Motorcycle riders enjoy beautiful views and a strong riding community. However, riding in the city comes with risks. Whether you are commuting downtown or heading toward the Gulf, following Houston motorcycle traffic laws is important for your safety. It can also help preserve your right to compensation if a crash occurs.
If you were involved in a collision, understanding your legal rights is the first step toward recovery. An experienced motorcycle wreck attorney could help you determine how the law applies to your case, gather evidence of negligence, and pursue damages. At KGS Law PLLC, we stand up for injured riders and their families.
Understanding Motorcycle Traffic Laws
Riders in this state must comply with specific regulations designed to reduce crash risks and protect all riders. These motorcycle traffic regulations include equipment requirements, lane usage, and helmet rules. For example, under Texas Transportation Code § 661.003, helmets are mandatory for most riders under the age of 21, while those over 21 may ride without one only if they complete a safety course or carry proper health insurance.
Lane use is another common issue for riders. Texas Transportation Code § 545.060 does not allow for lane splitting or riding between vehicles even in slow traffic. This is a crucial distinction from laws in other states where the practice is permitted. By staying informed about motorcycle traffic laws in Houston, you help ensure your own safety and make liability clearer if another driver’s negligence caused a crash.
Common Violations That Lead to Motorcycle Accidents
Many motorcycle accidents happen because of driver errors or reckless behaviors that violate motorcycle traffic laws in Houston. Common causes include:
- Changing lanes unsafely
- Distracted or impaired driving
- Failing to yield to motorcycles
- Speeding or aggressive driving
- Tailgating or following too closely
These behaviors are dangerous because motorcycles offer little protection compared to passenger vehicles. According to Texas Transportation Code § 545.420, racing on public highways is illegal, and this violation also contributes to serious motorcycle wrecks. When drivers ignore these rules, riders can suffer severe injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and fractures.
When you understand how motorcycle traffic laws work, you can better recognize when another driver’s negligence has caused your injuries. A skilled lawyer who knows how to handle these complex cases could guide you through this process.
What Happens If You Sustain an Injury in a Motorcycle Crash?
If you are injured because another driver violated Houston’s motorcycle traffic laws, you may have grounds to pursue compensation through a personal injury claim. According to Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003, you have two years from the date of your motorcycle crash, in most cases, to file a complaint if you have a personal injury claim. This starts the lawsuit, so missing that statutory deadline anywhere in the state could mean losing your right to recover damages altogether.
A knowledgeable, local attorney could help you navigate the insurance process, calculate damages, and present evidence of the other party’s negligence. Insurance companies may attempt to minimize payouts for your injuries or shift the blame onto you as a motorcycle rider. Consequently, working with an experienced lawyer helps ensure your rights remain protected.
Call a Houston Attorney for Guidance About Motorcycle Traffic Laws
At KGS Law PLLC, we care deeply about the city’s riding community and believe every injured motorcyclist deserves an advocate who will fight for their future. Our team could review your situation and explain how Houston motorcycle traffic laws may affect your recovery options. A dedicated lawyer from our firm could guide you through each stage of the claims process and help you seek compensation after your motorcycle crash. Contact us today.