As a motorcyclist in the Lone Star State, understanding the laws that govern your ride is key to staying safe and avoiding legal trouble. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or new to the open road, this guide will enable you to grasp the important motorcycle laws in Texas.
If you’ve suffered an injury in a motorcycle crash, don’t hesitate to reach out to a Texas motorcycle accident lawyer who can protect your rights and pursue fair compensation for you.
What Are the Licensing Requirements for Motorcyclists in Texas?
To legally ride a motorcycle in Texas, you need the right license. The state requires all motorcycle operators to have a Class M license. Getting this license involves passing both a written test and an on-cycle skills exam. Alternatively, you can complete an approved motorcycle safety course, which many riders find helpful for building their skills and knowledge.
For younger riders, there are some age-related rules to keep in mind. Texans as young as 15 can get a restricted Class M license, but there are power limitations on what they can ride. Once you turn 16, you’re eligible for a regular Class M license without those restrictions.
If you’re under 18, there are extra steps involved in getting your motorcycle license. You’ll need to take a motorcycle safety course, and your license may have certain restrictions until you meet additional requirements. These rules aim to ensure young riders have the skills and maturity to handle a motorcycle safely.
Key Takeaways
What Are Texas’s Helmet Laws for Motorcyclists?
Helmet laws in Texas vary depending on your age. The law is clear if you’re under 21: you must wear a motorcycle helmet. There are no exceptions.
For riders 21 and older, the rules are a bit different. You’re not required to wear a helmet if you meet certain conditions. You must have completed a state-approved motorcycle safety course or an insurance plan covering healthcare costs if you’re in an accident. While the law allows this choice, many experienced riders wear helmets for added safety.
Can Motorcyclists Lane Split or Filter in Texas?
Lane splitting, where a motorcycle rides between lanes of traffic moving in the same direction, is not allowed in Texas. While sometimes tempting in heavy traffic, this practice is against the law and can result in fines if caught.
However, Texas does allow lane filtering in certain situations. This means you can pass between stationary vehicles, like at a red light or stop sign. Understanding the differences between these two practices is important to avoid breaking the law.
What Insurance Do Motorcyclists Need in Texas?
Just like car drivers, motorcyclists in Texas must have liability insurance. The minimum coverage required by law is:
- $30,000 for injuries to one person
- $60,000 for injuries to multiple people
- $25,000 for property damage
This insurance covers costs if you cause an accident. However, many riders choose to get additional coverage for their protection. A Texas motorcycle accident attorney can advise you on insurance matters if you’ve been in a crash.
What Other Motorcycle Laws Should Texas Riders Know?
Texas has several other laws that motorcyclists should be aware of.
Handlebar height is regulated. Your handlebars can’t be more than 15 inches above the seat. This rule helps ensure you maintain proper control of your bike.
There are rules about passengers, too. Anyone riding your motorcycle must be at least five years old unless in a sidecar. Sidecar passengers are not age-restricted.
Your motorcycle’s equipment matters as well. Unless your bike was made before 1975, you must have at least one rear-view mirror and keep your headlight on during the day. You’re also required to wear eye protection if you’re riding off-road.
How Do Registration and Inspection Work for Motorcycles in Texas?
Like cars, motorcycles in Texas need to be registered and inspected regularly. You must display a valid registration sticker and license plate on your bike. These requirements help ensure all vehicles on Texas roads meet basic safety and emissions standards.
What Should You Do If You’re in a Motorcycle Accident?
After the accident’s immediate aftermath, seek medical attention even if paramedics don’t take you to the hospital from the scene. Some injuries, particularly head, internal, or soft tissue damage, may not be immediately apparent. A medical check-up can detect these hidden injuries and create a medical record linking them to the accident.
Once you’ve received medical care, it’s time to think about protecting your legal rights. This is where a Texas motorcycle accident lawyer comes in. Many people make the mistake of talking to insurance companies before consulting with a lawyer. Remember, insurance adjusters actively work to minimize the company’s payout. They may use tactics to get you to say things that can hurt your case or pressure you into accepting a low settlement.
A Texas motorcycle accident attorney can be a buffer between you and the insurance companies. They’ll handle all communications, ensuring you don’t accidentally say something others can use against you. They’ll also ensure that any settlement offers are fair and cover all expenses and losses.
Your lawyer will start by thoroughly investigating your accident. They may return to the scene to gather additional evidence, interview witnesses, and possibly consult with accident reconstructionists. This thorough approach can reveal details you might have missed and strengthen your case.
Dealing with medical bills is often a significant concern for accident victims. Your Texas motorcycle accident lawyer can clarify your options for covering these costs. They can negotiate with healthcare providers to reduce your bills or postpone payment until your case settles. They will also work to ensure that any settlement or court award considers not just your current medical expenses but any future medical needs related to your injuries.
Your lawyer will factor lost income into your claim if you cannot work due to your injuries. This includes the work you’ve already missed, as well as any future earnings you may lose if your injuries lead to long-term or permanent disability. By assessing current and potential financial impacts, your lawyer ensures you seek comprehensive compensation for your situation.
In some cases, your lawyer might advise filing a personal injury lawsuit. While many motorcycle accident cases settle out of court, sometimes litigation is necessary to secure fair compensation. If your case goes to court, your Texas motorcycle accident lawyer will prepare all necessary legal documents, represent you in all proceedings, and fight for your rights before a judge and jury.
Throughout this process, your lawyer will keep you informed about the progress of your case and advise you on important decisions. They’ll explain legal concepts in terms you can understand, helping you make informed choices about your case.
Dealing with the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be stressful and time-consuming. By hiring a Texas motorcycle accident attorney, you can focus on your recovery while they handle the legal side of your case. They’ll work tirelessly to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries, property damage, lost income, and pain and suffering.
How Can a Texas Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Help After a Crash?
A Texas motorcycle accident lawyer can be your most valuable ally if you’ve suffered an injury in a motorcycle accident. Texas motorcycle accident attorneys understand motorcyclists’ unique challenges on the road and in the courtroom. They’re prepared to manage the various aspects of your case, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies.
One of the first ways a Texas motorcycle accident lawyer can help is by thoroughly investigating your accident. They’ll work to gather all available evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and any available video footage. This evidence can be key in proving who was at fault for the accident. Your lawyer may also bring in accident reconstructionists to help build a strong case on your behalf.
Dealing with insurance adjusters can easily be one of the most challenging parts of your claim. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts and may try to take advantage of your lack of legal knowledge.
A Texas motorcycle accident lawyer knows these companies’ tactics and can protect you from unfair treatment. They’ll handle all communications with the insurance company, ensuring your rights are protected and you don’t accidentally say something that can harm your case.
Medical bills often pile up quickly after a motorcycle accident. Your Texas motorcycle accident lawyer can explain your options for covering these costs. They can negotiate with healthcare providers to reduce your bills or postpone payment until your case settles. Additionally, they’ll work to ensure that all of your current and any settlement or court award includes future medical needs related to the accident.
Having a Texas motorcycle accident lawyer by your side is extremely beneficial if your case goes to court. They’ll prepare all necessary legal documents, file them correctly and on time, and represent you in all court proceedings. Their experience in the courtroom can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Many motorcycle accident victims worry about lost earnings if they cannot work due to their injuries. A skilled Texas motorcycle accident lawyer will factor this into your claim, seeking compensation not just for your current lost income but also for any future earnings you may lose due to long-term or permanent injuries.
It’s important to note that Texas has a statute of limitations for filing personal injury lawsuits. A Texas motorcycle accident lawyer will know these deadlines and ensure you take all necessary actions within the required timeframe. Missing these deadlines can result in losing your right to seek compensation altogether.
Another way a Texas motorcycle accident lawyer can help is by accurately valuing your claim. It can be difficult for an individual to know how much their case is truly worth. An experienced lawyer will consider all aspects of your situation – your injuries, property damage, lost income, pain and suffering, and potential long-term effects – to determine a fair amount of compensation to seek.
If the other party involved in your accident was uninsured or underinsured, a Texas motorcycle accident lawyer can guide you in exploring other avenues for compensation. This might include looking into your insurance policy for uninsured motorist coverage or identifying other potentially liable parties.
Many motorcycle accidents result in serious injuries that can have long-lasting effects. A Texas motorcycle accident lawyer will work with medical professionals to fully understand the extent of your injuries and their potential long-term impact. This information is important to ensure that any settlement or court award adequately covers your future medical needs and lifestyle adjustments.
It’s worth noting that many Texas motorcycle accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. You don’t pay any money upfront. Your lawyer only gets paid if they win your case. This arrangement allows you to get high-quality legal representation without stressing about how to afford it when you may already be facing financial stress due to medical bills and lost income.
A Texas motorcycle accident lawyer can also help if you face bias against motorcyclists. Unfortunately, there’s often a stigma associated with motorcycle riders, and this can sometimes affect how insurance companies or juries view your case. An experienced lawyer will actively combat these biases and ensure you receive fair treatment.
A Texas Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help You Get the Compensation You Deserve
If you’ve suffered an injury in a motorcycle accident, don’t hesitate to seek help. A Texas personal injury attorney can be your strongest ally in getting the compensation you deserve. They can clarify your rights, deal with insurance companies, and, if necessary, take your case to court.
Remember, the road can be unpredictable, but you don’t have to face its challenges alone. Stay informed and safe; if trouble strikes, don’t hesitate to contact a Texas motorcycle accident lawyer for help. They can provide professional guidance and support, ensuring you understand your rights and options. Their experience allows you to navigate your situation confidently and pursue the compensation you deserve. Always prioritize your safety and well-being, knowing that dedicated professionals are ready to advocate for you when you need it most.
