Motorcycle riding in Texas offers freedom and excitement, but it also comes with strict legal requirements. From helmet rules to insurance coverage and lane usage, every rider should understand the laws that govern motorcycle operation in the state. Knowing your rights and responsibilities not only helps you stay safe but also protects your ability to recover compensation if you’re injured in a motorcycle accident. Contact our motorcycle accident attorney in El Paso for assistance.
Below is a breakdown of the most important motorcycle laws in Texas and how they can impact your safety and legal rights.
Motorcycle Licensing and Registration
To operate a motorcycle legally in Texas, riders must hold a Class M license issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). To obtain this license, you must:
- Complete a Motorcycle Safety Course approved by the DPS
- Meet REAL ID Requirements
Additional requirements may apply for minors as well as those who are out of state. Further, all motorcycles must also be properly registered and carry valid license plates and inspection stickers. Failure to meet these requirements can result in fines or limitations on your right to file certain insurance claims after an accident.
Texas Helmet Laws
Texas has a partial helmet law, meaning not all riders are required to wear helmets. Under Texas Transportation Code § 661.003, helmets are mandatory for:
- Riders under 21 years old
- Riders over 21 who do not have proof of completing a motorcycle safety course or medical insurance coverage of at least $10,000
That said, wearing a helmet significantly reduces the risk of serious injury or death and is always a good idea. Helmets can also influence legal outcomes in that insurance companies and juries may consider helmet use when determining fault and damages after a crash.
Motorcycle Equipment Requirements
Every motorcycle on Texas roads must meet specific safety standards. According to the Texas Transportation Code, motorcycles are required to have:
- Functioning brakes on both wheels
- At least one rearview mirror
- A headlight, taillight, and brake light
- A working horn
- Properly inflated tires in good condition
- Footrests and passenger handholds if carrying a passenger
These requirements help ensure that motorcycles remain visible and stable in traffic. A mechanical failure caused by a lack of maintenance could also expose the rider to liability in a personal injury claim.
Lane Splitting and Lane Sharing
Unlike in some states, lane splitting is illegal in Texas. Lane splitting refers to riding between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic. Texas law requires motorcyclists to remain in a single lane and prohibits passing vehicles within the same lane.
However, two motorcycles may ride side by side in a single lane if both riders agree to it. While this practice is permitted, it’s best used only in safe conditions, as it reduces maneuvering space and increases the risk of collision.
Motorcycle Insurance Requirements
Texas follows a fault-based insurance system, meaning the at-fault driver is responsible for paying for damages after an accident. All motorcycle owners must carry liability insurance with at least:
$30,000 in bodily injury coverage per person
$60,000 in bodily injury coverage per accident
$25,000 in property damage coverage
Riders may also purchase optional coverages such as:
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage to protect against drivers with no or insufficient insurance
- Medical Payments (MedPay) or Personal Injury Protection (PIP) for immediate medical expenses
- Comprehensive and collision coverage for damage to your motorcycle
Having adequate coverage can make a major difference in recovering from an accident, especially when medical bills and repair costs quickly add up.
Texas Motorcycle Passenger Laws
Motorcyclists can carry passengers if their bikes are equipped with footrests and a passenger seat or sidecar. Texas law prohibits carrying passengers under five years old, as young children are at higher risk of injury.
Riders should always ensure passengers wear helmets (when required) and protective gear. The operator is responsible for ensuring their passenger follows all safety rules.
What To Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Texas
After a crash, protecting your health and legal rights is essential. The steps you take can significantly affect your claim:
- Call 911 to report the accident and get medical help immediately
- Exchange information with all involved parties, including insurance and driver’s license details
- Document the scene with photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and injuries
- Seek medical treatment even if you feel fine, as some injuries can take hours or days to appear
- Avoid admitting fault or speculating about the cause of the accident
- Contact a motorcycle accident lawyer before speaking with insurers or signing documents
Texas uses a modified comparative negligence statute, so your compensation can be reduced if you’re found partially at fault. If you’re 51% or more responsible for the crash, you lose your right to recover damages. An experienced El Paso personal injury attorney can help protect you from unfair blame and ensure the correct fault allocation.
What Are Some Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Texas?
Motorcycle accidents often happen because other drivers fail to notice motorcyclists. Common causes include:
- Distracted driving
- Unsafe lane changes
- Left-turn collisions
- Tailgating
- Drunk driving
- Poor road conditions
- Vehicle defects
Motorcyclists are especially vulnerable to suffering severe injuries in the event of an accident. That’s one reason why understanding your rights under Texas law is so important if you’re injured in a crash.
What Damages Are Available After a Texas Motorcycle Accident?
If another party’s negligence caused your motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for both economic and non-economic damages, including:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages/loss of future earning ability
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish and emotional distress
- Property damage
- Loss of enjoyment of life
In rare cases, punitive damages may be awarded if the at-fault driver acted egregiously, such as driving under the influence or engaging in road rage.
Do I Need a Lawyer After a Motorcycle Accident?
While it’s possible to file an insurance claim on your own, insurance companies often work to minimize payouts. A motorcycle accident lawyer with Cal Mundell Law Firm, PLLC can level the playing field by:
- Investigating the cause of the crash
- Gathering the necessary evidence
- Working with experts as needed
- Negotiating with insurers for a fair settlement
- Protecting you from allegations of shared fault
- Representing you in court if necessary
Our personal injury law firm in Texas handles motorcycle accident cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay attorney’s fees unless we win compensation for your case.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Cal Mundell Law Firm, PLLC After a Motorcycle Accident
Texas motorcycle laws exist to balance freedom with responsibility. Understanding these laws and how they apply can help you avoid costly mistakes and protect your rights if an accident occurs.
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle crash, schedule a free consultation with Cal Mundell Law Firm, PLLC for trusted legal help. You can get in touch by giving us a call at (915) 250-0700 or by reaching out online.