By Crash News Writer 
Every time you get behind the wheel, you depend on other drivers to stop at red lights, yield when required, and pay attention to changing traffic conditions. Unfortunately, a single mistake at a busy intersection can lead to a serious crash.
Some dangerous intersections in Topeka see more collisions than others. According to crash data reported for 2023, more than 1,000 accidents occurred at intersections throughout the city. Eleven locations stood out for having particularly high numbers of reported crashes.
Knowing where these intersections are can help drivers understand where extra caution may be necessary. Heavy traffic, turning vehicles, multiple lanes, nearby highway access, and complicated traffic patterns can all increase the chance of a collision.
Here are 11 dangerous intersections in Topeka that recorded some of the highest numbers of crashes in 2023.
S.E. 21st Street and Adams Street
S.E. 21st Street and Adams Street topped the list with 13 reported crashes in 2023. Those collisions represented approximately 1.23% of all intersection accidents reported throughout Topeka that year.
The intersection handles traffic moving through a busy part of southeastern Topeka. Drivers approaching intersections like this must watch for vehicles turning, changing lanes, or entering the roadway.
The city has also recognized the need for improvements at this location. Topeka officials have indicated that funding from a Kansas Department of Transportation grant expected in 2028 will help support improvements at the intersection.
With the highest number of reported crashes on the list, S.E. 21st and Adams remains one of the dangerous intersections in Topeka where drivers should stay especially alert.
S.W. 29th Street and Fairlawn Road
S.W. 29th Street and Fairlawn Road recorded eight crashes in 2023, tying with three other locations for the second-highest total.
Both roads carry traffic through southwest Topeka, creating opportunities for vehicles to cross paths as drivers turn or continue through the intersection. Even when traffic signals control the right of way, distracted driving, speeding, or failing to yield can quickly cause a collision.
Drivers traveling through dangerous intersections in Topeka, such as 29th and Fairlawn, should leave enough space between vehicles and avoid trying to beat a changing traffic light.
S.W. 21st Street and Gage Boulevard
Eight crashes were also reported at S.W. 21st Street and Gage Boulevard during 2023.
This intersection connects two significant roads in southwest Topeka. Traffic moving in several directions can create risks when motorists make left turns, change lanes near the intersection, or follow other vehicles too closely.
Many crashes at intersections happen within seconds. A driver looking at a phone, misjudging another vehicle’s speed, or entering on a red light may leave another motorist with little time to react.
Its eight reported crashes placed 21st and Gage among the dangerous intersections in Topeka identified through the 2023 crash data.
S.W. 6th Avenue and Topeka Boulevard
Another eight crashes occurred at S.W. 6th Avenue and Topeka Boulevard.
Located near central Topeka, this intersection brings together traffic traveling along two well-used city routes. Drivers may encounter vehicles turning, pedestrians crossing, and motorists entering or leaving nearby properties.
Busy urban intersections require drivers to watch more than the traffic signal directly ahead. Motorists should also look for pedestrians, cyclists, turning vehicles, and drivers who may unexpectedly enter their lane.
That combination makes locations like 6th and Topeka Boulevard important to remember when discussing dangerous intersections in Topeka.
S.W. 10th Avenue and Washburn Avenue
S.W. 10th Avenue and Washburn Avenue also had eight reported crashes in 2023.
The city has taken steps to address traffic flow in this area. Topeka Public Works announced plans to replace the signal serving 10th and Washburn/Lane with a new system. Because the intersections at Washburn and Lane are located close together, a single traffic signal control system is intended to better coordinate traffic movement.
Infrastructure improvements may help, but drivers still play an important role in preventing crashes. Motorists approaching dangerous intersections in Topeka should reduce distractions, follow signals carefully, and allow enough room to stop safely.
S.W. Huntoon Street and Polk Street
Seven crashes were reported at S.W. Huntoon Street and Polk Street, placing the intersection in a three-way tie for the sixth-highest number of crashes.
Even intersections with fewer lanes can present risks. Drivers may encounter vehicles making turns, entering from side streets, or stopping unexpectedly.
Visibility and timing also matter. Motorists should approach intersections at a safe speed and avoid assuming another driver will yield simply because traffic rules require them to do so.
The crash numbers at Huntoon and Polk show that dangerous intersections in Topeka are not limited to the city’s largest or busiest roadways.
S.W. 21st Street and I-470
The intersection of S.W. 21st Street and I-470 also recorded seven crashes during 2023.
Areas near interstate ramps can create unique traffic challenges. Drivers may be slowing down to exit, accelerating to enter a highway, merging across lanes, or trying to position themselves for a turn.
Differences in speed can make these areas especially difficult to navigate. A motorist leaving the highway may still be traveling faster than surrounding traffic, while another driver may slow suddenly when approaching a signal.
Among the dangerous intersections in Topeka, locations near highway access points deserve additional attention because traffic patterns can change quickly.
S.W. 21st Street and Chelsea Drive
Seven crashes were also reported at S.W. 21st Street and Chelsea Drive.
S.W. 21st Street appears multiple times on the list, showing that drivers traveling along this corridor encounter several intersections with notable crash histories.
Motorists should avoid becoming too comfortable simply because they travel the same route every day. Familiar roads can sometimes lead drivers to pay less attention to their surroundings.
The crash history at 21st and Chelsea provides another reminder to remain cautious when traveling through dangerous intersections in Topeka, even on familiar routes.
S.W. Topeka Boulevard and 29th Street
Six crashes occurred at S.W. Topeka Boulevard and 29th Street in 2023, tying the intersection with two others for ninth place.
Both roads carry traffic through southern Topeka, and drivers may encounter vehicles traveling straight, turning across traffic, or entering nearby businesses and side streets.
Left turns can be particularly risky at busy intersections. Drivers should make sure they have enough time and distance before crossing oncoming lanes rather than assuming another vehicle will slow down.
The six reported collisions place this location among the dangerous intersections in Topeka drivers should recognize.
S.W. Huntoon Street and Washburn Avenue
S.W. Huntoon Street and Washburn Avenue recorded six crashes in 2023.
Drivers approaching this intersection should pay close attention to traffic signals and surrounding vehicles, particularly when preparing to turn. Following too closely can also increase the risk of rear-end crashes when traffic suddenly stops.
Recognizing dangerous intersections in Topeka does not mean every trip through these locations will be unsafe. Instead, crash history can help drivers identify areas where paying closer attention may make an important difference.
S.W. 6th Avenue and Fairlawn Road
Rounding out the list is S.W. 6th Avenue and Fairlawn Road, where six crashes were reported during 2023.
Both 6th Avenue and Fairlawn Road are important routes for drivers traveling through western Topeka. As with other busy intersections, motorists must be prepared for changing lights, turning vehicles, sudden stops, and drivers entering or leaving nearby properties.
The intersection’s crash history places it among the dangerous intersections in Topeka identified by the 2023 data.
Why Do So Many Crashes Happen at Intersections?
Intersections naturally create conflict points because vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists may be moving in different directions at the same time. One mistake can put two vehicles directly in each other’s path.
Common causes of intersection crashes include:
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Failing to yield the right of way
- Making unsafe left turns
- Speeding through intersections
- Distracted driving
- Following another vehicle too closely
- Misjudging the speed of approaching traffic
- Changing lanes too close to an intersection
- Driving while impaired
- Failing to watch for pedestrians and cyclists
Drivers can lower their risk by approaching dangerous intersections in Topeka with additional caution. Slow down when necessary, leave enough following distance, watch surrounding traffic, and never assume another driver will follow the rules.
Staying Safe on Topeka Roads
Crash statistics cannot predict exactly where the next accident will happen. However, they can show patterns that help drivers and city officials identify locations that may need closer attention.
Topeka officials have said they take crash history seriously when considering traffic improvements. Projects such as updated signal systems and planned intersection improvements may help address traffic flow and safety concerns over time.
Drivers also have a role to play. Staying focused, following traffic signals, yielding when required, and allowing extra space around other vehicles can reduce the chance of a serious collision.
Whether you drive across town every day or only occasionally travel through these dangerous intersections in Topeka, knowing where crashes have occurred most frequently can help you stay more aware. A few extra seconds of caution at a busy intersection may be enough to prevent a crash and help everyone on the road reach their destination safely.