I've been to South cebtral before. It's workable during the day, but you sure don't want to have to layover. Vernon or Maywood might actually be slightly safer, even though it is run down. It's all industrial there. Norwalk would be a better overnight. If coming from the south, just make your sleep time in Orange County. City of orange or Anaheim will be decent without having too many restrictions.
That truck is crazy!