College Station Motorcycle Traffic Laws
Motorcycles give riders a feeling of freedom and exhilaration and are the preferred method of transportation for many College Station residents. However, riders are also more likely to suffer severe injuries in crashes than other passenger car drivers. While riders enjoy the same rights and responsibilities to the roadways, many sustain severe injuries because of careless motorists.
One effective way for motorcycle operators to keep themselves safe is to know the safety rules and regulations and follow them when they travel on roads and highways. Meet with a skilled attorney experienced with College Station motorcycle traffic laws to learn more.
Motorcycle Equipment Requirements
All registered motorcycles must pass a yearly inspection, and traffic safety laws require specific equipment to pass and operate them lawfully. Motorcycle equipment requirements include the following:
- Exhaust system, steering, breaks, and wheel assembly with tires
- Passenger’s footrests and handrails for bikes carrying an additional person
- Horn, mirror, and reflectors
- Working head, tail, and stop lamps
Motorcycle traffic laws in College Station could affect the way a biker equips their motorcycle.
Motorcycle Helmet Laws
Many motorcycle crash injuries are preventable, and the best way for riders to avoid life-threatening head injuries and protect themselves is by wearing a helmet and other safety gear. All operators under 21 and passengers must wear helmets while traveling on a motorcycle. Under Texas Transportation Code ยง 661.002, the helmets must meet the minimum Federal Motor Vehicle headgear safety standard requirements.
Approved helmets have stickers showing they passed the safety inspection. The law does not require riders over 21 to wear helmets if they carry the minimum amount of medical insurance the statute requires. It is unlawful for any passenger to ride on a bike with an operator not wearing protective headgear.
Operation and Licensing Regulations
Motorcyclists must have a regular driver’s license to apply for their Class M motorcycle endorsement. They must also pass a state-approved motorcycle safety course and provide the certificate of completion to apply for the Class M endorsement. Individuals 15 and up can apply for a motorcycle learner’s permit.
However, there are additional requirements for minors. Motorcycle riders aged 15-17 must obtain a provisional license, complete 32 hours of classroom safety training, and produce the certificate of completion upon applying for a permit. All applicants must pass a vision, knowledge, and driving exam.
The Lane Splitting Law
Lane splitting involves the motorcycle operator riding between two vehicles in adjoining lanes to pass them. Traffic laws in Texas prohibit riders from lane splitting, including riding between two or more stopped or slower-moving cars. Motorcycles may switch lanes, but the regulations prohibit them from riding between vehicles when roads have two or more marked lanes dividing them.
Sharing the traffic lane with a much larger car is among the most significant causes of severe accidents leading to riders sustaining fatal injuries. A College Station attorney who is knowledgeable about motorcycle traffic laws and regulations could answer questions about potential hazards and how to avoid them.
Call a College Station Attorney to Discuss Motorcycle Traffic Laws
While crashes involving reckless motorists are out of the motorcycle operator’s hands, adhering to traffic safety rules and regulations is the best way to keep themselves safe on the roadways. Further, while helmets are not required for riders over 21, wearing the equipment is the best way to protect yourself from severe head and brain damage.
For lawful travel on state roads and highways, riders must comply with laws regarding motorcycle equipment, safety equipment, licensing and registration requirements, and lane-splitting rules. Call Chad Jones Law to discuss College Station motorcycle traffic laws or for help with a case after a crash.
