Rules of the Road & Trail
Bike Walk Nebraska's envisions a state where walking and biking becomes safe and accessible for all, contributing to "The Good Life." Explore the legal framework and initiatives shaping a healthier and more sustainable way of life in Nebraska.
The laws listed here are for informational purposes only. The legal information on our website is not a substitute for the primary sources of law in your jurisdiction or the personalized advice of an attorney. Bike Walk Nebraska is not responsible for any exclusions, omissions, deletions, or changes of relevant laws. If you have questions or concerns regarding your state or local laws, consult those primary sources or an attorney.
Legal FAQs:
Do I have to wear a helmet when I ride my bike?
Nebraska has no helmet law for bicycles. It is legal for all persons of any age to operate a bicycle without wearing a helmet unless otherwise provided by a municipal regulation. But, we believe it’s always a good idea to keep you safe.
Can I ride my bike on the sidewalk?
Nebraska does not have a statute specifically prohibiting riding your bike on the sidewalk. However, some cities have specific areas, usually with high pedestrian traffic, where bicycling on sidewalks is not permitted. We encourage cities to use signage to communicate this in addition to local ordinances.
What do I do if I'm in a crash?
First, stay calm and call 911. Here is a detailed guide on what to do if involved in a crash. It is important to always file a crash report if at all possible. Unreported crashes hinder the ability of accountability and advocacy across the state.
What should I do when driving alongside a cyclist?
It is required by law that you pass with at least three feet of space between the widest point of your vehicle and the widest point of the person on a bike and must signal their intention to pass. Other best practices involve moving over as far as possible within passing regulations and not honking at a person on a bike while driving.
Can I ride my e-bike on trails?
It depends on the trail. If you're within a city, we recommend looking at the city ordinances. If you're within public lands or a park, you need to check directly with the managing office.
Standard e-bikes falling within the three classes instituted by the state in 2023 are not considered motorized vehicles. Please note that this does not include anything with gas motors or after-market add-ons as these fall outside of Bike Walk Nebraska's policy scope.
What are the classifications of e-bikes within Nebraska?
What are the rules of the road for cyclists?
A person riding a bicycle has all of the rights and responsibilities of the driver of a vehicle under Nebraska’s Rules of the Road. Riders should ride as near to the right-hand curb or right-hand edge of the roadway as practicable.
Click here for the detailed statute. If you want to see what is included in the Nebraska Driver’s Manual about bicycles, click here. (Check out the back cover to see our influence!)
Do pedestrians have the right-of-way in a crosswalk?
Generally, yes, but the person walking also has responsibilities under Nebraska law, including “(n)o pedestrian shall suddenly leave a curb or other place of safety and walk or run into the path of a vehicle which is so close that it is impossible for the driver to stop.” Click here for the detailed statute.
Do bicyclists have the right of way in the crosswalk?
Bike Walk Nebraska successfully advocated for a change to state statute in 2017 on this issue. The statute now says, “(4) A bicyclist riding a bicycle on a sidewalk or across a roadway or shoulder in a crosswalk shall have all the rights and duties applicable to a pedestrian under the same circumstances but shall yield the right-of-way to pedestrians. Nothing in this subsection relieves the bicyclist or the driver of a vehicle from the duty to exercise care.”
Is there certain equipment I’m required to have on my bike?
Nebraska law requires a front headlight when riding at night, a rear red reflector and brakes in good working order. Click here for the detailed statute.
Other Nebraska laws that may be helpful:
- Safe Passing Law (3 Foot Passing Law)
- Bicycling Under the Influence
- Authorization for Local Regulation of Bicycles
- Dooring Law
- Bicycle as a Vehicle
- Pedestrians’ Right-of-Way in Crosswalk
- Drivers to Exercise Due Care with Pedestrian
- Pedestrians on highways and roadways; sidewalks and shoulders
Bike Walk Nebraska closely tracks Unicameral bills annually, and those interested in participating can stay updated through their website and social media for opportunities to engage and influence pedestrian and cycling safety legislation in the state.
