Effective July 19, 2024, Nebraska has implemented a significant change to its traffic laws regarding turns at red lights, specifically targeting turns on red arrow signals. This update affects all drivers statewide and is designed to enhance safety for motorists and pedestrians at intersections.
What Is the New Rule?
- No Turns on Red Arrows: Drivers are now prohibited from making right or left turns at intersections when facing a red arrow signal. This applies regardless of traffic conditions or the presence of signage.
- Mandatory Full Stop: When encountering a steady red arrow, drivers must come to a complete stop at the stop line, crosswalk, or before entering the intersection, and remain stopped until a green arrow is displayed.
- No Exception for Right Turns: Previously, Nebraska law allowed right turns on red arrows after a complete stop, similar to turns on a solid red light. This is no longer permitted—drivers must wait for the green arrow.
What Hasn’t Changed?
- Right Turn on Solid Red Light: Drivers can still make a right turn at a solid (circular) red light after coming to a complete stop, provided there is no sign prohibiting the turn and the way is clear of pedestrians and cross traffic.
- Left Turn on Red (One-Way to One-Way): Left turns on red from a one-way street to another one-way street are still allowed after a complete stop, unless otherwise posted.
Why Was the Law Changed?
- Safety Concerns: The Nebraska Department of Transportation and local officials cite increased intersection crashes and pedestrian fatalities as major reasons for the update. Red arrows are typically used at intersections where visibility is limited, traffic volumes are high, or pedestrian activity is significant.
- Clarifying Confusion: There was widespread confusion among drivers about whether turns on red arrows were legal. The new law removes ambiguity, making it clear that a red arrow always means “no turn”.
How Will the Law Be Enforced?
- Standard Traffic Enforcement: Law enforcement agencies, such as the Lincoln Police Department, have stated they will enforce the new rule just as they do other traffic laws. Violations could result in citations and fines.
- Education Campaigns: Transportation officials are working to educate the public about the change through media, signage, and outreach, as many drivers were previously unaware of the updated rule.
Key Points for Drivers
- Red Arrow = No Turn: If you see a red arrow—right or left—do not turn. Wait for the green arrow.
- Solid Red Light: Right turns are still allowed after a full stop, unless posted otherwise.
- Pay Attention to Signals: At intersections with both arrows and solid lights, follow the direction of the signal facing your lane.
- Increased Enforcement: Expect law enforcement to monitor compliance, especially in the initial months after the change.
Common Questions
| Scenario | Old Law | New Law (as of July 19, 2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Right turn on solid red light | Allowed after stop | Allowed after stop |
| Right turn on red arrow | Allowed after stop | Not allowed |
| Left turn on red arrow | Allowed after stop | Not allowed |
| Left turn on red from one-way to one-way street | Allowed after stop | Allowed after stop (unless posted) |
Why Does This Matter?
- Reduces Crashes: The law aims to decrease intersection collisions and protect vulnerable road users, especially as Nebraska has seen a rise in traffic and pedestrian fatalities this year.
- Consistent Rules: Aligns Nebraska with other states that already prohibit turns on red arrows, reducing confusion for out-of-state drivers and locals alike.
Nebraska’s new rule is straightforward: no right or left turns are allowed on red arrow signals—wait for the green arrow. The change is part of a broader push for safer streets and clearer traffic laws. Drivers should remain alert, follow the updated signals, and expect increased enforcement as the law takes effect.
For more information, visit your local Department of Transportation website or city traffic resources.
Sources:
- https://www.lincoln.ne.gov/News/2024/7/16
- https://klin.com/2024/07/19/394279/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v_132pG-0LU
- https://nebraskalegislature.gov/laws/statutes.php?statute=60-6%2C123
- https://www.reddit.com/r/Omaha/comments/1e5u6ii/nebraska_outlaws_right_or_left_on_red_arrow/
