Seguin Motorcycle Traffic Laws
Motorcycles are a popular choice for transportation, but they come with several risks. These vehicles are much smaller than the cars and trucks they share the road with. This increases the chances of an accident due to their limited visibility.
Riders are also more likely to suffer serious injuries in a crash due to the lack of safety features. Given these risks, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of Seguin motorcycle traffic laws. A dedicated motorcycle accident attorney could advise you when you are hurt in a crash through no fault of your own.
Basic Requirements
Before a person can legally operate a motorcycle in Seguin, they must meet a few basic requirements under the law. First, they need to obtain a Class M driver’s license and ensure it remains valid. Texas also requires all riders to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance. This coverage exists to protect a person from legal claims filed by other people in the case of an accident. The minimum levels of coverage include the following:
- $30,000 for bodily injuries per person
- $60,000 for bodily injuries per accident
- $25,000 for property damage
In addition to insurance and licensing issues, there are also helmet laws. Any person riding on a motorcycle who is under 21 is required to wear a helmet. The same is true for adults, but having health insurance or completing a safety course allows a rider to ignore that requirement.
Rules Regarding Passengers
The ability to carry a passenger on a bike is carefully restricted. Under the law, a rider may only carry a second person if the vehicle is designed for passengers. That means single-seat dirt bikes cannot have more then one person, but larger motorcycles with a double seat can.
In addition to seating space, the passenger must have available handholds and footrests available to them. Riders under the age of five are prohibited unless they are carefully situated in a sidecar attached to the bike. Any failure to follow these motorcycle traffic laws in Seguin can lead to a citation for the rider.
Ban on Lane Splitting
Lane splitting is the act of riding in between lanes when traffic has slowed nearby cars or trucks. Many motorcyclists would prefer to split lanes to avoid traffic. While lane splitting is convenient, it can also be dangerous for drivers attempting to change lanes. For that reason, the state has outlawed these maneuvers.
Bikers do have some additional freedoms not available in larger cars. Two riders may travel side-by-side in the same lane, but they cannot attempt to pass other vehicles in a single lane. Motorists are also prohibited from encroaching on their space.
Talk to an Attorney in Seguin About Motorcycle Traffic Laws
By understanding Seguin motorcycle traffic laws, you can put yourself in the best position to avoid a crash and stay healthy. Unfortunately, your best efforts might not be enough to avoid a crash with a negligent motorist.
You deserve legal counsel who understands your rights and has experience navigating the injury claims process. If successful, you can recover damages based on your physical, emotional, and financial losses. After a crash, reach out to an attorney for a private consultation.
