The Most Dangerous Roads in Kansas City & Tips to Stay Safe While Driving

Today, let’s talk about a serious matter: the most dangerous roads in Kansas City. From January to March of 2022, car accident fatalities more than doubled compared to the same time frame in 2021. At Telle Tire, we see it all—some fender benders, and others, more serious accidents. That’s why we wanted to take a moment to drive home the importance of road safety with you. Keep reading to learn about some accident-prone areas to avoid when driving, and discover a few practical tips to protect yourself, and others, on the road.

Places with the Most Traffic Accidents in KC

If you’ve been driving around Kansas City for a while, you’ve probably got a mental list of places you’d rather avoid. Here are some spots that are notorious for traffic accidents:

Interstate 29 at Barry Road

In the northern part of the city, you’ll come across Interstate 29 at Barry Road. This intersection, known as a “cloverleaf,” can be quite problematic when traffic gets heavy. In short, cloverleaf interchange ramps pose a higher risk of head-on collisions, mainly because making left turns becomes more challenging.

To execute these turns, drivers have to cross over the exit lane to reach the entrance lane, which sometimes leads to unintentional entry into the exit lane. Collisions often happen with vehicles exiting the freeway or, in more severe cases, when drivers mistakenly enter the freeway against the flow of traffic.

Cloverleaf intersection at I-29 and Barry Rd.

Interstate 70 and I-435 interchange

Moving on, we have the interchange between Interstate 70 and I-435. Any KC local will tell you it’s the worst to drive, with cars darting in and out and lanes, merging left and right. It’s no wonder many folks opt to steer clear whenever possible. However, the dangers on the I-70 and I-435 interchange aren’t exclusively reserved for car-to-car collisions.

Just take January 17, 2024, as an example. A tractor trailer lost sheet metal and other metal parts on the highway shortly before 10 a.m. The congestion caused such a mess near the stadiums that crews had to completely shut down that section of I-70.

Interchange at I-70 and I-435.

Interstate 435 at Front Street

Of course, we can’t forget about Interstate 435 at Front Street. You’ve probably noticed this bridge setup, with Front Street intersecting and lanes crisscrossing in different directions. During rush hours it’s one of the busiest areas in town, and if you’re not attentive, things can get pretty dangerous, pretty fast.

I-435 overpass with the Front Street criss-crossing underneath.

5 Tips to Stay Safe While Driving

Look, we get it. Sometimes you can’t avoid traveling on these roads. In that case, here’s a few tips to stay safe when driving:

Always Wear Your Seatbelt

Let’s start with the basics: always buckle up. Seatbelts are your best defense in case of a collision, and they can mean the difference between walking away unscathed and suffering serious injuries. It’s a simple habit that could save your life.

Put Down Your Phone

We live in an age where our smartphones are practically glued to our hands, but when you’re behind the wheel, it’s crucial to keep your focus on the road ahead. Resist the temptation to check your texts, emails, or social media notifications while driving. Remember, no text or call is worth risking your safety – or the safety of others on the road.

Monitor & Replace Worn Tires

Tire maintenance often gets overlooked, but it’s a critical aspect of road safety. Check your tires regularly for signs of wear and tear, like uneven tread or cracks in the rubber. If your tires are looking worse for wear, don’t hesitate to replace them. Good traction is essential for maintaining control of your vehicle, especially in adverse weather conditions.

Stay on Top of Auto Maintenance

Routine maintenance is key to keeping your car running smoothly and safely. From regular oil changes to brake inspections, staying proactive with maintenance can help prevent mechanical issues that could lead to accidents down the road. Don’t wait until something goes wrong – take care of your car, and it’ll take care of you.

Drive Smart, Stay Safe: Schedule Auto Maintenance Before It’s Too Late!

Sure, driving can be dangerous. But here’s a secret: by following these safety precautions and staying proactive with maintenance, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents.

So, don’t wait for a breakdown or an accident to prioritize auto maintenance. At Telle Tire, we make it convenient to schedule tune-ups and servicing to keep your vehicle in top condition. Visit our Kansas City locations for standard service, oil changes, tire rotations, brake repairs, and more.