Motorcycling is a favorite pastime in Texas, but it is also a cause of thousands of deaths and injuries every year. The Texas Department of Transportation reports that nearly 600 motorcyclists were killed and more than 2,600 riders were injured on our roadways in 2023. Understanding laws that pertain to motorcyclists can help you avoid these accidents and know what to do when they occur.
Texas requires all motorcyclist operators to have a Class M license. To obtain this license, you must take a safety course approved by the Texas Department of Public Safety and pass a written and driving test. If you already have a regular driver’s license, you do not have to retake the written portion of the test.
Motorcyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as other drivers on the road. Other drivers must keep a lookout for them and yield the right-of-way when applicable.
Texas law requires all motorcyclists under the age of 21 to wear a helmet. Drivers over the age of 21 are also required to wear a helmet unless they meet one of the following exemptions:
Lane splitting is the process of moving between stopped or slowed traffic, but it is illegal in Texas. Violating this law can result in tickets, fines, points added to the rider’s license, and a reduced chance of being fairly compensated for injuries that occur during lane splitting actions.
Motorcyclists cannot carry passengers under the age of five unless they are positioned in a sidecar. To carry other passengers, you must have a permanent passenger seat. All passengers under 21 years old must wear a helmet.
Motorcycles that operate in Texas must include specified equipment, including the following:
Motorcycles must also have a vehicle identification number (VIN).
All motorcyclists and other motor vehicles must be inspected annually at an Official Motor Vehicle Inspection Station. The certificate of completion must be visible near the rear license plate. Motorcycles must be properly registered through their county tax-assessor collector. The motorcyclist must display a registration sticker.
Motorcyclists are required to have liability insurance of the following minimum amounts:
Despite following the rules of the road, motorcycle accidents occur every day because other motorists do not. If you or a loved one was injured in a motorcycle accident, The Aguirre Law Firm, PLLC can help. An experienced San Antonio motorcycle accident attorney with our firm can investigate the accident, gather evidence, and handle negotiations with the insurance company. We can review your case during a free consultation. Contact us today to get started.
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