As a motorcycle rider in Texas, it’s crucial to understand and comply with the state’s motorcycle laws to ensure your safety and avoid legal trouble. In this blog post, we’ll explore the key Texas motorcycle laws every rider should know, including licensing requirements, helmet regulations, and other essential rules of the road.
Motorcycle Licensing Requirements
First, let’s address a common question: Can I buy a motorcycle without a license in Texas? While you can buy a motorcycle if you don’t have a license, you can only legally ride it on public roads with proper licensing. Texas law requires all motorcycle operators to have a valid Class M license or a motorcycle endorsement on their regular driver’s license.
To obtain a Class M license, you must be at least 16 years old, complete a motorcycle safety course that was approved by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), and pass a written and practical exam.
Texas Motorcycle Helmet Law
One of the most important rules for bikers in the Lone Star State is the Texas motorcycle helmet law. Texas has a partial helmet law, meaning that riders who are 21 years or older can ride without a helmet if they have passed a safety course and have medical insurance.
However, even if you meet these requirements, it’s strongly recommended that you always wear a DOT-compliant helmet to protect yourself in the event of an accident. Riders under 21 must always wear a helmet, regardless of their experience or insurance coverage.
Lane Splitting and Filtering
Lane splitting, which involves riding between slow-moving or stopped traffic lanes, is illegal in Texas. Riders must stay within a single lane and cannot pass other vehicles by riding between them. However, Texas allows lane filtering in certain situations, such as when motorcyclists pass stationary vehicles at a stoplight or stop sign.
No Chase Law for Motorcycles
You might have heard rumors about certain police engagement rules and wondered, “Does Texas have a no chase law for motorcycles?” Texas has no specific law prohibiting law enforcement from pursuing motorcyclists who flee. However, police officers will typically follow their department’s pursuit policies, which generally prioritize public safety and may discourage high-speed chases in certain situations.
Other Important Texas Motorcycle Laws
Here are some other important rules to know before you hit the road on your bike:
- Motorcyclists must always use their headlights, even during daylight hours.
- Riders must signal their intention to turn or change lanes at least 100 feet before doing so.
- Motorcycles must have at least one mirror, a horn, and proper mufflers that prevent excessive noise.
- Any passenger must have their own seat and footrests.
Get the Compensation you Deserve
By understanding these Texas motorcycle laws and prioritizing safety, you can enjoy the open road while minimizing your risks. The Law Tigers local motorcycle accident lawyers fight on behalf of injured riders to get the compensation they deserve. For more than 20 years riders have trusted the Law Tigers to help with their case. Visit lawtigers.com or call 1-888-863-7216, 24/7 for a free case evaluation.
