The Most Dangerous Roads to Drive in Chatsworth, California 

Locations with the Most Fatal Crashes   

Drawing from data provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) and SWITRS, Chatsworth has experienced several fatal crashes over the past few years many involving high speeds, single-vehicle rollovers, and dangerous curves along roads like Santa Susana Pass Road and near SR-118. These tragedies are a sobering reminder of the risks drivers face on local roads. 

 The Law Offices of Michelle Choe stands with grieving families, offering compassionate legal guidance to help them navigate the aftermath of such devastating losses. If your loved one was involved in a fatal accident on these Chatsworth roads or in a surrounding area, reach out today by calling 323-612-5002. 

Most Common Causes of Accidents in Chatsworth 

While no single factor causes crashes in Chatsworth, a combination of geographic, behavioral, and infrastructure-related risks contribute to the area’s consistently high accident rate. According to data from SWITRS and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the top contributing factors include speeding (27.4%), distracted driving (12.9%), traffic signal violations (33.97% of severe crashes), and right-of-way violations (23.72%). Below is a breakdown of the most significant crash contributors in the area: 

Freeway Proximity and Commuter Traffic 

Chatsworth’s location along the SR-118 (Ronald Reagan Freeway) and its access to I-5 puts it at the center of daily commuter flow. Intersections near freeway ramps, such as SR-118 & De Soto Avenue, are especially prone to crashes due to high-speed merging, sudden lane changes, and limited visibility. These areas experience more severe collisions compared to more grid-like urban road networks in central Los Angeles. 

Suburban-Commercial Mix 

Unlike fully residential neighborhoods, Chatsworth features a unique blend of suburban roads and commercial centers. Busy intersections like Topanga Canyon Blvd & Devonshire Street, near shopping hubs such as Chatsworth Marketplace, see frequent collisions involving pedestrians and cyclists. These zones have higher traffic volumes and foot activity, increasing the likelihood of right-of-way and signal-related violations. 

Topography and Road Design 

Chatsworth's hilly terrain and winding roads, especially near Santa Susana Pass and Woolsey Canyon Road, create unique risks for drivers. These roads often lack sufficient shoulder space and are poorly lit, increasing the chances of rollovers and high-speed single-vehicle crashes. A serious collision on July 19, 2025, at Woolsey Canyon Rd & Rocky Mesa Pl underscored the danger posed by narrow, curved stretches of roadway. 

Distracted Driving Prevalence 

Distracted driving is a rising concern across California, with 12.9% of all crashes linked to inattention. In Chatsworth, this issue is especially pronounced in busy commuter corridors like Topanga Canyon Blvd & Lassen Street, where long commutes and stop-and-go traffic often lead to dangerous lapses in attention. 

Pedestrian and Cyclist Risks 

Chatsworth’s suburban layout includes fewer protected bike lanes and pedestrian crossings than other parts of Los Angeles. Intersections like Devonshire Street & Canoga Avenue are particularly dangerous for non-motorists. In 2020, Los Angeles County reported 1,043 pedestrian fatalities, and suburban zones like Chatsworth contributed to this number due to limited infrastructure in high-traffic areas. 

Alcohol-Related Crashes 

Los Angeles County had the highest number of alcohol-related serious and fatal crashes in California in 2024, totaling 1,329 incidents. Chatsworth, with its mix of residential housing, nightlife proximity, and freeway access, sees a disproportionate number of late-night DUI-related crashes, especially along SR-118. 

Hit-and-Run Incidents 

The urban anonymity of driving in Los Angeles County often extends into Chatsworth. On streets like Nordhoff Street, hit-and-run accidents are not uncommon, particularly in minor collisions where drivers choose to flee rather than face legal consequences. This mirrors similar patterns seen in nearby areas like Glendale, which reported 42 injury or fatal hit-and-run cases in 2021. 

When Accidents are Most Likely to Occur

Traffic collisions in Chatsworth follow clear daily patterns, with the majority occurring during morning (7:00–9:00 AM) and evening (4:00–7:00 PM) rush hours. These periods align with peak commuter movement, where congestion, impatience, and frequent stops create ideal conditions for rear-end collisions and intersection-related crashes. 

However, a second, and often more severe, wave of accidents happens between 6:00 PM and midnight, when alcohol-impaired driving becomes a significant factor. According to statewide data, 16.03% of serious crashes during this window involve alcohol, making late-night travel especially dangerous. For commuters, rideshare drivers, and night-shift workers passing through busy corridors like SR-118 or Topanga Canyon Blvd, this timeframe demands heightened awareness and caution. 

How to Stay Safe on the Road in Chatsworth and What to Do After an Accident 

To stay safe while driving in Chatsworth, it's essential to stay alert in high-risk areas like Topanga Canyon Blvd, Devonshire St, and near SR-118 freeway ramps, especially during rush hours and late-night hours when crash rates spike. Avoid distractions like texting, follow posted speed limits and yield properly at busy intersections. If you are involved in an accident, move to a safe location, check for injuries, and call 911 if needed. Exchange information with the other party and document the scene with photos. Then, contact the Law Offices of Michelle Choe. Whether you’re dealing with property damage, injuries, or insurance disputes, Attorney Michelle Choe offers compassionate, knowledgeable legal help and speaks fluent Korean, providing culturally sensitive support for Korean-speaking clients.