Katy motorcycle traffic laws govern the steps that motorcycle riders must take in order to protect themselves and others who share the road with them. Not only that, it can help determine liability after a motorcycle accident, since a violation of those laws could change the balance of liability. Texas motorcycle riders follow the same laws as other drivers on the road, including adhering to speed limits and paying attention to traffic signals and right of way, and they may need to follow several laws written specifically for motorcycle riders.
Licensing
One of the most important motorcycle traffic laws for residents in Katy is licensing: motorcycle riders need to carry a separate endorsement on their license in order to legally operate a motorcycle on the streets of Texas. A motorcycle license shows that the rider has undergone needed training and knows how to operate the motorcycle safely.
Helmet Use
Texas law requires the use of a motorcycle helmet for all riders under the age of 21. Once riders turn 21, they still need to wear a helmet unless either they have completed a motorcycle safety course approved by the state, or they have an insurance plan that will cover the cost of needed health treatment after an accident without a helmet. The lack of helmet requirements does not mean that riders should not wear a helmet if they do not have to, as head protection can substantially reduce the risk of brain injury and death in a collision.
Lane Splitting
Lane splitting, or driving between two lanes of traffic, is prohibited in Texas. Motorcycle riders may sometimes use lane splitting to help them avoid traffic jams or slowdowns; however, this can pose significant danger to those riders, since other vehicles may not realize that the motorcycle rider has chosen that avenue. In addition, other drivers should not attempt to share a lane with a motorcycle or cross into the motorcycle’s lane. Like other drivers, motorcycle riders have the right to use a full lane of traffic.
Insurance
In order to ride a motorcycle in Katy, the laws state that you must carry liability insurance. Riders who do not carry that insurance can face significant fines and penalties, especially after an accident.
Appropriate Age for Passengers
Passengers on a motorcycle must be at least five years old. Transporting riders under five can result in substantial penalties.
Requirements for Motorcycles
In addition to meeting key safety requirements on the road, motorcycle riders must make sure that their motorcycles fit key safety standards, including:
- Handlebars no more than 15 inches above the seat
- Daytime headlights, unless the motorcycle was manufactured prior to 1975
- At least one rear-view mirror
Failure to meet these requirements may mean that the motorcycle cannot be legally driven on the road.
Discuss Katy Motorcycle Traffic Laws with a Lawyer in the Event of a Collision
If you have questions about Katy motorcycle traffic laws and how they can impact your claim, including whether failure to follow those laws and regulations can impact your right to compensation, a personal injury lawyer can help you learn more about your next steps and your right to compensation. Reach out to Schechter, Shaffer, & Harris, LLP, to learn more about motorcycle traffic laws and how they have the potential to impact your accident claim.
