Sherman Oaks, CA – One Killed, Two Injured in Wrong-Way Crash on I-405

Sherman Oaks, CA (February 11, 2024) – A wrong-way driver caused a deadly crash early Tuesday morning, February 11, on Interstate 405 in Sherman Oaks, leaving one person dead and two others hospitalized.

The California Highway Patrol responded to reports of a multi-vehicle collision around 4:06 a.m. on the southbound lanes of the San Diego (405) Freeway near the Valley Vista Boulevard exit. Authorities confirmed that one of the vehicles involved was traveling in the wrong direction when the crash occurred.

Emergency crews arrived to find multiple victims. One person was pronounced dead at the scene, while two others suffered critical injuries and were transported to a nearby hospital. Another individual declined medical treatment.

Officials have not yet released the identity of the deceased, and the circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation.

Our hearts and deepest condolences go out to the families affected by this tragedy.

Wrong-Way Accidents in California

California experiences a significant number of wrong-way crashes each year, many of which result in serious injuries or fatalities. Studies show that most wrong-way accidents occur late at night or early in the morning, often involving impaired or confused drivers. While these types of crashes make up a small percentage of overall collisions, they are among the most dangerous due to the force of head-on impacts.

Understanding why these crashes happen can help raise awareness and prevent future tragedies. Some key factors include:

• Impaired Driving – Alcohol and drug use play a major role in wrong-way accidents, impairing a driver's ability to recognize road signs and stay in the correct lane.
• Driver Confusion – Some wrong-way crashes occur when drivers, especially older individuals or out-of-town visitors, mistakenly enter freeway off-ramps.
• Poor Visibility – Dark road conditions, missing signage, and unclear lane markings can contribute to wrong-way driving incidents.
• Fatigue – Drowsy drivers may become disoriented and inadvertently drive against traffic, increasing the risk of serious collisions.

If you have lost a loved one in a wrong-way crash, it is crucial to contact a Los Angeles wrongful death attorney as soon as possible. These accidents often result in complex legal claims, and families deserve justice and financial support for medical costs, funeral expenses, and other damages.

At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we have been fighting for accident victims and their families since 1979. Our founder, Shawn S. Rokni, Esq., has firsthand knowledge of how insurance companies work, having previously served as a defense attorney for them. Our firm has recovered over $100 million for clients and is dedicated to ensuring families receive the compensation they deserve. Call us today at 844-844-9119 for a free consultation.