According to the NHTSA, about 35% of fatal motorcycle crashes in the U.S. happen at intersections. For riders, these crashes are especially dangerous because they almost always involve another vehicle: a driver turning left, running a red light, or failing to yield. Nearly two-thirds of motorcycle-car crashes stem from drivers violating a rider’s right of way, according to the landmark Hurt Report — making intersections especially dangerous and a frequent focus in injury claims.
At Buchanan, Williams & O’Brien, we’ve seen firsthand how devastating these collisions can be, where a single intersection can change a rider’s life. Our motorcycle accident attorneys in Missouri handle cases across St. Louis, Springfield, and Joplin. Knowing the most dangerous locations helps riders stay alert — and if the worst happens, we’re here to guide your family and connect you with the resources you need.
St. Louis Hot Spots for Motorcycle Accidents
With dense traffic and multiple high-speed roadways, riders in the St. Louis metro must use extra caution. These intersections consistently rank among the most dangerous in the St. Louis area:
- Kingshighway Boulevard is a major north-south corridor where heavy traffic leads to frequent crashes.
- Jefferson Avenue & Martin Luther King Jr. Drive is known for dangerous left turns and blind spots.
- Grand Boulevard is a busy crossing with other major streets that sees many collisions.
Springfield’s High-Risk Intersections
Springfield’s mix of heavy traffic, complex intersections, and high-speed roads creates a challenging environment for motorcyclists. These conditions increase the likelihood of accidents, making these intersections particularly perilous, including:
- National Avenue & Kearney Street – This intersection has been the site of multiple serious crashes, including a fatal collision in December 2023.
- Battlefield Road & Campbell Avenue – In October 2023, a crash here resulted in one motorcyclist’s death and injuries to two others.
- Battlefield Road & Kimbrough Avenue – A fatal hit-and-run involving a motorcyclist occurred at this location in May 2023.
- Glenstone Avenue & Grand Avenue – A motorcyclist died following a collision with a car here in September 2023.
- S. 65 & Sunshine Street – This high-risk intersection has heavy traffic and tricky turns. The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) has proposed improvements, including signal upgrades, intersection modifications, and resurfacing, to make it safer for drivers and motorcyclists.
Dangerous Intersections in Joplin
Even outside the largest metros, riders face serious hazards. These Joplin corridors see constant congestion, making them especially dangerous for motorcyclists:
- E 7th Street (US-66) & South Rangeline (US-66 / Business 44): A motorcycle rear-ended a car on West 7th Street, resulting in serious injuries to the rider.
- E 32nd Street (FF Highway) & South Rangeline (Business 44): This intersection and nearby streets are high-risk for motorcyclists. On April 2, 2021, a crash in this area resulted in a motorcyclist’s death and critical injuries to the other driver.
- Main Street & 7th Street (US-66): This stretch of Joplin combines heavy traffic, nearby businesses, and frequent turning vehicles, making it a higher-risk area for motorcyclists. Most recently, a motorcyclist broke both arms after rear-ending a car.
Kansas City and Other Missouri Danger Zones
Kansas City is home to several intersections known for frequent motorcycle crashes:
- I-435 & I-70: High traffic volume and complex interchanges lead to accidents.
- Oak Street & Truman Road: This intersection has seen a high number of crash injuries in Kansas City, making it particularly hazardous for motorcyclists.
- Prospect Avenue & 63rd Street: Characterized by tight corners and significant pedestrian traffic, contributing to frequent side-impact collisions.
- Bannister Road & 71 Highway: Aggressive freeway speeds and short turn pockets lead to frequent T-bone impacts during rush hour.
- Southwest Trafficway & Westport Road: This complex junction of multiple roads can confuse drivers and increase the risk of collisions. Poor road conditions, including worn pavement and unclear lane markings, have contributed to crashes, including one that ejected a law enforcement officer from his motorcycle.
Other Missouri Cities
- SR-13 & SR-123: Located in a non-metro area, this intersection is specifically cited in a study for a high volume of fatal crashes.
- E Stadium Boulevard & I-70 (Columbia): This busy interchange in Columbia sees a high volume of traffic, merging lanes, and complex turns that cause accidents.
How a Missouri Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help
Even the most careful riders can’t control reckless or distracted drivers. When motorcycle accidents in intersections result in serious injury or a fatal accident, families face medical bills, lost income, and grief.
The experienced team at Buchanan, Williams & O’Brien fights for injured riders and their loved ones. Whether you need an experienced Missouri motorcycle accident lawyer to recover damages or a wrongful death attorney after a tragic loss, our firm provides compassionate guidance and strong legal representation.
With offices in St. Louis, Springfield, and Joplin, BWO attorneys are ready to protect your rights wherever you ride in Missouri. Schedule a free consultation today.