Understanding Texas Motorcycle Laws and Regulations
Motorcycle laws in Texas are very different from the laws that govern automobiles. Understanding them is crucial to motorcycle riders because if they violate any of these laws, they can be ticketed or even arrested. They can also suffer serious injuries when involved in an accident with another vehicle. With proper precaution and abiding by the rules and regulations, riders can avoid head-on collisions with other motor vehicles.
The Motorcycle Helmet Law in Texas is very important to follow when operating a motorcycle in the State of Texas. Motorcycle riders who get into accidents should seek immediate medical care, regardless of what they believe their injuries are.
Texas Motorcycle laws are similar to other motor vehicle laws. The speed limit is the same as for cars, and motorcycles have to stop at stop signs and red lights. One notable difference between Texas motorcycle laws and other motor vehicle laws is helmets–although every rider is encouraged to wear one at all times, state law does not require them unless the motorcycle operator or passenger is younger than 21 years.
A San Antonio Motorcycle Accident Lawyer will provide you with the legal help necessary to recover damages for injuries, pain, and suffering. A lawyer may be able to help you receive compensation for medical expenses, lost income, motorcycle repair or replacement, and other related costs.
How to Get A Motorcycle License in Texas
Texas Motorcycle Licensing is a process similar to traditional driver’s licenses. When you apply for your license, you will select how you would like to identify yourself on your license. This will be your personal information that will appear on all copies of your motorcycle registration and other records maintained by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). Once you have completed a motorcycle safety course, you take the Texas written test. You will need to pass this test to get your motorcycle license in Texas.
Texas requires all motorcycles to display a legible, unexpired license plate that corresponds with the rider’s current motorbike registration certificate. All licenses expire on the owner’s birthday in the year noted on the plate. Motorcycle registrations are valid throughout each year and must be kept current to ride legally during this time.
In Texas, there is no separate endorsement or license required for a motorized bicycle or “moped.” A moped is defined as a two-wheeled vehicle with an automatic transmission that cannot exceed 30 miles per hour when ridden; engines smaller than 50cc qualify as mopeds. Riders do not need a driver’s license, registration, or insurance to operate a moped. However, operators under 21 years old may not drive after 11 pm and are subject to all state helmet laws.
Riding Requirements for Motorcycles
Almost all states require motorcycle riders to wear helmets. The requirements for helmets vary by state. Often, the helmet must be purchased or rented from a local dealer or purchased online. The minimum requirements are usually the same whether riding on the street or on private property, although there are exceptions. It is best to check with each state about their specific requirements for motorcycle helmets.
There are also requirements that must be met when operating a motorcycle on public roads in Texas. The laws that govern Motorcycle Riding in Texas are complex. It is important to know the rules so you can ride safely.
Safety gear includes
- Proper eye protection (glasses, goggles, or a face shield);
- Approved helmet, if under the age of 21;
- Full-fingered gloves;
- Long-sleeved shirt or jacket;
- Long pants made from heavy material; and
- durable over-the-ankle footwear.
How Does Texas Motorcycle Insurance Work?
Motorcycle insurance in Texas can be a little bit complicated. Motorcycle insurance is similar to auto insurance in that you need to have it if you want to ride a motorcycle. In Texas, the registration of a motorcycle expires after one year and must be renewed annually.
Motorcycle insurance is a complicated topic. There are many factors that can affect your premium, such as age, gender, number of accidents in the past six years, and whether or not you own an additional vehicle. In this article, we will take a closer look at how motorcycle insurance in Texas works and what you should consider when shopping for an auto policy.
Types of Coverage
The most common types of coverage offered by motorcycle insurance providers are liability, theft, and collision. Texas motorcycle insurance has a variety of plans that work best for different needs. Texas motorcycle insurance offers different coverages to suit different needs. Here are the most common types of coverage:
There are 4 main types of coverage:
- Comprehensive,
- Medical Payments,
- Uninsured Motorist and
- Property Damage Liability
Other Coverage Considerations
Riders in Texas might be interested in other coverage options that are available to them, such as insuring stored bikes or car insurance. Motorcycles in the state must be physically parked at home when not in use, and they often require additional security for safety reasons.
Motorcycle insurance policies provide varying levels of coverage for riders. Some policies offer protection up to a set amount, such as $100,000 in liability and bodily injury coverage. Other policies provide rider-specific coverage such as restricted or full endorsement coverage, endorsements on rental bike coverage, and more.
What to do when faced with a motorcycle accident?
If you find yourself in a motorcycle accident, there are a few things that you can do:
- Call for help and get to the hospital
- Assess the situation and assess your injuries
- Prevent your injuries from getting worse by taking simple yet effective measures such as moving away from oncoming traffic.
Motorcycle accidents are not only dangerous, but expensive. If you are hit by a motorcycle, you have to get your injuries taken care of. If it is an accident involving other cars or trucks, they need to be insured.
The other thing you should do when faced with a motorcycle accident is call the police to make sure everything gets recorded appropriately. Insurance companies look to see what the police report says about what happened. If they determine it was a cut-and-dry incident, you will deal with your insurance company for your injuries.