blog home Traffic Safety Top Winter Driving Dangers in Omaha: Worst Roads and Common Mistakes to Avoid 

Top Winter Driving Dangers in Omaha: Worst Roads and Common Mistakes to Avoid 

By Jason Bottlinger on February 13, 2025

Driving in Omaha during the winter can be tricky, with snow and ice making the roads slippery and dangerous. The city’s unique weather patterns, combined with steep inclines and frequent traffic congestion, frequently catch drivers off guard. But there are steps you can take to minimize dangers while on the winter roads.

Omaha’s Most Dangerous Intersections for Winter Driving

Certain intersections in Omaha are notorious for causing challenging driving conditions in the winter months. You can navigate these areas with more care by reducing your speed, increasing following distance, and avoiding sudden braking:

• 72nd & Dodge Street is a particularly treacherous intersection. The high traffic volume and frequent stop-and-go conditions increase accident risks.
• I-80 & I-680 Interchange is another hazardous area. Overpasses here freeze faster, creating black ice. Merging lanes can be tricky in snowy conditions.
• Dodge Street Expressway is known for its high-speed traffic. Sudden slowdowns can occur, increasing the risk of losing control on icy surfaces.
• Saddle Creek Road & Leavenworth Street is unpredictable, with sharp curves and mixed traffic. Navigating this intersection requires extra caution.

Common Mistakes Omaha Drivers Make in Winter

Winter weather in Omaha can turn a simple drive into a dangerous excursion. As temperatures drop, local drivers face unique challenges that require extra caution and preparation.

Failing to Clear Snow From Vehicles

Snow on vehicles can be more than just a nuisance—it’s a safety hazard. Failing to clear snow reduces visibility and increases the risk of accidents. That’s why it’s important to remove all snow and ice from windows, mirrors, and lights before driving. This improves visibility and prevents snow from flying off and obstructing other drivers’ views.

Driving 4WD and AWD Vehicles

Many drivers assume that four-wheel drive (4WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) makes them invulnerable to winter conditions. But these systems don’t improve braking or cornering ability when you’re driving on ice.

While 4WD and AWD can provide better traction on snowy roads, they do not eliminate the risk of sliding. So it’s necessary to maintain cautious driving habits, regardless of your vehicle’s capabilities. Don’t let a false sense of security lead to overconfidence; always drive according to road conditions, and remember that no technology can replace careful driving.

Improperly Using Cruise Control

Avoid using cruise control in winter conditions. Cruise control can be convenient, but using it on icy roads can be dangerous. It reduces the driver’s reaction time and can cause loss of control if the vehicle starts to skid. Instead, maintain manual control over your speed to better adapt to changing road conditions.

Failing to Reduce Speed

Driving slower reduces stopping distances, which is a crucial factor when roads are slick with ice. It’s important to remember that speed limits are set for ideal conditions, so it could also be necessary to drive well below these limits during times of inclement winter weather.

Slower speeds also help prevent skidding—but it’s also easier to correct a skid when traveling at a lower speed. If you find yourself skidding, remain calm and do not slam on the brakes, as sudden braking can worsen the skid. You should steer gently in the skid’s direction, which means turning your wheel in the direction you want to go. You should also ease off the accelerator since letting go of the gas can help regain traction.

Failing to Increase the Following Distance

By maintaining a greater distance, you can significantly reduce the risk of rear-end collisions, which are common in such conditions. Some tips are to increase your usual following distance to accommodate icy conditions, keep an eye on the car ahead and anticipate their movements, and, of course, always be prepared to stop suddenly if necessary.

Sudden Braking

Sudden braking can cause loss of control, especially on icy roads. It’s important to brake gently and gradually to maintain traction and control over your vehicle. Anticipate stops in advance by looking ahead and planning your braking long before you need to stop.

Check Weather Conditions Before Heading Out

Winter preparedness means having a plan. Check weather forecasts regularly to avoid unnecessary travel during storms. It’s also a good idea to keep an emergency kit in your vehicle that includes blankets, a flashlight, and non-perishable snacks. Maintain a full gas tank to prevent fuel lines from freezing. Make sure to charge your phone before heading out since it’s vital for communication in emergencies.

Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter Driving

Start by checking your tires. Ensure they have adequate tread depth and are properly inflated. You can talk to your mechanic about switching to winter tires, which are designed to handle snow and ice better than regular tires. Check that your windshield wipers are in good condition, and replace them if necessary. On this note, you should also fill your windshield washer fluid using a winter-specific formula that won’t freeze. Additionally, test your vehicle’s battery and make sure it has sufficient charge; cold temperatures can reduce battery efficiency, so it’s crucial to have a reliable power source.

Our Omaha Car Accident Lawyer Is Here to Help

If you’ve been injured in an automobile accident that was a result of another person’s careless behavior, you need an Omaha car accident lawyer who has experience successfully handling cases like yours. At Bottlinger Law L.L.C., lead attorney Jason Bottlinger belongs to the exclusive Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum, a platform that only accepts attorneys who have won substantial settlements for their clients.

At Bottlinger Law L.L.C., we treat everyone with respect and compassion and are ready to help you with your case. Call (402) 505-8234 today to schedule a FREE consultation with our law firm.