What are the traffic accident statistics in Missouri? Quick Answer
- Missouri typically experiences over 130,000 traffic crashes annually, with fatal accidents generally accounting for approximately 900 fatalities per year.
Traffic accidents remain a significant concern for Missouri residents, with thousands of crashes occurring across the state each year. Understanding these statistics helps drivers recognize patterns, identify risk factors, and make informed decisions about road safety. The data reveals important trends in crash types, severity levels, and the various factors contributing to accidents throughout the Show-Me State. One of the most persistent contributors is aggressive driving, which continues to play a major role in crash rates.
Overall Traffic Crash Trends in Missouri
Traffic Accidents in Missouri by Severity Type (2002–2023)
www.consumershield.comMissouri's traffic accident data from 2002 to 2023 shows fluctuating patterns in crash frequency and severity. The state has generally seen a decline in total crashes from earlier years, though certain periods have experienced increases.
In 2023, Missouri recorded 136,839 total crashes, representing an increase from the 127,485 crashes reported in 2022. This upward trend follows the significant reduction in crashes during 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic led to decreased traffic volumes across the state.
Fatal crashes in Missouri have remained relatively stable over the past two decades, typically ranging between 680 and 920 fatal accidents annually. The 2023 data shows 905 fatal crashes, slightly above the 878 recorded in 2022 but below the peak of 931 fatal crashes seen in 2021.
Personal injury crashes generally account for the largest portion of serious accidents, with 2023 recording 34,820 such incidents. Property damage only crashes represent the majority of all traffic accidents, with 101,114 cases in 2023, highlighting that while many accidents occur, most result in material damage rather than physical harm.
Car Accident Statistics and Patterns
Number of Car Accidents in Missouri (2013–2023)
www.consumershield.comCar accidents represent the most common type of vehicle collision in Missouri. Data from 2013 to 2023 reveals significant variations in accident frequency, influenced by factors such as weather conditions, economic activity, and traffic volume changes.
The highest number of car accidents occurred in 2016 with 252,452 incidents, while 2020 saw the lowest count at 200,193 accidents due to pandemic-related travel restrictions. Recent data shows 215,151 car accidents in 2023, indicating a recovery toward pre-pandemic levels.
These statistics typically include various types of vehicle collisions, from minor fender-benders to serious multi-vehicle crashes. The data suggests that car accident frequency generally correlates with overall traffic volume and economic activity levels throughout Missouri.
Motorcycle Accident Statistics
Number of Motorcycle Accidents in Missouri (2013–2023)
www.consumershield.comMotorcycle accidents in Missouri have shown relatively stable patterns over the past decade, though they generally result in more severe injuries compared to car accidents due to the exposed nature of motorcycle riding.
The data from 2013 to 2023 shows motorcycle accidents typically ranging between 2,000 and 2,500 incidents annually. The year 2017 recorded the highest number with 2,474 accidents, while 2019 saw the lowest at 2,051 accidents. Recent data indicates 2,431 motorcycle accidents in 2023, representing an increase from previous years.
Motorcycle accidents often result in more serious injuries and fatalities compared to other vehicle types, making safety equipment and defensive riding practices particularly important for Missouri motorcyclists.
Truck Accident Statistics
Number of Truck Accidents in Missouri (2021–2025)
www.consumershield.comTruck accidents in Missouri have remained relatively consistent in recent years, with data available from 2021 to 2025 showing typical annual totals between 5,200 and 5,800 incidents.
The highest number occurred in 2022 with 5,788 truck accidents, while 2023 saw a decrease to 5,232 incidents. The 2024 data shows 5,308 truck accidents, while partial 2025 data already indicates 1,220 accidents, suggesting the year may follow similar patterns to previous years.
These statistics generally include various types of truck accidents, from delivery trucks to large semi-trailers. Truck accidents often result in more severe damage and injuries due to the size and weight differences between commercial vehicles and passenger cars.
Pedestrian Accident Statistics
Number of Accidents Involving Pedestrian in Missouri (2013–2023)
www.consumershield.comPedestrian accidents in Missouri have shown concerning trends, with data from 2013 to 2023 revealing fluctuating but generally significant numbers of incidents involving people on foot.
The peak year for pedestrian accidents was 2016 with 1,526 incidents, while 2022 recorded the lowest number at 1,234 accidents. However, 2023 saw a notable increase to 1,507 pedestrian accidents, suggesting potential safety challenges that may require increased attention to pedestrian infrastructure and driver awareness.
These accidents typically occur in urban areas, intersections, and areas with high foot traffic. Pedestrian accidents often result in serious injuries due to the vulnerability of individuals when struck by vehicles.
Bicycle Accident Statistics
Number of Bicycle Crash Accidents in Missouri (2013–2023)
www.consumershield.comBicycle accidents in Missouri have generally shown a declining trend over the past decade, though recent data suggests some fluctuation in this pattern.
From 2013 to 2023, bicycle accidents typically ranged between 380 and 590 incidents annually. The highest number occurred in 2015 with 588 accidents, while 2021 recorded the lowest at 381 accidents. The 2023 data shows 525 bicycle accidents, representing an increase from the previous few years.
Bicycle accidents often involve interactions between cyclists and motor vehicles, highlighting the importance of sharing the road safely and maintaining proper visibility and safety equipment.
Seeking Legal Help After a Missouri Traffic Accident
Traffic accidents can lead to serious injuries, property damage, and complex insurance disputes. If you’ve been involved in a crash in Missouri, working with an experienced personal injury attorney can help you navigate your legal options, especially when fault is unclear or injuries are severe.
ConsumerShield connects individuals with trusted Missouri lawyers who specialize in auto accident and personal injury claims. Whether you need help after a car, motorcycle, truck, or pedestrian accident, our attorney network is ready to assist.
Check out these Missouri lawyer pages to get started:
Our matching service is completely free, and we support you through every step of the legal process. ConsumerShield has helped thousands of accident victims pursue the compensation they deserve.
Understanding these statistics empowers Missouri drivers to make safer choices, and when an accident happens, legal guidance can make a meaningful difference in recovery and justice.
