A major update to Nebraska’s move-over law is now in effect following the passage of LB 530 by the Nebraska Legislature and its signing by Governor Jim Pillen. The changes, which took effect September 3, 2025, expand protections for motorists and vulnerable road users while also increasing speeding fines statewide.
Under the previous law, drivers were required to move over only for emergency vehicles and roadside assistance vehicles on controlled-access highways. The updated law now requires drivers on those highways to move over for any stopped vehicle on the same side of the roadway. If changing lanes is not possible, drivers must slow to a safe speed and proceed cautiously, unless the stopped vehicle is unoccupied and no one is nearby.
The law also strengthens protections for vulnerable road users on all highways. These include pedestrians, construction and maintenance workers, bicyclists, individuals in crosswalks, agricultural vehicles and equipment, and other designated roadway users. If drivers cannot move into another lane, they must reduce speed and pass carefully.
In addition to the move-over changes, LB 530 increases speeding fines for the first time since 1996. New penalties range from $50 for driving 1 to 5 miles per hour over the limit to $400 for driving 36 miles per hour or more above the posted speed. Driving at more than twice the posted speed limit may now be considered evidence of reckless driving.
The legislation also authorizes the Nebraska Department of Transportation to use digital speed limit signs to temporarily lower speed limits during hazardous conditions such as fog, rain, snow, dust, smoke, emergencies, or heavy traffic.
State officials say the changes are designed to improve safety for drivers, roadside workers, and others who share Nebraska’s roadways.
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