairs, and ensure that you receive the treatment you need.

Our team assists with:

• Gathering medical records and accident reports to strengthen your case.
• Working with accident reconstruction experts to prove liability.
• Connecting clients with top medical specialists for necessary treatment.
• Handling all communication with insurance companies to prevent lowball offers.

At King Personal Injury, we make sure no detail is overlooked, so you can focus on healing while we fight for your financial recovery.

Fighting For Maximum Compensation for Your Car Crash Injuries

Head-on collisions often result in life-altering injuries, leaving victims with long-term disabilities, overwhelming medical bills, and financial uncertainty. At King Personal Injury, we fight aggressively to secure the full compensation our clients deserve. Medical expenses can quickly add up, from emergency treatment and hospital stays to surgeries, physical therapy, and ongoing care.

Many victims are unable to return to work, leading to lost wages and diminished earning capacity. We pursue compensation to cover these financial losses, ensuring that our clients are not burdened with expenses caused by someone else’s negligence. Our goal is to secure the maximum compensation possible, so victims can focus on healing without the added stress of financial hardship.

Contingency Based Practice – No Fees Unless You Win Your Case

Many accident victims worry about the cost of hiring an attorney, especially while dealing with medical bills and lost income. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis—meaning you pay nothing upfront. Our firm only collects fees if we win your case, ensuring that every victim has access to top-tier legal representation without financial risk.

If we don’t win, you don’t pay. It’s that simple.

Bilingual Personal Injury Law Firm

At King Personal Injury, we believe that every client deserves clear communication and compassionate legal support. Language barriers should never stand in the way of justice. Our bilingual attorneys and staff provide legal assistance in both English and Spanish, making it easier for all accident victims to:

• Fully understand their rights and legal options.
• Express their concerns without miscommunication.
• Receive legal support tailored to their needs.

No matter what your preferred language is, we are here to advocate for you and ensure your voice is heard.

Contact Our Award-Winning Personal Injury Car Accident Lawyers at the King Law Firm Today for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been injured in a head-on collision, securing legal representation as soon as possible can make all the difference in your case. At King Personal Injury, we are committed to fighting for accident victims, ensuring they receive the compensation they need to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional suffering. Our legal team will thoroughly investigate your case, gather critical evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies to maximize your settlement. If necessary, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial to secure the justice you deserve.

You don’t have to navigate this process alone. We offer free, no-obligation consultations, giving you the opportunity to understand your legal rights and explore your options. With our contingency-based practice, you pay nothing upfront – we only get paid if we win your case. Call King Personal Injury today at (805) 721-3721 or visit our contact page to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward rebuilding your life after a devastating accident.