Overnight Rains Create Dangerous Driving Conditions

A night of rain created slippery and dangerous conditions for morning commuters throughout Southern California, who found themselves in a number of accidents across multiple highways.

The eastbound 60 Freeway saw the most trouble, as a SigAlert was put into effect for several hours following two related accidents. The first took place at around 3 a.m. at the interchange to the 71 Freeway, according to the California Highway Patrol, where the driver of an empty car hauler allegedly fell asleep at the wheel and crashed into the back of a tractor trailer.

While the wreck was still in active lanes, another accident occurred between an SUV and a small Kia sedan as the two vehicles attempted to avoid the crash site. Fortunately, only one driver involved suffered minor injuries, the rest were unhurt.

The crash forced the highway down to a single lane as crews worked to remove the crashed vehicles from lanes. A crane was needed on the scene to remove the trailer portion of the tractor-trailer, as it had been separated from the rest of the vehicle in the collision. All lanes were finally reopened just before 8 a.m., almost five hours after the two crashes took place.

Meanwhile, a big rig caused another major traffic backup in Downey after it lost control and jackknifed on the transition from the southbound 605 to the westbound 105 freeway, leading to a SigAlert expected to last well into the morning commute hours, causing major slowing for the 5 and 605 freeways.

Fortunately, the National Weather Service has forecasted mostly cloudy conditions with only a slight chance of showers throughout the day, though substantial rains are expected against overnight and into Friday. In coastal areas, up to a third of an inch of rain could fall, and the mountain areas could receive as much as an inch.

A winter storm watch is set to go into effect late Thursday through Friday evening for the mountains of Los Angeles and Ventura. Above 4,000 feet, another storm warning will be in effect for Riverside and San Bernardino counties. Between 4 and 8 inches of snow could fall above 4,000 feet, according to the NWS, and as much as a foot could fall above 6,000.

In these wet weather conditions, it is important to drive cautiously, understanding the dangers and the major reduction in traction. For drivers who fall victim to accidents as a result of other drivers who fail to understand these dangers, there are legal options available to help them get what they need to recover from their injuries.

Through the help of a skilled car accident lawyer, compensation can be recovered from those at fault to help get victims back onto their feet. At AA Accident Attorneys, we will work hard to get you the results you deserve. Call us today for a free evaluation and to learn what a Los Angeles car accident lawyer can do for you!

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