Two Crashes at 78th and Blondo in Omaha: What Drivers Should Know About Construction Zone Accidents

Early Sunday morning, two separate crashes happened just minutes apart at the same location near 78th and Blondo streets in Omaha, sending three people to the hospital. According to Omaha police, the first crash involved a scooter rider who traveled through cones and reached a section of roadway where the pavement had been removed. That rider suffered minor injuries. A short time later, an SUV reportedly did the same thing, leading to a second crash. The SUV driver left the scene, while two women inside the vehicle were taken to the hospital with minor injuries. Police believe alcohol may have been a factor in both incidents, and the investigation is ongoing.

Why Construction Zones Can Be Especially Dangerous

Road construction areas present unique hazards, particularly at night and in the early morning hours when visibility is low. Cones, barriers, uneven surfaces, and missing pavement can catch drivers and riders off guard. When signage is unclear or warnings are hard to see, even careful travelers can find themselves in dangerous situations.

If you regularly drive through areas under construction, a few habits can help keep you safe:

Slow down well before you reach marked work zones.
Stay alert for cones, barricades, and changes in the road surface.
Avoid distractions so you can respond quickly to unexpected conditions.
Never drive after drinking—impairment dramatically reduces reaction time and judgment.

What to Do If You’re Hurt in a Hit-and-Run

When a driver leaves the scene of a crash, it can feel overwhelming for the people left behind. Under Nebraska law, drivers involved in an accident that causes injury are required to stop, provide information, and render aid. Leaving the scene can carry serious legal consequences.

If you’ve been injured and the other driver flees, there are still steps you can take to protect yourself:

Call 911 and request medical attention, even if injuries seem minor.
Write down everything you remember about the vehicle, including color, make, and any part of the license plate.
Ask witnesses for their contact information and what they saw.
Report the incident to police so there is an official record.

Many Nebraska auto policies include uninsured motorist coverage, which may help cover your injuries and losses when an at-fault driver cannot be identified or located. Reviewing your coverage with a knowledgeable professional can help you understand your options.

Protecting Your Rights After Any Crash

In the moments after an accident, it’s easy to overlook steps that can matter later. A common mistake is assuming that “minor” injuries don’t require medical evaluation. Some injuries, including concussions and soft-tissue damage, may not show symptoms right away. Seeing a doctor promptly protects both your health and your ability to document what happened.

Nebraska follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means an injured person may still recover compensation as long as they are less than 50 percent at fault—though any recovery can be reduced by their share of responsibility. Because fault determinations can be complex, it’s wise to avoid speculating about blame or giving recorded statements before understanding your rights.

A few general tips can help after any collision:

Document the scene with photos if you are able.
Keep records of medical visits, treatment, and related expenses.
Be cautious about quick settlement offers before you know the full extent of your injuries.
Speak with an attorney before signing anything from an insurance company.