Texas Motorcycle Laws Every Rider Should Know

As summer approaches and the weather heats up, you’ll see a lot more motorcycle riders out on the roads. It’s really important to have rules for vehicles on public streets to keep everything safe and organized. Motorcyclists have to follow the same traffic laws as everyone else, but Texas also has its own specific laws for riding motorcycles. If you’re not aware of these laws, you could end up facing legal issues. Below are some key motorcycle laws in Texas that every rider should know.

When do I need a motorcycle license?

In Texas, if you want to ride a motorcycle on public roads, you need a special license called the ‘Class M License.’ To get this license, you first have to meet all the requirements for a regular driver’s license and then complete a safety course that is approved by the Texas Department of Public Safety. Once you finish the course, you need to show proof that you completed it to get your Class M License. However, if you already have a valid motorcycle license from another state, you might not need to take the safety course.

What type of insurance do I need?

Motorcyclists are required to have liability insurance that covers at least $30,000 for each person hurt in an accident and $60,000 for several people injured in the same event. Additionally, this insurance must include property damage coverage of at least $25,000.

Do I have to wear a helmet?

In Texas, the law states that all motorcyclists who are under 21 must wear a helmet while riding. If you’re 21 or older, you don’t have to wear one unless you meet certain conditions. These conditions include having completed a state-approved motorcycle safety course or having an insurance plan that covers medical expenses from motorcycle accidents. It’s important to understand that Texas law also prevents police officers from stopping motorcyclists just to check if they meet these exceptions. This means that as long as you’re following the rules, you shouldn’t be pulled over just for not wearing a helmet if you’re over 21 and qualify for an exemption.

Even though there are some exemptions for wearing helmets, it’s still a smart idea for all riders to wear them. Studies show that helmets can reduce the risk of death in motorcycle accidents by about 37% and can lower the chances of serious brain injuries by around 67%. So, wearing a helmet is not just a legal requirement; it’s a crucial safety measure.

Is there an age limit on motorcycle passengers?

Letting friends and family ride on your motorcycle with you might seem like fun; however, it’s important to know that it might also get you in trouble with the law. In Texas, there are specific rules about who can ride as a passenger on a motorcycle. For instance, kids who are under five years old are not allowed to ride on the bike itself, which is something every rider should keep in mind to avoid any legal issues.

What about riding between vehicles, or “lane splitting”?

One of the primary appeals of motorcycles is their compact size and agile handling capabilities. Many riders exploit these qualities, engaging in a practice called “lane splitting” to navigate faster through heavy traffic. Lane splitting, however, is illegal in Texas.

If you are lane splitting and subsequently cause an accident, it is highly unlikely that you will receive compensation for any damages or injuries incurred. Furthermore, you may face steep fines and accrue points on your license because of this unlawful activity. To avoid potential injury and further legal complications, we highly recommend adhering to Texas law and avoiding lane splitting.

Other things your should know.

Most importantly, always wear proper safety equipment and know your limits. The kind of motorcycle that fits you really depends on how skilled and experienced you are. For example, if you’re new to riding, a big, powerful bike might be too much to handle safely, while someone with more experience might feel that a beginner bike is too basic for them. It’s also important to think about where you’ll be riding; some bikes are made for smooth, paved roads and aren’t meant for rough dirt or gravel. Plus, always remember to drive defensively because there are drivers out there who might not be paying attention or shouldn’t even be on the road.

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