Motor Vehicle Crashes
Topeka, as the capital city of Kansas, experiences a significant number of motor vehicle accidents every year.
In 2021 alone, there were over 3,100 motor vehicle crashes in Topeka, leading to 700 injuries and 17 fatalities. Trucking accidents, in particular, accounted for 17% of fatal crashes in Kansas, with commercial vehicles frequently traveling through the city.
The presence of major highways like I-70 and US-75 increases the risk of vehicular collisions, particularly truck accidents, which account for 17% of fatal crashes statewide in Kansas. Due to the high volume of heavy trucks passing through Topeka (nearly 17,000 daily), trucking accidents remain a major cause for concern.
Common Types of Vehicle Accidents
The leading causes of motor vehicle accidents in Topeka include:
- Distracted driving: Responsible for a significant portion of accidents, especially those involving rear-end and intersection crashes.
- Speeding: Speeding contributes to a high percentage of accidents, including fatal collisions.
- Drunk driving: Despite a decline in DUI-related fatalities in recent years, alcohol-related crashes still pose a serious risk.
Trucking Accidents
Topeka’s location at a crossroads for major trucking routes makes it a hotspot for commercial truck accidents. Trucks are involved in over 10% of all accidents in the city, and these incidents tend to result in more severe injuries due to the size and weight of the vehicles.
Slip and Fall Accidents
In 2021, there was a noticeable increase in slip and fall accidents, particularly in commercial properties like grocery stores and shopping malls. These incidents contribute to a significant number of personal injury claims, especially during the winter months when icy conditions are prevalent.
Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents
Topeka also sees a substantial number of pedestrian and bicycle accidents, many of which occur near schools and in downtown areas. In 2021:
- 20% of pedestrian accidents resulted in severe injuries.
- Most bicycle accidents occurred at intersections with inadequate signage or visibility.