Car accidents are expensive, not just in terms of medical bills and car repairs, but also in lost wages, emotional trauma, and long-term recovery. In 2025, California drivers and passengers are facing some of the highest costs in the nation after a crash. But the true price of an accident depends on where it happens. From Los Angeles to Fresno, the cost of being in a collision varies widely. Here’s a city-by-city breakdown of what victims in California are paying in 2025.

Los Angeles

As California’s largest city, Los Angeles sees the highest overall accident costs. In 2025, the average serious injury accident in LA costs victims more than $85,000, factoring in hospital stays, rehabilitation, and lost income. Traffic congestion and high rates of distracted driving mean longer recovery times and more complex claims.

San Diego

San Diego drivers face average accident costs of about $72,000 in 2025. DUI-related accidents drive this number up, as drunk driving incidents often result in catastrophic injuries. Victims frequently need long-term care, especially in cases involving pedestrians and motorcyclists.

San Francisco

San Francisco is one of the most expensive cities in California for car accident victims, with averages close to $95,000 in 2025. The city’s dense traffic, high pedestrian activity, and costly medical care all contribute to higher financial burdens. Wrongful death cases in San Francisco also average larger settlements due to higher living costs.

Sacramento

In Sacramento, the average cost of a serious accident in 2025 is around $68,000. Many accidents involve commuters on the Capital City Freeway, where pileups and rear-end collisions are common. Medical facilities in Sacramento report longer recovery times for crash victims compared to state averages.

Fresno

Fresno’s accident costs are slightly lower than the state’s big cities, averaging $55,000 in 2025. However, truck accidents on CA-99 often lead to costs much higher than average, with some families facing six-figure medical bills.

Bakersfield

In Bakersfield, serious accidents average about $58,000 in costs. High truck traffic and rural freeway conditions mean accidents often involve larger vehicles, which leads to severe injuries and long-term care needs.

Riverside

Riverside drivers face average accident costs of about $62,000 in 2025. Many accidents occur on the 91 and 215 freeways, where heavy commuter traffic increases both crash frequency and severity.

Why the Costs Differ by City

Several factors explain these differences. Cities with denser populations and higher living costs see larger medical bills and wage loss calculations. Areas with more truck traffic or DUI crashes also generate higher injury costs. Insurance practices can vary by county, adding another layer of complexity.

What Victims Can Do in 2025

After an accident, victims should document all expenses, from emergency care to rehabilitation, and avoid accepting quick settlements from insurers. Many families underestimate the long-term costs of a crash, including therapy, medication, and reduced earning capacity. Consulting a personal injury lawyer ensures all damages are factored into a claim.

Conclusion

The cost of a car accident in California in 2025 depends heavily on where it happens. Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego top the list for highest costs, while Fresno and Bakersfield see slightly lower averages. No matter the city, the financial toll can be overwhelming without legal guidance. At Hillstone Law, we fight to ensure victims across California recover the full compensation they deserve after an accident.