Reno’s large population and the number of people who commute to work can make getting through traffic a bit of a challenge for both residents and visiting drivers.

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Reno car insurance cost

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How bad is Reno traffic?

Although traffic in Reno isn’t as bad as in Las Vegas, congestion can be a real problem due to a high population, commuting drivers, and weather events. It’s estimated that the average driver in Reno loses 18 hours sitting in traffic each year, costing each driver $383 in wasted gas and wear and tear repairs.

The traffic in some areas of Reno is worse than in others. The north side of Washoe County experiences higher congestion than, say, the south side of Reno. Accidents on the freeway and blocked-off streets for events are major causes of traffic backup, but the volume of tourists unfamiliar with the area and unclear road signs may also contribute to congestion in Reno.

MORE: The five best road trip destinations in Nevada

Why is Reno traffic so bad?

Reno traffic can fluctuate based on where you are in the city, the time of day, and the particular road conditions. Ultimately, in a city like Reno with a large population, there are bound to be more drivers on the road—and more cars mean more accidents. Here are a few other factors that affect the traffic in Reno.

Population size

The second-largest metropolitan area in Nevada, Reno has a population of around 272,000 people. Many of the drivers in Reno also commute to work, adding to the volume of vehicles taking to the roads, especially during morning and evening rush hours. With so many people trying to get to the same area of town at the same time, accidents abound.

Road conditions

With 50,000 miles of roads, streets, and major highways, Nevada’s mountainous landscape and storms have a huge effect on the driving experience in Reno. Whether rain is reducing visibility on I-80 or you’re trying to pass a car on a curved mountain road on a Nevada road trip, the potential risk for an accident is self-evident.

Driving habits

From rush hour traffic to congestion resulting from big events, there are many reasons drivers may experience increased traffic. Reno drivers have a daily commute of 19.5 minutes on average—the longer drivers are on the road, the higher the potential for accidents.

MORE: The best type of car insurance to get if you commute long distances

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How to navigate Reno traffic like a pro

Getting stuck in traffic is a pain, but so is getting in an accident. To avoid both, follow these useful tips to steer clear of congestion in Reno.

Try not to drive during rush hour. If you’re out on the road in Reno between 6:00 am and 10:00 am and 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm, you’re more likely to hit traffic. If you can’t get around having to drive during these times, follow the locals’ advice: avoid the Spaghetti Bowl at rush hour, and you’ll be fine.

Take minor roads or alternate routes. Most drivers will hit the most direct route on the major roadways to get where they need to go. If you plan an alternate route through Reno instead of taking I-80, you can skip congestion and have a less stressful drive.

Stay updated on traffic conditions by listening to the radio or using a traffic app. Tune your car radio to 780 KKOH for all the traffic updates in Reno as they happen.

Stay focused. Sometimes, you just have to accept the traffic and let it carry you along. Even when you’re stuck in a traffic jam, avoid distractions such as eating, listening to loud music, or using your cell phone. Keep your full attention on the road so you can avoid accidents, traffic tickets, and an increase in your insurance premiums.

MORE:

The 3 best apps for avoiding traffic jams

Prepare for Reno traffic by updating your car insurance

If you’re not sure if you have the best coverage for Reno’s traffic, it might be time to

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FAQs

Is Reno hard to drive in?

Driving in Reno can be stressful, especially if you’re trying to get off the I-80! By using a traffic app or Google Maps, you can plan out your route ahead of time to save you stress. The weather can also pose a challenge—make sure you’re prepared to drive through rainstorms in the summer and heavy snow in the winter!

What is the best time to drive through Reno?

Avoid rush hour as much as possible—anytime before 6:00 am, between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm, or after 7:00 pm should be easier to navigate if you want to avoid Reno traffic. Make sure you check for road closures due to weather and stay updated on traffic conditions to prepare you for the road conditions.

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