You should not leave a child unattended in a motor vehicle for any length of time. If children are trapped inside cars—especially in hot weather—they can suffer from heat exhaustion or heat stroke in a matter of minutes, leading to permanent disability or death. Heat stroke, also known as hyperthermia, can cause shock, seizures, irregular heartbeat, and heart attack, as well as brain, liver, and kidney damage. Leaving a child unattended in a car is also a form of neglectful supervision that is investigated by Child Protective Services.

In Nebraska, leaving a child unattended in a motor vehicle is considered a serious matter, especially under conditions that pose a risk to the child's health or safety, such as extreme temperatures. While Nebraska does not have a specific statute that makes it illegal to leave a child unattended in a vehicle, such actions can fall under child neglect laws. According to Nebraska Revised Statute 28-707, a person commits child abuse if they knowingly, intentionally, or negligently cause or permit a minor child to be placed in a situation that endangers his or her life or physical or mental health. This can include leaving a child in a car where they are at risk of heatstroke or other harm due to environmental conditions. Child Protective Services (CPS) in Nebraska may investigate instances where a child is left unattended in a vehicle, and depending on the circumstances, the responsible party may face criminal charges for child neglect or abuse.