The Most Dangerous Roads and Intersections in North Dakota

Though North Dakota is one of the least populated states in the nation, it faces unique traffic challenges. Rapid energy development in the western region has brought heavy truck traffic to rural roads, while the state’s largest cities, Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks, and Minot, are experiencing growing congestion. Severe winters also add a layer of risk, with snow, ice, and whiteout conditions making driving especially hazardous.

This guide highlights the 10 deadliest intersections and 10 most dangerous road stretches in North Dakota. It reviews recent crash data, fatality counts, and the conditions that make these areas particularly risky. Whether commuting in Fargo, traveling through oilfield regions in Williston, or driving long rural highways, knowing these high-risk spots can help you stay safer on the road.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash in North Dakota, Local Accident Reports can help you obtain your official crash report and connect you with experienced injury attorneys who understand state laws and will fight for your rights. 

Top 10 Deadliest Intersections in North Dakota

1. I-94 & I-29 Interchange, Fargo

This interchange is the busiest in the state, with more than 80 crashes and at least four fatalities in five years. It is a critical connection between east-west and north-south interstate routes. High-speed merging, commuter traffic, and frequent winter ice make this intersection a serious hazard.

2. Main Avenue & 25th Street, Fargo

Located in one of Fargo’s busiest urban corridors, this intersection has seen at least 70 crashes and three fatalities. Multiple lanes, frequent turning traffic, and pedestrian crossings near local businesses make it especially risky. Congestion during rush hours often leads to angle and rear-end collisions.

3. I-94 & US-83 Interchange, Bismarck

With more than 65 crashes and three deaths, this interchange in Burleigh County is one of central North Dakota’s most hazardous locations. The merging of two major highways creates frequent weaving conflicts. High speeds and icy winter conditions often lead to severe collisions.

4. University Drive & Main Avenue, Fargo

This downtown Fargo intersection has recorded at least 60 crashes and two fatalities. It sits near the North Dakota State University campus and commercial businesses, adding pedestrian and vehicle traffic. Multiple turning lanes and busy signals make conditions unpredictable.

5. 13th Avenue South & 45th Street South, Fargo

In a growing suburban retail corridor, this intersection has reported more than 55 crashes and two fatalities. High left-turn volumes and heavy shopping traffic create congestion and frequent conflicts. During snowstorms, visibility is limited, further increasing risks.

6. State Street (US-83) & Divide Avenue, Bismarck

With at least 50 crashes and two deaths, this intersection is one of Bismarck’s busiest. Multiple access points to shopping centers and heavy turning movements create conflict zones. During peak hours, the mix of local shoppers and through traffic makes crashes common.

7. 32nd Avenue South & 25th Street, Fargo

This suburban corridor has seen more than 48 crashes and two fatalities. Surrounded by retail and residential developments, traffic is steady throughout the day. Limited visibility during snowstorms adds to the dangers, particularly for left-turning drivers.

8. I-29 & 52nd Avenue South Interchange, Fargo

This growing suburban interchange has reported more than 45 crashes and two fatalities. Heavy commuter traffic during rush hours causes merging challenges. As Fargo continues to expand southward, traffic at this interchange is only increasing.

9. US-2 & US-85 Junction, Williston

With at least 40 crashes and two deaths, this Williams County intersection is heavily influenced by oilfield traffic. Large trucks, rural high-speed approaches, and limited passing zones make it one of the most dangerous rural intersections in the state.

10. Memorial Highway & Burlington Drive, Mandan

This Morton County intersection has recorded 35 crashes and two fatalities. It is a busy local arterial with multiple commercial entrances. Rear-end collisions are common as drivers enter and exit nearby businesses.

How Local Knowledge Improves Road Safety

While crash data and statistics provide a clear picture of where North Dakota’s most dangerous traffic locations are, local knowledge adds another layer of safety. Drivers who live and work in cities like Fargo, Bismarck, or Williston often know which intersections back up at rush hour, where icy bridges freeze first, or which rural stretches have frequent wildlife crossings.

Sharing that information with friends, family, and community members helps reduce risks by keeping everyone more alert. Travelers and new residents, who may not yet be familiar with seasonal hazards or traffic patterns, also benefit when locals share tips and warnings. Even something as simple as knowing when snowplows are scheduled can prevent accidents in winter.

By combining official crash reports with firsthand community knowledge, North Dakotans can create safer conditions for everyone on the road. Awareness and communication are powerful tools in preventing crashes.

Top 10 Deadliest Road Stretches in North Dakota

1. I-94: Fargo to Bismarck

With more than 40 fatal crashes and 45 deaths, this corridor is the busiest and deadliest in North Dakota. It connects the state’s two largest cities and carries heavy freight traffic. Severe winter weather, including whiteouts and icy pavement, makes it especially dangerous.

2. US-2: Grand Forks to Williston

This central east-west corridor has reported more than 35 fatal crashes and 40 deaths. It is a key freight and oilfield route. Long rural stretches, high speeds, and wildlife crossings make it hazardous year-round.

3. US-83: Bismarck to Minot

With at least 30 fatal crashes and 35 deaths, this north-south highway is one of the most heavily traveled in central North Dakota. Oilfield trucks, commuters, and icy winter roads combine to create dangerous conditions.

4. I-29: Fargo to Grand Forks

This corridor has seen 28 fatal crashes and 32 deaths. As a major freight route, it carries heavy truck traffic. Winter whiteouts are a significant risk, with chain-reaction collisions common during blizzards.

5. US-85: Watford City to Williston

This oil corridor has recorded 25 fatal crashes and 30 deaths. Significant truck traffic dominates the route, and limited passing zones encourage risky maneuvers. Narrow shoulders and sharp curves add to the hazards.

6. US-52: Minot to Carrington

This highway has reported 20 fatal crashes and 23 deaths. It is a rural route with frequent wildlife crossings and dangerous winter driving conditions. High speeds and limited lighting at night make collisions severe.

7. US-281: Jamestown to Devil’s Lake

With 18 fatal crashes and 20 deaths, this rural two-lane road is a risky corridor. Limited lighting, icy roads, and few passing opportunities create challenges for drivers, especially during winter.

8. ND-22: Dickinson to Killdeer

This Stark and Dunn County route has seen at least 16 fatal crashes and 18 deaths. It is an oilfield traffic corridor with narrow shoulders, sharp curves, and heavy truck volumes.

9. US-2 Bypass: Minot

With 15 fatal crashes and 17 deaths, this bypass carries both commuter and industrial traffic. Merging trucks and local access points create frequent conflicts, especially during peak hours.

10. I-29: Grand Forks to Canadian Border

This long rural stretch has reported 14 fatal crashes and 16 deaths. Fatigue-related collisions are common, and snowstorms often create whiteout conditions that make visibility nearly impossible.

Safety Tips for North Dakota Drivers

Driving in North Dakota presents unique challenges, especially with winter conditions and heavy freight corridors. Here are key tips to reduce risks:

• Prepare for severe weather: Whiteouts and icy roads are common. Slow down, increase following distance, and keep emergency supplies in your vehicle.
• Watch for wildlife: Deer and other animals frequently cross rural highways, especially at dawn and dusk.
• Use extra caution near oil traffic: In regions like Williston, expect heavy trucks and slower vehicles. Allow for longer stopping distances.
• Avoid distractions: On long rural stretches, boredom can lead to inattentive driving. Stay alert and focused.
• Obey speed limits: Excessive speed on icy or rural highways greatly increases crash severity.
• Wear your seatbelt: Seatbelt use is critical on high-speed rural highways with severe collisions.

For additional information on statewide safety programs, the North Dakota Department of Transportation provides driver resources, crash statistics, and seasonal travel updates.

What to Do After a North Dakota Car Crash

Knowing the correct steps after a collision can protect your health and legal rights:

1. Move to a safe location if possible.
2. Call 911 to report the crash and request medical assistance if needed.
3. Exchange insurance and contact information.
4. Document the scene with photos and notes about conditions.
5. Do not admit fault before consulting with an attorney.
6. Request your official crash report. Local Accident Reports can help you obtain it.

You can also explore national crash prevention programs, vehicle recall information, and safety data through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Get Help After a Car Accident in North Dakota

If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash on one of North Dakota’s most dangerous roads or intersections, you do not have to face the aftermath alone. At Local Accident Reports, we provide up-to-date crash information and connect you with trusted North Dakota attorneys who understand local laws and can protect your rights.

Whether you are dealing with medical expenses, lost wages, or the painful loss of a family member, the right legal support can make all the difference. Take the first step toward recovery today.

Call Local Accident Reports at (888) 657-1460 for a free case referral to an experienced accident attorney near you.