Missouri’s Most Accident-Prone Roads Revealed
Highway 63 holds the unfortunate title of being Missouri’s most dangerous road, with an average of 15 fatal accidents each year. However, multiple other highways and urban routes across the state also present serious safety concerns for motorists. State and local authorities continue to implement measures aimed at reducing collision rates and improving driver safety.
Page Avenue, Wellston (St. Louis)
A 0.53-mile stretch of Page Avenue in Wellston has one of the highest fatal crash rates in Missouri—5.59 per mile. Poor street lighting and limited road signage are believed to be major contributing factors. While local businesses have advocated for the installation of traffic lights, cost considerations have resulted in only “Stop” signs being installed. Motorists are urged to reduce speed and remain highly alert when traveling through this section.
Interstate 70 (St. Louis)
Interstate 70, spanning nearly 4 miles through St. Louis, recorded nine fatalities in a two-year period, making it one of the state’s most hazardous stretches of interstate. Collisions, including serious tractor-trailer accidents, occur frequently. Safety measures on the I-70 include increased enforcement of traffic laws, anti-icing treatments during winter, and additional interchanges to ease congestion.
U.S. Highway 71 (Kansas City)
A 7.8-mile segment of U.S. 71 in Kansas City has been the scene of eight accidents resulting in nine fatalities. While the Missouri Department of Transportation maintains that the road meets safety standards, officials emphasize that driver behavior plays a significant role in preventing crashes. Proposals from drivers to raise the speed limit and remove traffic lights remain under consideration.
Summary
Missouri’s most publicized high-risk roads, such as Highway 63, Page Avenue, Interstate 70, and U.S. Highway 71, highlight the need for continued investment in road safety infrastructure. Equally important is encouraging motorists to adopt safer driving habits, as human behavior remains a key factor in accident prevention across the state.