Mississippi’s roads are vital arteries for commerce, travel, and daily life, but they can also be dangerous. Major interstates like I-20, I-55, and I-10 run through the state, as well as heavily traveled routes like US-49. Crash risks increase due to freight traffic, high speeds, rural hazards, and unpredictable weather.

According to the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS), crashes in Mississippi are more frequent and severe along major highways and in metropolitan areas such as:

• Jackson at I-55 and I-20
• Biloxi at I-10 and US-49
• Hattiesburg at I-59 and US-49
• The Tennessee border at I-55 and I-69

Most crashes in Mississippi result in property damage only, while fatal crashes remain less common. However, they are often catastrophic in high-speed interstates or rural stretches.

We’ll examine the top five deadliest stretches and intersections in Mississippi, highlighting why they are dangerous, what crash data reveals, and what drivers can do to stay safe.

Mississippi’s Most Dangerous Highway Stretches

Mississippi’s highways are lifelines for commuters, freight haulers, and tourists alike, but specific stretches consistently see higher crash rates than others. These corridors stand out not only for the sheer volume of traffic they carry but also for their unique hazards, from severe weather on the Gulf Coast to congested interchanges in Jackson. Below, we take a closer look at the most dangerous stretches of roadway in the state and why they demand extra caution from drivers.

1. I-20: Vicksburg to Jackson (Warren & Hinds Counties)

The section of I-20 between Vicksburg and Jackson is one of Mississippi’s most heavily traveled stretches, serving interstate freight and local commuters. This dual use creates constant congestion, especially near Jackson’s interchanges with I-55 and I-220. Traffic slowdowns here often lead to rear-end collisions, while freight trucks moving at higher speeds add another layer of danger. Weather also plays a significant role; dense fog and sudden downpours along the Mississippi River valley frequently reduce visibility and make this corridor treacherous.

Beyond the traffic volume, this stretch is also home to some of Mississippi’s most notable landmarks. Vicksburg National Military Park attracts visitors year-round, and the added tourism traffic mixes with the already heavy commuter flow. Near Jackson, the presence of Jackson State University and central business districts increases pedestrian and student driver activity. These factors make the Vicksburg-to-Jackson section of I-20 a corridor where drivers must stay especially cautious.

2. I-55: Jackson to McComb (Hinds, Copiah & Pike Counties)

I-55 is Mississippi’s main north-south artery, and the segment running south from Jackson to McComb is one of the busiest in the state. With commuters, long-haul truckers, and out-of-state drivers all sharing the road, speeding and aggressive driving are common crash contributors. Many collisions here involve large commercial vehicles, which makes outcomes more severe. Fatigue-related crashes are also serious, as truckers and travelers often push long hours along this corridor.

Crash patterns on I-55 highlight both urban congestion and rural risks. In Jackson, the interchange with I-20 is one of the state’s deadliest hot spots, creating frequent bottlenecks that lead to rear-end and lane-change collisions. The setting becomes more rural as the highway transitions south into Copiah and Pike Counties, but crash risks remain. Wildlife crossings, poor visibility during fog, and icy bridges in winter contribute to serious wrecks, making this corridor one of Mississippi’s most dangerous despite its importance to statewide travel.

3. I-10: Gulfport to Pascagoula (Harrison & Jackson Counties)

Running through the Mississippi Gulf Coast, I-10 between Gulfport and Pascagoula is a lifeline for freight, tourism, and local travel. It is also a high-risk stretch, particularly during severe weather and hurricane evacuations. Heavy rain, tropical storms, and dense fog frequently reduce visibility, making high-speed travel especially hazardous. Congestion is another factor, with tourists heading to Biloxi’s casinos and beaches mixing with commuter traffic from military bases and port workers.

Truck traffic is heavy along this corridor, as the route serves the Port of Pascagoula, one of the busiest shipping hubs on the Gulf Coast. This increases the risk of severe truck-involved crashes, particularly near the Pascagoula River bridge, where merging traffic creates conflict points. Seasonal surges in evacuation traffic during hurricane season can turn I-10 into gridlock, increasing the likelihood of rear-end and multi-vehicle crashes. This makes the Gulfport-to-Pascagoula stretch one of Mississippi’s most consistently hazardous highways.

4. US-49: Jackson to Hattiesburg

US-49 is a vital connector highway in Mississippi, linking Jackson to Hattiesburg and beyond. Unlike interstates, much of this stretch is a rural highway with limited divided sections, making head-on and angle crashes more common. The highway is also dotted with intersections, traffic signals, and driveways, particularly near small towns, which increases the risk of collisions. Commercial truck traffic is heavy along this route, especially as freight moves between Jackson and Hattiesburg’s industrial zones.

In addition to rural hazards, suburban areas near Hattiesburg present their challenges. The presence of the University of Southern Mississippi increases pedestrian and student commuter traffic, while shopping areas like Turtle Creek Mall add retail congestion. Lighting is limited on rural segments of US-49, making night driving especially dangerous. Between intersection crashes in rural areas and pedestrian-involved collisions near Hattiesburg, this highway consistently ranks as one of Mississippi’s most hazardous non-interstate stretches.

5. I-55 and I-69 at the Tennessee Border (DeSoto County)

Near the Tennessee border, the interchange of I-55 and I-69 in DeSoto County has become one of Mississippi’s most crash-prone areas. The rapid growth of suburban communities like Southaven and Olive Branch has fueled massive increases in commuter traffic, overwhelming the highway’s capacity. Add in long-haul freight moving to and from Memphis International Airport, resulting in constant congestion and a higher risk of collisions. Rear-end crashes are common in rush-hour traffic, while trucks often contribute to jackknife or rollover accidents in this area.

This region also has unique risks tied to its location. With Memphis just across the border, traffic often comes to a crawl at peak hours, creating sudden slowdowns that lead to chain-reaction crashes. Landmarks like Tanger Outlets Southaven and the Landers Center add extra retail and event-related congestion. According to FARS data, DeSoto County consistently ranks among the state’s highest for fatal crashes, and much of that stems from the high-speed, high-volume traffic funneling through this interstate interchange.

How to Stay Safe on Mississippi’s Most Dangerous Roads

• Slow down in heavy rain or fog.
• Avoid distractions near congested interchanges.
• Give trucks extra space, especially on I-55 and I-10.
• Plan ahead during hurricane evacuations to avoid gridlock.
• Be cautious in rural areas where lighting and visibility are limited.

How to Use This List

This list is meant to raise awareness about Mississippi’s most dangerous roads and intersections. Drivers can make safer choices by highlighting crash patterns, landmarks, and hazards,

If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash on one of these stretches, know that help is available. Local Accident Reports (LAR) is not a law firm, but we connect readers with resources to find experienced Mississippi accident attorneys.

What to Do After a Crash in Mississippi

Being involved in a car accident is overwhelming, especially on one of Mississippi’s busy interstates or high-risk highways. The moments after a collision are often chaotic, but taking the proper steps can protect your safety, health, and ability to recover from the crash.

1. Prioritize safety.
   Check yourself and your passengers for injuries first. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. If your vehicle is drivable, move it to a safe location out of traffic. Turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers.
2. Contact law enforcement.
   Mississippi law requires drivers to report crashes involving injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage. Police reports are also valuable when filing an insurance claim, since they provide an official record of what happened.
3. Exchange and document information.
   Share your name, contact details, driver’s license, and insurance information with the other driver. Use your phone to take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, roadway conditions, traffic signals, and weather factors. These details can make a big difference later.
4. Seek medical care.
   Even if you feel fine, many car accident injuries, such as concussions, whiplash, or internal injuries, may not show symptoms right away. Visit a doctor or urgent care clinic as soon as possible after a crash. Documenting your injuries promptly is important for both your health and your recovery process.
5. Notify your insurance company.
   Report the crash to your insurer quickly, but stick to the facts. Do not admit fault until a full investigation is completed.
6. Consider your options for support.
   Dealing with medical bills, lost wages, and insurance companies can feel overwhelming. Many crash victims find it helpful to speak with a local accident attorney who understands Mississippi law and can guide them through recovery.

At Local Accident Reports, we’re here to help victims of Mississippi crashes take the next step. While we aren’t a law firm, our mission is to connect people with trusted local attorneys who can explain their rights and help them move forward after a serious accident.

The Bigger Picture: Mississippi’s Deadliest Roads

Mississippi’s interstates and highways are critical lifelines for the state, but they also rank among the most dangerous travel routes in the Southeast. Whether it’s congestion in Jackson, coastal storms in Biloxi, or high-speed rural stretches near Hattiesburg, crash risks remain high.

By understanding where the deadliest roads are, drivers can stay alert, plan safer routes, and know what dangers to expect.

Finding the Right Help After an Accident: Contact a Trusted Mississippi Personal Injury Attorney

Were you or a loved one hurt in a crash on I-20, I-55, I-10, US-49, or near the Mississippi-Tennessee border? You don’t have to face the aftermath alone.

At Local Accident Reports, we provide the latest accident news and connect victims with trusted local lawyers who can help them understand their options. If you’re dealing with injuries, property damage, or the loss of a loved one, let us help you find the support you need.

Contact Local Accident Reports today to connect with a Mississippi accident attorney who can review your case and guide you through the next steps.