Nebraska’s traffic laws saw a major update in 2025—especially regarding the rules for making a right turn on red. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe and legal on Nebraska’s roads.
The New Right Turn on Red Rule (2025 Update)
No More Turns on Red Arrow Signals
Beginning July 19, 2024, Nebraska law prohibits all drivers from making right (or left) turns at intersections when facing a steady red arrow signal. This means if you come to an intersection and see a red arrow pointing right, you must come to a complete stop and wait for a green arrow before turning—even if the road is clear and regardless of oncoming traffic or pedestrians. This rule is in effect statewide and applies at both big city intersections and rural highways.
What About Solid Red Lights?
You are still allowed to turn right on a solid red light (the standard “red ball” signal), after coming to a complete stop and yielding to all pedestrians and oncoming vehicles, UNLESS there’s a posted sign saying “No Turn on Red.” This part of the law remains unchanged.
Key Details & Practical Guidance
Red arrows mean NO turning right or left, period. Wait for a green arrow, even if no one seems to be coming.
Solid red (“red ball”) lights—you may turn right after stopping and yielding, unless specifically prohibited by signage.
This applies at ALL intersections with arrow turn signals, including right and left turns, and even when turning onto one-way streets.
Turning from a one-way street onto another one-way is still allowed IF no arrow is present and no sign prohibits it—but always be cautious and yield.
Enforcement & Penalties
Police departments across Nebraska have announced that they will treat violations of this law like any other traffic violation, meaning you can be ticketed and fined if you turn on a red arrow. The law eliminates the need for extra “No Turn on Red” signs where arrows are used.
Why the Change?
The new rule is part of an effort to reduce pedestrian injuries and fatalities, especially given an uptick in deaths over the past year. State officials believe that making the rule uniform—red arrows always mean “no turn”—will reduce confusion and improve compliance at intersections.
In Summary
Red arrow = complete stop; wait for green.
Solid red = right turn allowed after stop and yielding, unless posted otherwise.
Always pay attention to the type of signal you’re facing, and remember: when in doubt, stop and wait for the green arrow. These updates are designed to save lives and make roads safer for everyone.
For the full legal text, consult Nebraska Revised Statute 60-6,123, and check updates through the Department of Motor Vehicles or your city’s transportation website for any further details and local enforcement priorities.
Sources
[1] https://www.lincoln.ne.gov/News/2024/7/16
[2] https://www.3newsnow.com/news/local-news/no-more-turning-at-red-traffic-arrows-in-nebraska-starting-july-19
[3] https://www.klkntv.com/you-can-no-longer-turn-on-a-red-arrow-in-nebraska/
[4] https://jsberrylaw.com/faqs/liability-in-right-turn-accidents-nebraska-road-laws/
[5] https://www.reddit.com/r/Omaha/comments/1e5u6ii/nebraska_outlaws_right_or_left_on_red_arrow/
