Kansas City is full of delicious BBQ, steadfast sports fans, and, let’s face it, bumpy roads. While Kansas City is a wonderful place to live and work, driving on our roads can be frustrating. Between heavy traffic, confusing highway designs, and what feels like never-ending construction, it is understandable why many drivers feel anxious behind the wheel.
Understanding where the risks are located is often the first step toward feeling more confident on the road. By identifying the dangerous intersections in Kansas City, you and your family can feel safer while driving around KCMO.
The 4 Most Dangerous Kansas City Intersections
Reports from the Missouri Highway Patrol have highlighted several areas where car accidents occur more frequently. While accidents can happen anywhere, these specific locations have a history of high collision rates due to traffic volume and road design.
Here are a few dangerous streets in KC where you should stay alert:
US 71 & Gregory Boulevard
Heavy traffic, complex highway designs, and poor visibility during rush hour make the intersection of US 71 and Gregory Blvd particularly hazardous. The combination of high-speed merging and inconsistent signal timing creates a high risk for collisions.
I-435 & I-70
The intersection of I-435 and I-70 is one of Kansas City’s most hazardous intersections, largely due to heavy traffic near Arrowhead and Kauffman Stadiums. The complex layout often confuses drivers, and poor visibility during busy hours further elevates the risk of accidents.
Southwest Trafficway & Westport Road
Locals sometimes refer to this area as the “triangle of death.” The streets meet at odd angles, which makes it hard for both drivers and pedestrians to see what’s coming.
75th Street & Ward Parkway
The intersection at 75th Street and Ward Parkway is a major place for accidents, requiring extra caution from drivers. The area is constantly busy due to the high volume of traffic from surrounding neighborhoods and local shops. This congestion, combined with heavy pedestrian activity and often confusing signage or faded crosswalk markings, creates a high-risk environment where collisions are unfortunately common.
Common Causes of Kansas Car Accidents
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s 2024 report on crash statistics, crashes 34.3% of fatal crashes in Missouri involved speeding, and 23.1% of fatal crashes in Missouri involved alcohol or drugs.
Common causes of crashes in KC include:
- Distracted Driving
- Speeding and Aggressive Driving
- Impaired Driving
- Weather Conditions
- Inexperienced Drivers
- Failing to Yield and Improper Lane Changes
Staying Safe on the Road
While you cannot control other drivers or the design of the roads, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your family.
- Defensive Driving: Always assume other drivers might not see you. Keep a safe following distance, especially in wet weather.
- Slow Down: When approaching known dangerous roads in Kansas City, reduce your speed. This gives you more time to react if a light changes suddenly or a car pulls out in front of you.
- Avoid Distractions: It goes without saying, but keeping your phone down and your eyes up is vital, especially in complex intersections.
- Stay Alert and Sober: Fatigue can be just as dangerous as alcohol. If you’re tired, take a rest or let someone else take the wheel.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Kansas City
If you are involved in a car accident in KCMO, remember to breathe and take it one step at a time.
- Prioritize Safety
- Report to the Police
- Exchange Information
- Take Photos and Collect Evidence
- Get Medical Help
- Call a Lawyer
Continue Reading: What to Do After a Car Accident in Kansas City
We Are Here to Help Kansas City Drivers
You have five years from the date of the accident to file a car accident claim, according to RSMo § 516.120, in Missouri. If you have been injured in an accident, you need someone who understands what you are going through. At The Law Offices of Peter A. Jouras, Jr., we provide a soothing, supportive environment where your voice is heard.
Unlike large firms, where you might get lost in the shuffle, we pride ourselves on providing one-on-one contact with your attorney. With over 25 years of experience as a personal injury attorney, Peter A. Jouras, Jr. knows how to navigate the legal systems in both Kansas and Missouri.
We offer free consultations to help you understand your rights without any financial pressure. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case. You focus on healing, and let us handle the rest.
Contact us online today to schedule a free consultation or call us at (913) 677-1999.
Crossing state lines? Take a look at The Most Dangerous Intersections in Overland Park, KS.
