Starting September 3, a new “five-mile” law will start this week in Nebraska. As a result, drivers will now be subject to some of the harshest speeding fines the state has seen in decades. Any driver found to be exceeding the posted speed limit by at least five miles per hour after the law goes into effect faces a minimum $50 fine. This penalty is five times the previous one.
The penalties will rise in tandem with speed, with the worst offenders facing fines of up to $400. This law comes after drivers were found to be exceeding 90 mph in recent years. These new laws are expected to reduce reckless driving.
The New “Five-Mile” Law Penalty Breakdown
Here are the penalties based on how much you exceed the speed limit:
- 1–5 mph over: $50 (previously $10)
- 6–9 mph over: $75 (previously $25)
- 10–14 mph over: $125 (previously $75)
- 15–19 mph over: $200 (previously $125)
- 20–34 mph over: $300 (previously $200)
- 35+ mph over: $400 (previously $300)
Fines will double for those found speeding in school zones and construction areas. These adjustments will ensure that drivers drive more cautiously to avoid injuring workers and children.
Additionally, driving double the posted limit will now be considered reckless driving, which is a serious offense that is punishable by severe legal consequences.
Why Nebraska Toughened the Rules
State Senator Kathleen Kauth explained the reason behind the new, increased fines:
“We kind of looked at all the increases and said we’re just going to boost everything up by double to triple,” Kauth told local reporters. “Again, to try to make sure that if you’re making the choice to speed and if you get caught, it’s going to be a pinch.”
Authorities say that the new “five-mile” laws are necessary and are intended to slow drivers down. For several months, the Nebraska State Patrol has complained about extreme speeding on Nebraska roads. Between 2021 and April 2025, citations for drivers driving above 90 mph have risen by $500.
What Nebraska Drivers Think of the New “Five-Mile” Law Fines
Many commuters in Nebraska have said that the higher fines are long overdue. They are certain that the new fines will make the roads safer, especially in the urban areas where there is heavy traffic.
Others admitted that the new “five-mile” law fines are too high but agreed that safety is a priority. Others pointed out dangerous car racing on urban roads and in the streets and said that the tougher fines could help curb reckless driving.
A Broader Crackdown on Unsafe Driving in Other States
Besides Nebraska, other states have also enacted road safety measures that will also take effect in September.
- In Florida, authorities will activate new school-zone speed cameras starting September 14. Those caught driving 10 mph or more above the limit will be issued $100 tickets.
- In South Carolina, a new hands-free law was introduced on September 1, banning drivers from using phones in their hands or laps while driving. First offenders will pay $100 fine, while second offenders will pay $200 fine.
- Texas also requires companies operating autonomous vehicles without human control to acquire new permits. These permits will be issued after the vehicles have gone through rigorous inspection.
In addition to increased penalties, Nebraska has also tightened Driving Under the Influence (DUI) laws. First offenders will pay $500 fine while repeat offenders will past with $10,000.
Many states are cracking down on speeding, distracted driving, and impaired driving. These habits are the main causes of accidents in the U.S., and thus, a need for stricter rules and harsher punishments.
Conclusion
Nebraska’s new five-mile law, which takes effect September 3, 2025, is a big blow for drivers. It will now cost $50 for driving just 5 mph over the posted limit, which is five times more than the previous fine. Repeat offenders will also face higher penalties, while reckless drivers will be subject to more severe criminal charges.
Authorities and police say that the stricter penalties are aimed at curbing deadly speed, especially in high-risk zones such as near schools and construction zones. The era of “just a warning” for minor speeding is now over. From now on, it’s either slow down or pay the price.