Nebraska’s Bicycle Laws: What Cyclists and Drivers Need to Know

Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a daily driver, understanding Nebraska’s bicycle laws is essential for keeping everyone safe on the road. With more Nebraskans choosing bikes for commuting, exercise, and recreation, knowing the rules helps prevent accidents and can protect your legal rights when collisions occur.

At Hauptman, O’Brien, Wolf & Lathrop, LLC, our mission is to help injury victims and their families after serious accidents. We also believe that prevention starts with education. Here’s what you need to know about bicycle laws in Nebraska.

Are Bicycles Considered Vehicles in Nebraska?

Yes. Under Nebraska law, bicycles are considered vehicles. That means cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists when using the road. Drivers must treat bicycles with the same care and respect as other cars.

Legal Differences Between Motor Vehicles and Bicycles in Nebraska

While bicycles and motor vehicles are both considered vehicles under Nebraska law, there are important legal distinctions. Bicycles are not required to be registered, insured, or licensed, and cyclists do not need a driver’s license to operate a bike. Additionally, certain laws—such as those related to speed limits, lane usage, and equipment requirements—apply differently to cyclists. For example, bicycles must have specific lighting and reflectors for nighttime use but are not subject to emissions standards or licensing requirements. Understanding these differences helps ensure that both cyclists and drivers navigate the road legally and safely.

Key Bicycle Rules and Regulations in Nebraska

Whether you’re a daily commuter or a weekend rider, understanding the rules of the road is essential for safe and legal cycling. Nebraska has specific laws designed to protect cyclists and promote safe interactions with motorists. Below are some of the most important bicycle laws every rider should know before heading out.

Where Cyclists Can Ride

In Nebraska, cyclists are generally permitted to ride on all public roads unless explicitly restricted, such as on certain highways or interstates. Specifically, bicycles are prohibited on Interstate highways and fully access-controlled freeways. For example, cyclists are not allowed on Interstate 80 (I-80) and Interstate 680 (I-680). Additionally, local authorities may impose further restrictions on specific roads within their jurisdictions. Riders should stay as far to the right side of the roadway as is safely possible. However, there are important exceptions to this rule. Cyclists may move toward the center of the lane when making a left turn, avoiding road hazards, overtaking another vehicle, or when the lane is too narrow to be safely shared with a motor vehicle. These guidelines aim to balance bicycle safety with smooth traffic flow.

Riding Two Abreast

Nebraska law allows two cyclists to ride side-by-side in a single traffic lane. This can improve visibility and safety when done appropriately. However, when more than two cyclists are riding together, they must ride single file unless they are on designated bike paths. This regulation helps prevent congestion and ensures safer interactions between cyclists and motorists on shared roads.

Lights and Visibility

To ensure safety during nighttime riding, Nebraska’s state law requires bicycles to be equipped with proper lighting and reflectors. A white front light visible from at least 500 feet must be used, along with a red rear reflector—or optionally, a red light—visible from 100 to 600 feet. In addition to these requirements, cyclists are encouraged to wear reflective clothing or gear, particularly during dawn, dusk, or inclement weather, to enhance their visibility to other road users.

Helmets

While Nebraska does not legally require cyclists to wear helmets, wearing one is highly recommended. Helmets can significantly reduce the risk of head injuries in the event of a crash or fall. This is especially important for children and teenagers, who are more vulnerable to serious injuries. Promoting helmet use is a key aspect of fostering a culture of safety among cyclists of all ages.

Regarding motorcycle helmet laws, significant changes took effect in Nebraska starting January 1, 2024. Under Legislative Bill 138, motorcyclists aged 21 and over are permitted to ride without a helmet if they meet specific conditions:

• They must wear eye protection while riding.
• They must have completed a Basic Motorcycle Safety Course, such as the Basic Rider Course (BRC), Basic Rider Course 2 (BRC2), or Returning Rider Basic Rider Course (RRBRC).

These prerequisites aim to balance personal freedom with safety considerations. However, it’s important to note that while helmets are no longer mandatory for qualifying riders, they remain a critical safety measure. Helmets have been proven to significantly reduce the severity of head injuries in the event of an accident. Therefore, even with the option to ride without one, wearing a helmet is strongly recommended to enhance rider safety.

DUI Laws Apply to Cyclists

Bicyclists in Nebraska are subject to the same DUI (Driving Under the Influence) laws as motorists. Operating a bicycle while impaired by alcohol or drugs is illegal and can result in serious legal consequences, including fines, license penalties, or even jail time. Cyclists should always ride sober and stay alert to ensure their own safety and the safety of others on the road.

By following Nebraska’s bicycle laws, cyclists can stay safer, avoid legal trouble, and contribute to a more respectful and predictable road environment for everyone. Whether it’s riding responsibly, staying visible, or wearing a helmet, each choice plays a part in making cycling a safer experience across the state.

What Drivers Need to Know Regarding Bicycle Riders in Nebraska

Drivers play a critical role in keeping Nebraska’s roads safe for everyone, including cyclists. As bicycles are legally considered vehicles, cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers. When sharing the road, motorists must exercise caution and patience to avoid potentially dangerous situations.

One of the most important rules is to always give cyclists at least three feet of space when passing. Attempting to “squeeze by” or pass too closely can cause accidents leading to serious injuries. It’s equally important to never honk at cyclists, as this can startle them and lead to loss of control.

At intersections and during lane changes, drivers must yield to cyclists just as they would to other motorized vehicles. Always check mirrors and blind spots for bicycles before turning or merging.

Failing to follow these guidelines can lead to traffic citations, and more seriously, legal liability if a cyclist is injured due to driver negligence. Respecting cyclists’ rights isn’t just the law—it’s essential for safer, more respectful roads across Nebraska.

Injured in a Bicycle Accident? Know Your Rights!

Even when cyclists follow the law, they’re vulnerable to serious injuries in collisions. If you or a loved one was hit by a vehicle, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost income
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Long-term care or rehabilitation

Our experienced personal injury attorneys have helped countless cyclists throughout Nebraska stand up to insurance companies and negligent drivers. We know how to investigate bicycle accident claims, gather key evidence, and fight for the maximum recovery you deserve.

We’re Here to Help!

Hauptman, O’Brien, Wolf & Lathrop, LLC has been representing injury victims for over 40 years. If you’ve been involved in a bicycle accident, don’t wait to get the support you need. Your consultation is free, and you pay nothing unless we win your case. We serve Nebraskans through our offices in Omaha, South Omaha, and Bellevue, as well as Iowans through our office in Council Bluffs.

Call 402-241-5020 or contact us online to schedule your free case evaluation.