by New Traffic Rules in Nebraska
As of September 3rd, stricter traffic rules and increased fines have come into effect in Nebraska. The law, which previously applied only to official vehicles, now extends to all stopped vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists. Furthermore, drivers who exceed the speed limit now risk receiving fines that have increased by 400 percent compared to previous years.
Expansion of the Move Over Law
All 50 states have their own versions of this law, but in Nebraska, drivers are now required to slow down and move over not only for emergency services such as ambulances or police, but for any vehicles or road users stopped by the roadside. This includes agricultural machinery and even cyclists.
“Make no mistake, when you don’t move over for someone who has car trouble or who has been in an accident on the shoulder, it’s dangerous,” said Lieutenant Jeremy Torson of the Nebraska Patrol.
This change followed a series of dangerous situations and tragedies, including the death of Trooper Kyle McEsee earlier this year.
Strengthened Accountability for Speeding
Along with the expansion of move over rules, legislators have also intensified the fight against speeding. As of 2025, patrol officers have already fined 840 drivers for speeds over 100 mph (160 km/h). Under the new rules, drivers traveling at twice the posted speed limit may be charged with reckless driving instead of a standard speeding ticket.
“It has been frustrating for a long time to only be able to fine someone who is going twice the speed limit. It doesn’t match the severity of the offense,” said Douglas County Sheriff Aaron Hanson.
Changes in Fine Amounts
For the first time in decades, Nebraska has increased its speeding fines. The new fine schedule is as follows:
The law also strengthens penalties for vehicular homicide, which is now classified as a Class IV felony, and grants the Nebraska Department of Transportation the authority to temporarily lower speed limits in specific cases. New signs and policies are already being developed.
“We are working to make Nebraska’s highways as safe as possible,” said NDOT Director Vicki Kramer. “Road safety ultimately depends on each of us making the right choice every time we get behind the wheel.”
These changes reflect a general trend towards enhancing road safety, especially in light of the increasing number of speed-related incidents. The Nebraska Police have already stepped up monitoring of offenders, underscoring the seriousness of these new rules. Such steps may set an example for other states also facing similar problems.
