Changes to the Interstate 80 in Omaha have caused problems to some drivers and there has been an increase in accidents.
The $10 million project expanded I 80 from the I 480 interchange to 60th Street in hopes of alleviating traffic congestion as people leave downtown after work.
Westbound I 80 expanded to seven lanes south of downtown but funnels to four lanes near the 60th Street exit. The sixth and seventh lanes become an exit at 60th Street, and the fifth lane disappears during a short lane merge after the 60th Street exit. The fifth lane returns in the form of an on ramp from 60th Street. However, the bottleneck around the exit has caused several accidents as the traffic slows.
According to the Nebraska Department of Roads, drivers should adjust in time and there is signage telling drivers that the lane will drop together with painted arrows to direct drivers to merge left.
Nonetheless, the Police Department said there has been almost double the number of accidents and four times more involving injuries in the merge area than during the same time last year.
Officials now say they know about the problem but they think it will go away as drivers become more familiar with the changes and change their driving habits accordingly.
If you or a loved one have been injured in an accident in Omaha, please call the Omaha auto accident attorneys of Harris & Associates, at (402) 397-1200 or contact us online today. We can help you review your compensation options and ensure you are receiving the compensation you deserve.
