Driving through the Cornhusker State may seem like a peaceful ride through America’s heartland, but some Nebraska roads see more than their fair share of serious and fatal accidents. Here are five of the most treacherous roads and intersections you’ll want to drive cautiously on when traveling through Nebraska.
1. Interstate 80
Stretching from California to New Jersey, Interstate 80 passes through the entire state of Nebraska. As the only major interstate highway in the state, it sees extremely heavy traffic, especially semi-trucks and other large commercial vehicles.
The 75 mph speed limit also contributes to the high number of accidents on I-80 in Nebraska. Other hazards include high winds causing dangerous dust storms in western Nebraska, congestion around Lincoln and Omaha, and distracted driving. Multi-vehicle pileups are common during poor weather conditions or busy travel times.
The Nebraska State Patrol frequently targets this interstate for increased enforcement efforts in order to curb speeding and aggressive driving. But even with these efforts, Interstate 80 sees more fatalities than any other Nebraska road. Drive with extreme caution, maintain safe following distances, and avoid this busy interstate if possible by taking alternate routes.
2. Rural Roads
While urban roads see more total crashes, rural roads account for a disproportionate number of traffic fatalities in Nebraska. Nearly 60% of vehicles on rural roads are large trucks, and slow-moving farm equipment is also common. Other hazards include poor road conditions, soft shoulders, loose gravel, blind intersections, and animals wandering into roadways.
Rural roads also have very limited signage and traffic controls. The relative lack of law enforcement allows some drivers to speed excessively or drive recklessly in other ways. Rollover crashes are particularly common on rural Nebraska roads, accounting for 38% of all traffic fatalities. Drive slowly and defensively at all times on rural roads.
3. 72nd and Dodge Street Intersection, Omaha
The intersection of 72nd and Dodge Street in Omaha sees over 50 crashes per year, making it the city’s most dangerous intersection. Dodge Street’s unusual traffic patterns, which prohibit left turns and feature a midday express lane, confuse some drivers.
Poor road conditions like large potholes also contribute to accidents at this busy junction. Drivers should take extra care when approaching this intersection to avoid an accident. Pay close attention to all signs and signals and watch for other vehicles making unexpected maneuvers.
4. 132nd and L Street Intersection, Omaha
Voted the worst intersection in America by multiple organizations, this complicated 4-way intersection contains an astounding 29 lanes of traffic controlled by 19 traffic lights. With over 70,000 vehicles passing through daily, the potential for crashes is extremely high.
It’s very easy to get confused with the multiple turn lanes and traffic lights at this intersection. Avoiding this intersection altogether is the safest choice. Otherwise, drive with extreme caution, stick to your designated lane, and keep your eyes peeled for other drivers making sudden or illegal moves.
5. 27th and Cornhusker Intersection, Lincoln
Police officers report that the busy intersection of 27th and Cornhusker in Nebraska’s capital city sees a high number of traffic accidents each year. The complicated array of turn lanes and heavy traffic volume at this junction lead to frequent fender benders as well as more serious crashes.
As with many urban intersections, distracted driving is a major factor in many accidents here. Drivers should avoid distractions, follow traffic signals carefully, and watch out for other vehicles making sudden turns or lane changes near this troublesome Lincoln intersection.
Stay Safe on Nebraska’s Roads
If you’ve been injured in a Nebraska auto accident, contact the experienced attorneys at Monge & Associates at (888) 477-0597 for a free case review. With offices in 32 locations across 19 states, including Nebraska, Missouri, and Pennsylvania, we can help you pursue maximum compensation for your injuries.