Safety Tips - Motorcycles

Someone dies nearly every day riding a motorcycle in Texas. If you ride a motorcycle, you can help reduce the number of deaths and possibly save your own life by wearing a helmet.

Motorcycle Helmet Law

State law says motorcyclists must wear helmets, with two exceptions for riders 21 and older. No helmet is required if the rider:

  • has successfully completed a motorcycle safety course, or
  • has proof of health insurance with a minimum of $10,000 coverage for injuries resulting from a motorcycle crash.

If you get cited for not wearing a helmet, you can be fined and incur court costs.

Tips for Motorcycle Riders

Motorcyclists don't have the protection of safety belts, air bags, door beams and other cushioning that cars and trucks have. To help keep you safe, remember to:

  • wear a helmet and other protective gear,
  • turn on your headlights and ride defensively,
  • avoid the center of the lane where debris and oil build up,
  • ride at a safe speed and never ride if you've been drinking, and
  • take a course to learn or reinforce safe riding techniques.

Give Us Your Feedback

We want your ideas! Please contact us if you have an idea to improve motorcycle safety on state maintained roadways or you have experienced a problem as a rider with a particular highway.

Tips for Drivers

  • Be on the lookout for cyclists on the highway, especially at intersections.
  • If you're passing a motorcyclist, treat them the same as a car or truck. Move over completely and allow the motorcyclist a full lane.
  • Watch for riders who may need to maneuver around potholes and debris.

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