Why the I-64 & I-170 Interchange Is One of St. Louis’ Most Dangerous Areas
If you regularly drive through the I-64 and I-170 interchange, you already know how chaotic it can be. As one of the busiest intersections in St. Louis County, it sees a high volume of traffic moving between Brentwood, Clayton, Richmond Heights, and West County. Unfortunately, this congestion makes it a frequent site of preventable crashes.
Understanding why accidents happen in this area can help you stay alert—and protect yourself and your passengers.
Common Causes of Crashes at the I-64 & I-170 Interchange
1. Sudden Lane Changes
The ramps to I-170 north and south arrive quickly, and many drivers attempt last-second merges to avoid missing their exit. These unpredictable movements often lead to sideswipe and rear-end collisions.
2. Rapid Speed Changes
Traffic near the interchange can shift from highway speeds to a complete stop in seconds. This is especially common during rush hour and contributes to a high rate of rear-end accidents.
3. Short Merge Areas
I-64 has notoriously tight merging zones approaching this interchange. Drivers frequently misjudge the speed and distance of oncoming traffic, leading to impact in high-pressure merge points.
4. Distracted Driving
With multiple ramps, overhead signs, and dense congestion, this area already demands full attention. Drivers glancing at their phones or GPS devices greatly increase the risk of causing a collision.
How to Stay Safe in This High-Risk Area
✔ Choose your lane early — avoid last-minute lane changes
✔ Increase following distance, especially near the ramps
✔ Reduce speed during peak traffic, particularly between Brentwood and Clayton
✔ Stay focused on the road, not your GPS or notifications
These simple precautions can significantly reduce your risk of being involved in a crash.
What to Do If You’re in an Accident at This Interchange
Accidents in high-traffic areas often result in complex insurance disputes. Fault may be contested, multiple drivers may be involved, and injuries can take time to show up. That’s why protecting your rights early is critical.
At J Tolin Law, we help St. Louis drivers navigate these challenges with experience and clarity. If you were injured in a crash near the I-64 & I-170 interchange—or anywhere in Missouri—our team is here to guide you through the next steps.
Need legal help after a St. Louis car accident? Contact J Tolin Law for a consultation.
Serving St. Louis City, St. Louis County, Chesterfield, West County, and the entire state of Missouri.