While many people choose to use bikes to get around Houston, the city does not have a strong biking infrastructure. Unfortunately, cyclists must often share the road with large passenger and commercial vehicles, which increases the risk of injury substantially. Following traffic laws for bicyclists in Houston can help cyclists stay safer on the road and avoid accidents. If you do end up in a bike accident, call our attorneys for assistance.
Following Traffic Laws
Cyclists across Texas must follow the same regulations as the drivers of larger passenger vehicles. That includes:
- Stopping at stop signs and red lights
- Yielding to pedestrians in crosswalks
- Cycling with the flow of traffic
Traffic laws for bicyclists in Houston treat bicycles as vehicles, which means that if a law governs the way traffic flows on the streets, cyclists must follow those same laws.
Where to Operate Bicycles
Texas law requires individuals riding a bicycle to operate those vehicles only on roads and paths designed for them. If a road does not have proper biking infrastructure, including a safe speed limit for bicycle operation, cyclists should not take their vehicles on those roads or operate bicycles on toll roads or limited-access highways.
In addition, if cyclists are moving slower than the flow of traffic on the road, they should move over to the right side of the road. However, if the road is less than standard size and does not have a bicycle lane, which means a vehicle cannot safely pass a cyclist in the same lane, the cyclist does not have to keep to the right side of the road.
Safe Bicycle Operations
Traffic laws for bicyclists in Houston include several regulations regarding the safe operation of the bicycle.
- Bikes should be equipped with a brake that can make a safe stop on dry pavement
- Cyclists riding after dark should have adequate lighting solutions, including a headlamp and a red reflector or red lamp that can be seen from behind
- Cyclists cannot carry any object that prevents them from keeping at least one hand on the handlebars
- Cyclists must use hand signals to notify other drivers of their intent to turn or stop
- Each bicycle should carry only the number of passengers it is intended to carry—no riding on the handlebars or other “hacks” designed to add passengers
- Cyclists can never ride with more than two bicycles side by side unless they are in an area specifically designated for bicycles
- When travelling with two cycles next to one another, cyclists should not interfere with the normal flow of traffic
Following these regulations makes it easier for cyclists to avoid injury to themselves and others.
Helmet Regulations
While Texas does lay out several regulations for safe bicycle use, there are no regulations requiring the use of a bicycle helmet at any age. However, cyclists should carefully consider the importance of helmet use, including the reduction in head and neck injuries in the event of an accident. Helmet use is particularly important when cycling on or near major roads.
Discuss Traffic Laws for Bicyclists in Houston with an Attorney
Whether you have questions about traffic laws for bicyclists in Houston or you want to know how those laws impact you after an accident on your bike, a personal injury attorney can help answer your questions and make sure you understand your rights. Reach out to Schechter, Shaffer, & Harris, LLP today to learn more about bicycle traffic laws or to discuss your right to compensation.
