Kansas City police warn drivers of 20 most crash-prone intersections

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Kansas City Police Department is tracking the 20 most crash-prone intersections in the city. These intersections have been the sites of 235 car crashes in July, August and September alone.

Marcel Suttington lives near the intersection of Gregory and 71 Highway. He often crosses the intersection on foot and says he hates it.

"This is the longest wait. You only cross this highway when you know you have nothing to do," Suttington explained.

The intersection is ranked the second worst intersection in town. Suttington said the worst part is making sure his son makes it across safely.

"I just make sure he gets across the street good; I don't want him to get hit,” he said as he scooped his son up into his arms and crossed the street.

Kansas City traffic analyst Sam Leslie said drivers are to blame. While some intersections are dangerous because of the sheer amount of cars, most are crash-prone because of the driver's inattention to the road.

"Not paying attention and they hit the car in front of them," Leslie explained.

Rounding out the top five most crash-prone intersections in the city; Interstate 435 and Interstate 70, 23rd Street & I-435, Bannister & 71 Highway, and 87th Street & I-435.

Leslie said one of the best ways to get drivers to be more careful is by increasing enforcement. He also said most drivers will not change their habits until they have an accident themselves.

Kansas City police officers have already issued 4,600 tickets in these crash-prone intersections.

This data also helps officers encourage the city to make changes to these intersections, making them safer.