Nebraska Emergency Vehicle Light Color Regulations
In Nebraska, the use of colored lights on vehicles is strictly regulated to ensure public safety and clear identification of emergency and service vehicles. These regulations are outlined in the Nebraska Revised Statutes, particularly in Chapter 60, which pertains to motor vehicles.
Authorized Emergency Vehicles
Per Nebraska Revised Statute §60-6,231, authorized emergency vehicles are permitted to display specific colored lights:
- Red or Red and White Lights: A flashing or rotating red light, or a combination of red and white lights, must be displayed on any authorized emergency vehicle when operated in the state.
- Blue Lights: A blue light may also be displayed in conjunction with the red or red and white lights.
Authorized emergency vehicles include police cars, fire trucks, ambulances, and funeral escort vehicles.
Non-Emergency and Service Vehicles
Nebraska law restricts the use of rotating or flashing lights on non-emergency vehicles. According to Nebraska Revised Statute §60-6,230:
- General Prohibition: No person shall operate any motor vehicle with rotating or flashing lights unless specifically permitted by law.
- Rear Lighting: Except for stop lights and directional signals (which may be red, yellow, or amber), no other colors are permitted on the rear of any vehicle.
- Amber Lights: Rotating or flashing amber lights are allowed on vehicles such as those operated by the Department of Transportation, public utilities, and school transportation vehicles under specific conditions.
Auxiliary and Additional Vehicle Lighting
Nebraska statutes also regulate auxiliary lighting on vehicles:
- Spotlights: Vehicles may be equipped with one spotlight, which must be aimed so that no part of the beam is directed to the left of the center of the highway or more than 100 feet ahead of the vehicle.
- Auxiliary Driving Lights: Up to two auxiliary driving lights are permitted, mounted on the front of the vehicle at a height between 12 and 42 inches. These lights must be turned off when approaching another vehicle from either direction.
- Other Lighting Devices: Any other lighting device projecting a beam of light with an intensity greater than 25 candlepower must be directed so that no part of the beam strikes the road surface more than 50 feet from the vehicle.
- Side Cowl or Fender Lights: Vehicles may have up to two side cowl or fender lights emitting amber or white light.
These regulations are detailed in Nebraska Revised Statutes §60-6,219 and §60-6,225.
Underglow and Decorative Lighting
While Nebraska law does not explicitly address underglow lighting, general lighting regulations apply:
- Intensity and Direction: Any lighting device emitting more than 25 candlepower must be directed so that no part of the beam strikes the road surface more than 50 feet from the vehicle.
- Color Restrictions: Only red lights are permitted on the rear of vehicles, except for stop lights and directional signals, which may be red, yellow, or amber.
Therefore, underglow lighting must comply with these intensity and color restrictions to be considered legal.
Compliance and Safety Considerations
When installing lighting on your vehicle in Nebraska, consider the following:
- Legal Use: Ensure that any additional lighting complies with state statutes regarding color, intensity, and placement.
- Visibility: Properly installed and legal lighting can enhance your vehicle's visibility and safety.
- Avoid Impersonation: Unauthorized use of colors reserved for emergency vehicles (such as red or blue) can lead to legal penalties.
For more detailed information, refer to the Nebraska Revised Statutes or consult with local law enforcement agencies.
Note: This guide is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal guidance, consult the Nebraska Department of Public Safety or a legal professional. If something is incorrect and you would like to suggest an edit, please contact us.
