With tens of millions of semi-trucks and other commercial vehicles driving on Missouri highways annually, the transportation industry is a keystone of the state’s economy. But the importance of semis does not erase the deadly threat they pose. Data from the Semi Crash Map shows that accidents involving a semi-truck happen on I-70 frequently.
The driving conditions along I-70 in Missouri are especially hazardous right now due to the Improve I-70 Project, which has introduced the additional risks that come with active construction zones. Understanding these dangers and knowing how to protect yourself and your family is essential for everyone who travels this corridor. Whether you’re driving a passenger vehicle or operating a commercial truck, staying alert, following posted safety measures, and exercising extra caution can help reduce crashes and keep Missouri’s roads safer for everyone.
State-Wide Truck Accident Statistics
Missouri trucking accident trends indicate that while safety initiatives and regulations have helped reduce some risks, the growing demands of the shipping and logistics industries continue to keep large numbers of commercial trucks on our roadways.
Truck crash statistics consistently show that accidents involving commercial trucks have a higher likelihood of resulting in serious injuries or fatalities than crashes involving only passenger vehicles. A Missouri State Highway Patrol report showed that the 15,453 crashes in 2023 resulted in:
- 2,844 total injury-causing crashes
- 4,248 total people injured
- 121 total fatal truck crashes
- 130 total fatalities
Many truck collisions leave families dealing with tragic and unexpected losses. Even when passenger vehicle occupants survive the initial impact, the severity of their injuries often leads to lengthy hospitalizations, multiple surgeries, and extended rehabilitation periods.
Which Missouri Roads and Highways Have the Most Truck Crashes?
Certain roads throughout Missouri experience disproportionately high numbers of semi-truck accidents. Interstate highways that cross the state serve as major commercial transportation routes, making them hotspots for truck-related collisions. Interstate 70, including the corridor that connects St. Louis and Kansas City, consistently ranks among the most dangerous highways for truck accidents in the state.
The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) reports that trucks are involved in 28 percent of crashes and 40 percent of fatal crashes on I-70. The problems on I-70 have been a long-standing issue for Missouri residents. This is mainly due to poor road condition, heavy truck traffic, speeding, and congestion around St. Louis. For these reasons, many people consider it the most dangerous, or deadliest, highway in Missouri.
However, this long-standing problem has become more serious recently with 6+ year construction project taken on by the state.
The “Improve I-70 Project” Creates Unsafe Driving Conditions
The 2.8-billion-dollar “Improve I-70 Project” is aiming to repair the roadway and add a third lane of traffic in each direction for the entire 200-mile stretch- from Blue Springs to Wentzville. In addition to widening the road, the state will increase safe truck parking. This is vital infrastructure that reduces drowsy truck drivers and illegal overnight parking, both of which are important factors in combatting the high number of truck wrecks in the state. The project, approved by the Missouri General Assembly as part of the 2024 budget, was later updated In May 2025 to include 8 total components. Each segment is a separate contract with its own start date—half of which have not started yet.
Total completion of the corridor is anticipated by the end of 2030. Once finished, these changes will have a tremendously positive impact on all Missouri drivers. However, with the projected 6 years of continuous construction in the meantime, everyone must be cautious when driving on I-70 due to the increased risks associated with construction zone driving.
Data on the Dangers of Construction Zones
Some of the most dangerous places in construction zones are at the beginning where traffic starts funneling to fewer lanes. Research has found that accidents, specifically rear-end collisions, were more severe when they took place upon approach of the work zone. Drivers may be changing lanes, merging, or failing to slow down. Additionally, narrowing construction lanes substantially contributes to car accidents. The most frequent types of construction zone collisions include rear-end (34%), broadside/right-angle (27%), and sideswipe (20%).
When it comes to accidents in construction zones, there are many contributing and escalating factors. However, choosing to ignore flaggers and traffic control, being intoxicated, and speeding cause roughly 60% of fatal accidents. Following too closely (tailgating) and driver inattention contribute to about 70% of injury-related accidents, though many of these are actually the result of fatigued or impaired driving. The likelihood of an accident in a highway construction zone increases at night, with research showing it is about five times more dangerous than driving through during daylight hours.
Ways to Minimize Your Risk of a Collision in Construction Zones
- Use turn signals and check your mirrors. Signal at least five seconds before changing lanes and always check your mirrors to make sure the lane is clear. Predictable driving helps prevent confusion for other drivers and construction workers.
- Avoid semi-truck blind spots. Large trucks have significant “no-zones” where drivers cannot see nearby vehicles. Pass safely and avoid lingering beside or directly behind trucks.
- Eliminate distractions. Put your phone away and keep your eyes on the road. Traffic in work zones can stop or change suddenly, making distracted driving especially dangerous.
- Plan your route. Check your GPS and your state’s Department of Transportation traffic updates before leaving. Knowing about lane closures, detours, and delays can help you prepare and reduce stress behind the wheel.
- Slow down. Reduced speed limits exist to protect drivers, workers, and emergency responders. Speeding decreases your reaction time, increases crash severity, and often results in doubled or tripled fines in work zones.
- Stay patient. Avoid aggressive behaviors such as tailgating, weaving between lanes, or making unsafe passes. A few seconds saved is never worth risking a serious collision.
- Never drive fatigued or impaired. Drowsiness and alcohol or drugs significantly reduce reaction time, judgment, and decision-making. If you are too tired or impaired to drive safely, wait until you are rested or arrange another way home.
For Victims of Truck Accidents on I-70, What Can Hiring a Lawyer do for You?
At Craig, Kelley & Faultless, we share Missouri Department of Transportation’s sentiment that “the ultimate goal is zero fatalities.” No family should be faced with the sudden loss of a loved one due to a fatal collision. Our attorneys publish blogs, videos, podcasts, and testify before legislators to advocate for safer practices and tighter laws. While we hope that one day our Missouri community will be free of fatal accidents, we understand that there are families facing this reality who need support. If you or your family has been affected by a collision with a semi-truck or other commercial vehicle, call us to discuss what our team can do for you. You don’t have to go through this alone. Speak with experts about the next steps for you and your family.
Craig, Kelley & Faultless Is Ready to Help
Craig, Kelley & Faultless is a personal injury law firm handling semi and other truck accident cases in St. Louis, Missouri, and throughout the nation. The firm has lawyers licensed in Missouri, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, and Tennessee. These experienced lawyers have dedicated their careers to helping victims and their loved ones involved in commercial vehicle wrecks through every aspect of their case. The firm also has a rapid response team that works with investigators, reconstructionists and mechanics who immediately collect evidence as soon as the firm is hired.
Our Missouri attorney Christopher M. Barry was included in 2026’s edition of The Best Lawyers in America®, reflecting his professional reputation and results. Chris believes that the civil justice system, particularly the right to a jury trial, plays a critical role in holding negligent parties accountable. He represents injured individuals exclusively and is committed to helping clients navigate difficult circumstances with clear guidance, responsiveness, and strong advocacy.
The Craig, Kelley & Faultless St. Louis office is located at 5585 Pershing Ave Suite 110, St. Louis, MO 63112, available by appointment only. Reach out for a free case consultation at (314) 367-2661or visit https://www.ckflaw.com/st-louis/.
David W. Craig sits on the Board of Regents of the Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys, which requires Board Certification in Truck Accident Law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. He is the managing partner and one of the founding partners of Craig, Kelley & Faultless LLC. David is the author of Semitruck Wreck, A Guide for Victims and Their Families and It’s Never Been Easier to Hire the Wrong Attorney, both written to help people navigate what comes next after a tragic wreck. He also hosts the podcast After the Crash, where you can gain valuable information about the dangers involving semis and large trucks that do not follow safety protocol regarding speed, weather conditions, maintenance upkeep, etc.
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