Nebraska Pedestrian Deaths Could Surpass Five-Year Record As Lincoln Police Crack Down
LINCOLN, NE — Nebraska is on pace to surpass its five-year record for pedestrian crash fatalities, with 17 deaths already reported statewide in 2025. Nearly a quarter of those fatal accidents occurred in Lincoln, prompting police to step up enforcement efforts aimed at preventing more tragedies.
Pedestrian Fatalities On The Rise
Of the 17 pedestrian deaths this year, four took place in Lincoln, representing about 24 percent of the state’s total. Lincoln Police Department (LPD) officials said three of those deadly crashes showed the drivers were not at fault. In those cases, conditions made it nearly impossible for motorists to react in time.
“There is no time to react or the visibility as such that they would not have been illuminated by headlights in time,” said Sgt. Sara Genoways, Traffic Unit Supervisor for LPD. “It would not be reasonable to say that they could have seen and done something about it.”
Causes And Contributing Factors
LPD noted that some cases involve pedestrians misjudging the position of vehicles or being under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Despite Lincoln’s smaller size compared to Omaha, the city has already seen 92 pedestrian-related incidents through the end of September. That number puts Lincoln on track to match or exceed last year’s total of 115.
Pedestrian injuries in these crashes range from minor bruises to broken bones, head trauma, or death.
Police Response And Prevention Measures
To address the issue, Lincoln Police have increased patrols downtown, where many incidents occur. Nightshift bike officers have been especially active in stopping unsafe pedestrian behaviors, such as crossing outside designated areas.
“If they are not causing crashes, they are nearly causing crashes,” Sgt. Genoways said.
Police urge pedestrians to use crosswalks, avoid distractions, and wear bright clothing to improve visibility. At the same time, drivers are reminded that even if a pedestrian is jaywalking, they can still face charges if they fail to act when given enough time to avoid a collision.
“We could still file motor vehicle homicide charges if we found that the driver did have enough time to perceive and take evasive action,” Genoways explained. “Just because somebody is committing a small crime like jaywalking does not give a motorist a right to strike them.”
Balancing Responsibility Between Drivers And Pedestrians
While some pedestrian deaths in Lincoln this year have been linked to pedestrian error, police stressed that driver distraction and inattention remain significant factors in crashes where motorists are found at fault. Officials say reducing the trend will require both pedestrians and drivers to make safer choices on the road.
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