The Barnes Firm

Los Angeles Fire Causing Traffic Mayhem

• December 19, 2017
• Sandy

LOS ANGELES – A Los Angeles car accident attorney is warning drivers to expect more traffic – and accidents – as wildfires continue to encroach on Southern California communities, towns and the city of Los Angeles.

Officials ordered more evacuations on Wednesday as a handful of wildfires blaze across the LA-area. The biggest of which is the Thomas Fire, a 450-acre blaze that is threatening homes and businesses in Ventura County. As of Thursday afternoon, the wildfire was only 5% contained.

Another fire has already destroyed a handful of Bel-Air mansions and threatened the priceless Getty Center arts gallery. In addition to the physical damage, some of the wildfires threatened roadways, causing several street and highway closures.

The Skirball fire forced officials to close down part of Interstate 405, a major Los Angeles artery, causing a cascade effect on traffic in the area.

“Closing major routes force more trucks and cars onto smaller routes they usually don’t take,” Los Angeles car accident attorney John Sheehan said. “Accidents always rise when traffic gets congested; add unfamiliarity and frustration to the mix, and mistakes can happen.”

Los Angeles car accident lawyers at The Barnes Firm are now urging commuters in the LA-area to be mindful of changing traffic patterns and plan their route before getting on the road.

“It’s always important to know where you’re going,” Sheehan said. “Even the added confidence can make you a safer and more alert driver.”

Of course, not all drivers are prepared. Since the fires have grown, there have been several accidents on major routes. On the 405, drivers were even spotted using their phones to take pictures and/or video of the wildfire — while driving (distracted driving is the top cause of accidents in LA).

With tensions high and distractions up, drivers could easily find themselves in a car accident. While most accidents are minor, some can cause serious bodily damage, including neck pains, back pains, leg pains, or severe injuries such as concussions and broken bones.

If you or a family member has recently been injured in a car crash, it’s important to talk to a Los Angeles car accident lawyer for FREE. At The Barnes Firm, our experienced attorneys will take your call and answer any legal questions you may have for FREE. Available 24/7.

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