Navigating St. Louis streets can feel like an obstacle course, especially when passing through some of the city’s most frequented and, therefore, hazardous intersections. According to the 2022 St. Louis City and County Crash Report, 173 people were killed, and nearly 15,000 were injured in car crashes.
Knowing about St. Louis’s most dangerous intersections helps raise awareness of these areas, making the community a safer place. No matter why you’re on the road, be aware of these intersections and proceed cautiously.
Why Are Intersections Dangerous?
Intersections are some of the riskiest places for drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Accidents are far more likely to happen in areas with cars coming from multiple directions, high congestion, and where split-second decisions are required.
Here are some key reasons why intersections can be dangerous:
- Heavy Traffic
- Human Errors
- Confusing Intersections
- Poor Visibility
- Road Hazards
Now, let’s take a closer look at the most dangerous intersections in St. Louis and why they’re notorious for accidents.
The 5 Most Dangerous Intersections in St. Louis
Based on analysis and crash data, the following intersections have consistently ranked as St. Louis’s most hazardous.
1. Kingshighway Blvd & Lindell Blvd
This intersection serves as an entryway to Forest Park, which is frequently flooded with cars, cyclists, walkers with their pets, and more. The congestion and a lack of clear lanes for merging make navigating it particularly difficult, especially during peak traffic hours.
2. S. Kingshighway Blvd & Highway 40 (Interstate 64)
This major intersection, which connects downtown St. Louis to the surrounding neighborhoods, is infamous for its high crash rate. Drivers entering or exiting the highway often face poor visibility, confusing lane changes, and heavy congestion.
3. S. Jefferson Ave, Sidney St & Gravois Ave
This complicated intersection combines multiple streets crossing at sharp angles, which confuses drivers. Many crashes here occur due to misjudged turns or failure to yield.
4. Hampton Avenue & Interstate 64 (Near Oakland Ave)
Merges and lane switches are prominent in this intersection, creating challenges for drivers attempting to enter or leave Hampton Avenue or the highway. With complicated angles and numerous side streets, it’s common for drivers to get confused in this area.
5. Grand Blvd & Interstate 70
Grand Boulevard has consistently been recognized as one of the most dangerous stretches of road in St. Louis. The intersection with I-70, a major arterial road, adds to its infamy. Speeding traffic and clogged roadways lead to severe crashes.
Common Causes of Car Crashes at Intersections
Accidents at intersections can result from various factors, many of which come from driver negligence or infrastructure issues. Some of the most common causes of car accidents in St. Louis’s dangerous intersections include:
- Distracted Driving: Texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting the radio leads drivers to miss critical signals or approaching cars.
- Failing to Yield: Many accidents occur when drivers neglect to yield to the right-of-way, leading to side-impact collisions.
- Running Red Lights: Impatient or inattentive drivers often increase the risk of T-bone accidents by speeding through intersections when the light changes.
- Speeding: Excessive speeds reduce reaction time, making stopping or avoiding other vehicles difficult.
- Improper Turns: Illegal U-turns or failure to signal can easily result in crashes.
- Driving Under the Influence: Drunk driving impairs judgment and reaction time, contributing to dangerous decision-making at intersections.
- Poor Intersection Design: Misaligned lanes, unclear signage, or insufficient traffic lights can create unsafe driving conditions.
Learn about Missouri’s Hands-Free Cell Phone Law.
Injuries You Can Receive from a Car Accident
Accidents at intersections often lead to serious injuries, especially when vehicles are struck from the side. Common injuries include:
- Whiplash
- Cuts and bruises
- Fractures and Broken Bones
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal Cord Injuries
Read More: Common Injuries from Car Accidents
Hurt in a Car Accident? Mike’s Got This!
While avoiding every dangerous intersection is impossible, staying informed and prepared can make your commute in St. Louis safer. By eliminating distractions and obeying traffic laws, you can also help make those around you safer.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, contact our St. Louis car accident attorneys at DM Injury Law for expert guidance. Located on Spruce Street near Busch Stadium, we’re here to help you seek the justice and compensation you deserve.
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.
Travel much? Take a look at the most dangerous intersections in Kansas City.
Want the latest in personal injury updates and news? Sign up for our monthly newsletter.