Nebraska parking laws: understanding the basics
Even though you are well acquainted with all of the rules of the road and you are safe and abide by the law when driving, you need to make sure you take the same level of care when it comes to parking. There are a number of regulations you need to follow in order to reduce the risk of getting a parking fine. If you park in a no parking zone or an unsafe area, there is even a chance that your vehicle could be towed.
Parking regulations
There are a number of places where you will not be allowed to park at all. These are generally going to be the same throughout the state, but keep in mind that local ordinances can supersede regulations. You will want to know the rules in your area. In general, you are not allowed to park in the following areas.
You cannot park on the road directly beside other vehicles that are parked or that have stopped. This is called double parking, and it can cause a number of problems. First, it will block or slow down the other traffic on the road. Second, it could become a hazard and cause an accident.
You are not allowed to park on a sidewalk, within an intersection, or on a crosswalk. It is illegal to park within 30 feet of traffic signals, yield signs, and stop signs as well. You can never park within 20 feet of an intersection or on bridges. You can’t park within a highway tunnel or within 50 feet of railroad tracks. You need to be at least 15 feet away from a fire hydrant as well, so the fire engines have plenty of room to access it if needed.
Nebraska drivers also need to keep away from public or private driveways. Parking in front of them is illegal, and it also happens to be an inconvenience to anyone who needs to use the driveway.
Always pay attention to the official signs that are in the area as well. They will often let you know whether parking is allowed or not as well as rules, such as the time period of allowed parking.
Parking in an emergency
If you have an emergency, you may not always be able to make it to a mechanic or get home. You need to signal and move as far away from traffic as you can by going onto the shoulder of the road. You want to be as far off the road as possible. The vehicle should be no more than 12 inches from the curb or the far edge of the road. Unless it is a one-way street, you should make sure you are parked on the right side of the road. Also, make sure the vehicle cannot move. Put on your flashers, turn off the engine, and remove the keys.
If you do not follow the parking rules in Nebraska, you can expect to receive tickets and fines. Simply follow the rules and use common sense when parking, and you should not have any trouble.
