Car accident fatalities remain a significant concern in Kansas City, with 95 lives lost in crashes in 2024, according to the Kansas City Police Department. Efforts to improve road safety continue to be a priority for the city as officials analyze accident data and implement measures to reduce these tragedies.
A significant number of these accidents happen at just a handful of intersections across the city. This is why knowing your city and practicing safe driving is important.
Raising awareness about Kansas City’s most dangerous intersections is not just a matter of curiosity—it’s a key to preventing accidents and protecting lives. Whether commuting to work, running errands, or simply exploring the city, knowing where to exercise extra caution can make all the difference.
What Makes Intersections Dangerous?
Understanding the key factors that contribute to hazardous intersections can help drivers stay aware and take precautions.  
- Traffic Congestion: Heavy traffic increases the likelihood of accidents due to reduced space and reaction time.  
- Distracted Drivers: Drivers who are not fully focused on the road create an unsafe environment on the road.  
- Limited Visibility: Parked vehicles, blockages, and poor lighting can make it difficult to see other cars or pedestrians.  
- Confusing Traffic Patterns: Intersections with unclear markings or confusing layouts can cause hesitation and errors.
Learn about Missouri’s Hands-Free Cell Phone Law.

The 8 Most Dangerous Intersections in Kansas City
- I-435 & I-70  
I-435 and I-70 are among the most dangerous intersections in Kansas City due to their frequent congestion caused by heavy traffic near Arrowhead Field and Kauffman Stadium. There are also complex highway interchanges that often confuse drivers. Poor visibility during busy times makes it even harder and increases the risk of accidents.
- US 71 (Bruce Watkins Drive) & Gregory Blvd.  
Frequent congestion due to heavy commuter traffic, confusing highway interchanges, and poor visibility during peak hours contribute to significant challenges on US 71 and Gregory Blvd. High-speed traffic makes merging dangerous, while poorly timed signals frustrate drivers.
- 23rd Street & I-435  
The intersection at 23rd Street and I-435 includes some sharp turns and abrupt merging, which often causes accidents. Heavy truck traffic further increases the risk for smaller vehicles.
- Prospect Avenue & 63rd Street  
Accidents at Prospect Avenue & 63rd Street are often caused by sharp turns, abrupt merging, and high truck traffic. These hazards are compounded by tight corners, poor visibility, heavy pedestrian activity, and inadequate signage or mismatched traffic signal timing.
- 31st Street & Van Brunt Boulevard 
The intersection of 31st Street and Van Brunt Boulevard is known for its confusing layout. Additionally, the proximity to residential neighborhoods increases pedestrian and cyclist activity, compounding the safety concerns for all road users.
- Bannister Road & 71 Hwy  
The intersection at Bannister Road and 71 Hwy can be risky for drivers due to its merging lanes. Combined with distracted drivers and high-speed traffic flows, the risk of severe accidents increases.
- 87th Street & I-435  
87th Street & I-435 are particularly risky due to rapidly changing traffic patterns, limited spacing between exits, and frequent weather-related hazards, such as slick roads.
- Ward Parkway & 75th Street  
The intersection at Ward Parkway and 75th Street presents several challenges that demand heightened driver attentiveness. High pedestrian activity, coupled with increased traffic volumes from nearby businesses and residential areas, creates a bustling and often chaotic environment. Additionally, poorly marked crosswalks and signals make navigation difficult, further intensifying the risks for both drivers and pedestrians.
Common Causes of Car Accidents at Intersections
There are many reasons why these popular intersections have frequent crashes in them, including:
- Tailgating
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Distracted driving
- Aggressive driving or speeding
Common Injuries from Car Accidents
Whether at low speed or high speed, you can suffer catastrophic injuries from a car wreck. It’s important to seek medical treatment after a car accident to start the healing process as soon as possible.
- Whiplash
- Broken bones  
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
Read More: Common Injuries from Car Accidents
Hurt in a Car Accident? Mike’s Got This!
Have you been injured in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence? Contact one of our expert Kansas City car accident attorneys from DM Injury Law. Located at 46th and Madison, our law firm is on your side during this challenging time.
Schedule a free consultation with us today. We are a contingency-fee-based firm, which means you don’t have to pay unless we win.