When it comes to riding a motorcycle in Texas, it is crucial to understand state laws on motorcycle accidents.
Table of Contents
License
Riders must have a Class M license before operating a motorcycle on public roads in Texas. Part of obtaining this license is taking a safety course approved by the Texas Department of Public Safety, followed by passing a written and driving test.
Helmet Law
All motorcyclists under the age of 21 must wear a helmet while operating a motorcycle in Texas. Riders over the age of 21 are still required to wear a helmet unless they meet one of the following exceptions: 1) have completed a state-approved motorcycle safety course, or 2) can establish that they have at least $10,000 in medical insurance that would cover their healthcare costs if they are ever involved in an accident.
Lane Splitting in Texas
Lane splitting is the practice of driving in between lanes of traffic and is illegal in Texas. If a lane-splitting motorcycle accident occurs, it can be challenging for a motorcyclist to recover damages because they violated the law.
Passengers
Children under the age of five cannot be transported as passengers on a motorcycle. However, they are permitted to ride in a sidecar. Passengers older than five and under 21 years of age must wear a helmet, and the motorcycle must have a permanent passenger seat.
Insurance
Motorcyclists are required to carry proof of liability insurance that will pay for at least $30,000 per person injured in an accident and $60,000 for multiple people injured in an accident, along with $25,000 to cover property damage.
Inspection
Motorcycles operated in Texas must be inspected on an annual basis at an Official Motor Vehicle Inspection Station. If the bike passes inspection, the certificate of completion must be visible near the rear license plate.
Registration
All riders must register their motorcycles through their respective County Tax-Assessor Collector, just as they would a car. Once registration is complete, the registration sticker must be attached to the license plate.
Parking
Motorcyclists are responsible for parking their bikes in the same legal areas as passenger vehicles. Disabled parking spaces require a windshield placard or disabled license plate, and it is illegal to park in striped areas, near red curbs, or on sidewalks.
Required Equipment
Motorcycles must be equipped with the following to be legally operated In Texas:
Vehicle Identification Number
Headlamp
Tail lamp
Stop lamp
License plate lamp
An exhaust system
Horn
Mirror
Steering
Brakes
Tires
Rear red reflector
Wheel assembly
Protective Gear
Safety does not stop with a helmet. There is other protective gear that riders are highly suggested to take advantage of to protect them if an accident occurs. That can include:
Goggles or shatterproof eyewear
Face shields
Fully protective clothing, including a jacket, riding pants, or riding suits
Low-heeled footwear or riding boots
Elbow/shin/knee guards
Gloves
Bright-colored clothing
Rain suits when applicable
Earplugs
Contact Us If You Need Help
The knowledge of these laws can help you avoid an expensive traffic citation, as well as keep you safe. If you or someone you love has been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact Ramsey Law Group. Our Houston Motorcycle Accident Lawyer will review your case for free and help you pursue the compensation that you are entitled to.