Tennessee Intersections

Tennessee’s growing population and expanding cities mean more vehicles are hitting the roads every year. While transportation is vital for daily life, some intersections across the state have become increasingly hazardous for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. From downtown Nashville to suburban Memphis, particular crossroads have earned a reputation for serious crashes and tragic outcomes. These intersections aren’t just frustrating; they’re deadly.

The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) and the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) report hundreds of collisions at specific intersections annually. Many involve multiple vehicles, high speeds, or dangerous turning movements. Some result in long backups and serious injuries, while others tragically end in fatalities.

The intersections highlighted in this report have one thing in common: a consistent and alarming crash history over the last five years. Whether it’s an overworked interchange or a busy commercial corner, these spots demand extra caution.

Local Accident Reports reviewed crash totals, fatality data, traffic patterns, and roadway design to identify the most dangerous intersections in the state. We also considered contributing factors like heavy freight traffic, poor visibility, confusing signage, and pedestrian activity.

Top 10 Deadliest Intersections in Tennessee

If you’ve ever driven through Nashville during rush hour or navigated suburban Memphis on a Saturday afternoon, you know how chaotic it can get. Add in aggressive drivers, distracted motorists, and outdated road infrastructure, and the risk of a crash goes up dramatically. These intersections affect daily commuters, weekend travelers, emergency responders, and commercial drivers alike. The danger is not limited to one part of the state—crashes are happening from Knoxville to Murfreesboro to Memphis.

This list is not meant to scare you but to inform and empower you. If you know which intersections are high-risk, you can take extra care when driving through them. That could mean slowing down, avoiding certain turns, or planning alternate routes during peak traffic times. In the following section, we’ll break down the 10 deadliest intersections in Tennessee based on five years of crash reports. We’ll explore where they’re located, why they’re so dangerous, and what patterns are putting motorists at risk.

1. I-24 & I-40 Interchange (“The Downtown Loop”), Nashville – Davidson County

Located in the heart of Nashville, the I-24 and I-40 interchange—often referred to as “The Downtown Loop”- is a massive, high-speed nexus where two major interstates converge. With more than 350 crashes and at least 12 recorded fatalities between 2017 and 2022, this area is notorious for congestion, especially during morning and evening rush hours. Drivers encounter complex merging lanes, short reaction times, and frequent weaving conflicts. The interchange is also a main route for freight trucks and commuter traffic heading toward key destinations like Nissan Stadium and the Gulch, increasing the risk of serious multi-vehicle accidents.

2. I-40 & I-65 Interchange (“East Loop”), Nashville

The I-40 and I-65 interchange is another major Nashville junction that poses a significant hazard to drivers. Known as the “East Loop,” this spot sees more than 300 crashes and 10+ fatalities in recent years. This interchange handles both local and long-distance traffic, including semis, tourists, and daily commuters. Drivers must navigate narrow lanes and constant merging while trying to enter or exit multiple ramps. Congestion builds rapidly during peak hours, and sudden slowdowns frequently lead to rear-end collisions and sideswipes.

3. I-40 & I-240 Interchange, Memphis – Shelby County

In Memphis, the I-40 and I-240 interchange is a primary connector for vehicles heading east toward Nashville or south to Mississippi. The five-year crash tally sits at over 280, with nine or more fatal outcomes. The area experiences an exceptionally high volume of freight trucks and daily commuters. The interchange’s tight curves, combined with aggressive lane shifting and limited visibility, make it a hotspot for serious collisions. It’s particularly treacherous during rainstorms, when visibility and stopping distance are compromised.

4. US-70/Charlotte Pike & Old Hickory Blvd, Nashville

This busy commercial corridor in West Nashville serves as a connector between residential neighborhoods, retail centers, and access routes to I-40. The intersection of US-70 (Charlotte Pike) and Old Hickory Boulevard has recorded over 240 collisions and at least seven fatalities in recent years. With multiple turn lanes, inconsistent traffic signal timing, and high volumes of both local and pass-through drivers, the intersection regularly sees rear-end and angle crashes. Pedestrians crossing between strip malls or bus stops are also at elevated risk.

5. US-64 & Germantown Road, Memphis

US-64 and Germantown Road intersect in a suburban zone near Wolfchase Galleria, one of Memphis’s busiest shopping areas. This intersection is surrounded by chain restaurants, gas stations, and multiple shopping center entrances, all contributing to constant stop-and-go traffic. Between 2017 and 2022, more than 220 crashes occurred here, with at least seven fatalities. Frequent left turns, distracted driving, and impatient motorists attempting to beat the light lead to a high number of T-bone and sideswipe accidents.

6. Murfreesboro Pike & Donelson Pike, Nashville

Situated close to Nashville International Airport, this intersection handles a complex mix of passenger vehicles, airport shuttles, and commercial trucks. The area has become increasingly congested as nearby commercial development continues to grow. Over 200 crashes and six fatalities have occurred at this junction, making it one of the city’s most hazardous. The combination of multiple turning lanes, inconsistent traffic flow, and limited time to cross through lights creates a recipe for accidents, especially during early morning and late evening travel windows.

7. I-24 & US-231, Murfreesboro – Rutherford County

The I-24 and US-231 junction sits in a rapidly expanding suburb of Nashville, where increased housing and retail development have put serious strain on infrastructure. More than 190 accidents and six fatalities have been documented here over the past five years. As a key commuter corridor, the area is vulnerable to sudden slowdowns, aggressive merging, and speed variance among vehicles. With limited shoulder space and few alternate routes, even minor crashes can result in major delays and secondary accidents.

8. Poplar Avenue & Ridgeway Road, Memphis

Poplar Avenue is one of the main east-west arteries in Memphis, and its intersection with Ridgeway Road runs directly through a dense retail zone. With shopping centers, medical offices, and restaurants on every corner, the area sees a constant flow of both vehicles and pedestrians. The intersection logged more than 180 crashes and five fatalities between 2017 and 2022. Drivers often struggle with visibility due to multiple driveway entrances, and pedestrians crossing between businesses face a high risk due to limited crosswalk timing and distracted drivers.

9. I-65 & Harding Place, Nashville

This junction in South Nashville serves as a vital connector for commuters traveling to and from I-65. The exit and entrance ramps at Harding Place often become bottlenecks, especially during rush hour. With more than 170 crashes and at least five deaths on record, this area poses serious risks due to high-speed traffic, limited merging space, and poor lane discipline. Sudden lane changes and tailgating are frequent contributors to collisions here.

10. I-75 & I-640 Interchange, Knoxville – Knox County

Rounding out the list is the I-75 and I-640 interchange in Knoxville, a key transition zone where interstate drivers from Kentucky, Chattanooga, and North Carolina converge. The five-year data shows over 160 crashes and four fatalities. What makes this area particularly dangerous is its shifting mix of rural and urban traffic patterns. During winter, icy road conditions and fog frequently reduce visibility, while during the summer months, construction zones and high-speed lane changes increase crash potential.

Safety Tips for Driving in Tennessee’s Most Dangerous Areas

Whether you’re navigating the tight curves of U.S. Route 129 near the Smoky Mountains or the busy interchanges of I-24 through Nashville, driving in Tennessee comes with serious risks. Staying safe requires more than just knowing the rules—it requires awareness, preparation, and caution, especially in known high-crash zones.

Here are some safety recommendations for drivers across the state:

• Slow down in high-risk areas. Speeding contributes to many crashes on Tennessee highways, particularly on I-40, I-75, and U.S. 70.
  
  
• Avoid distractions. Tennessee law bans handheld phone use for drivers, but distractions like GPS adjustments and eating are still dangerous.
  
  
• Watch for wildlife, especially at night. Rural areas across East and Middle Tennessee see frequent deer collisions, particularly in the fall.
  
  
• Give large vehicles extra room. Tractor-trailers are common along major freight corridors like I-81 and I-24—cutting them off or tailgating can be deadly.
  
  
• Never drive under the influence. Alcohol- and drug-related crashes remain a top cause of fatalities across the state.
  
  
• Check weather conditions. Ice, fog, and heavy rain can affect visibility and traction, especially in hilly or mountainous regions.

By staying cautious and defensive, especially in areas known for high crash rates, Tennessee drivers can reduce their risk and protect everyone on the road.

What To Do After a Car Accident in Tennessee

Car crashes can be overwhelming, especially when they happen on high-speed interstates or busy intersections. If you’re involved in an accident anywhere in Tennessee, knowing what to do immediately afterward can help protect your health, finances, and future legal options.

Here’s what to do if you’re in a crash:

Your future actions. Here’s what you should do immediately after a collision:

1. Ensure Your Safety: Move to a safe area if possible to prevent further collisions.
   
   
2. Call the authorities: Check for injuries and call 911 or the Tennessee Highway Patrol immediately if anyone is hurt.
   
   
3. Exchange Information: Exchange contact information and insurance details with all parties involved.
   
   
4. Document the scene: Document the accident scene with photos, videos, and note any relevant weather conditions that may have contributed to the accident.
   
   
5. Be careful when giving a statement: Avoid admitting fault or making statements that could be misinterpreted. Be cooperative, but wait until you consult a South Carolina car accident lawyer before giving a recorded statement.
   
   
6. Get a copy of your report: Request your official crash report and reach out to Local Accident Reports for help connecting with trusted South Carolina injury attorneys.
   
   
7. Contact a Tennessee car accident lawyer: At Local Accident Reports, we can connect you with a skilled car accident lawyer who can help protect your rights, evaluate your case, help you deal with the other parties’ insurance providers, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

The aftermath of a crash can be confusing and emotional, but staying calm and following these steps can make a big difference in your recovery.

Connect with a Local Tennessee Car Accident Attorney

At Local Accident Reports, our mission is to provide up-to-date accident news and safety information while helping injured victims understand their legal options. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a Tennessee car crash, it’s essential to speak with someone who understands the law and can help you move forward.

We maintain a nationwide network of experienced local personal injury attorneys who are ready to help you:

• Understand your rights after a crash
• Pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
• Navigate insurance company negotiations and legal deadlines

If you’ve been in an accident in Tennessee, don’t hesitate to get the legal support you need. Contact Local Accident Reports by calling 1-888-657-1460 today, and let us connect you with a qualified attorney in your area for a no-obligation consultation. Remember, getting the answers you deserve shouldn’t come at a cost. Reach out now!