Pleasant year-round weather provides motorcyclists with abundant, enjoyable riding opportunities. However, you and your passengers must adhere to state motorcycle traffic laws promoting safe riding.
Knowledge of these regulations is crucial to building a case if you are in an accident, which is where a motorcycle crash attorney could help. At Fleming Law Accident & Injury Attorneys, we are familiar with Houston motorcycle traffic laws and can offer you guidance and legal representation after a crash.
State mandates apply to motorcyclists and passengers in Houston. Before you can ride a motorcycle on state roads, you must acquire a Class M license. This requires you to complete a Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation-approved motorcycle operator safety course.
Mandatory equipment for motorcyclists includes the following:
In addition, motorcycles should undergo a mandatory annual inspection, preferably 90 days before your license renewal.
State motorcycle laws prohibit lane splitting (riding in between vehicles in moving traffic) and lane filtering (riding in between cars in slow or standing traffic). However, two motorcycles can ride abreast in one lane, and it is illegal for other road users to drive in a manner that prevents motorcyclists from using a lane.
Handlebars must not exceed 15 inches above the seat level. While you can carry passengers 5 years old and over, transporting young children in a sidecar rather than on your bike is advisable.
You are also expected to adhere to the state’s roadway rules at all times when operating your motorcycle in Houston. You must carry liability insurance coverage of at least $25,000 for property damage, $30,000 for bodily injury per person, and $60,000 for total bodily injury per accident.
In Houston, traffic regulations require motorcycle riders and passengers under 21 to wear a helmet with a Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards No. 218 certification label. Motorcyclists or passengers older than 21 can ride without a helmet, but to do so, you must carry proof of at least $10,000 in medical insurance coverage.
As a general rule, you and your passengers should wear helmets and other safety gear while riding. Eye protection is also mandatory if riding off-road. Wearing personal protective equipment can simplify insurance claims after an accident.
If you suffered injuries in a crash while riding, a knowledgeable attorney who understands Houston motorcycle traffic laws could assist in building a solid case. This is even more important if your accident involved a car driver.
Our team at Fleming Law Accident & Injury Attorneys provides competent legal representation for injured motorcyclists and passengers. We can help you seek compensation for your losses. Contact us today to discuss your case.
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