Texas holds the distinction of being a state with one of the highest motorcycle registrations in the country. Unfortunately, it’s also one of the states with the highest number of motorcycle fatalities. In 2023 alone, nearly 600 riders lost their lives in collisions. Often, these accidents occur because people aren’t fully aware of motorcycle laws in Texas.
The team of Bedford motorcycle accident attorneys at Parker Law Firm Injury Lawyers offers assistance to people who’ve suffered losses in collisions caused by others. Below, you’ll learn about motorcycle laws and how we can help you after a crash.
Contact our law office in Bedford, TX, at (817)-503-9200 for a free initial consultation if you need assistance.
How Parker Law Firm Injury Lawyers Can Help You After a Motorcycle Accident in Bedford, TX
Motorcycles don’t offer the same protections that other motor vehicles do. There is no structure around you to take the brunt of a collision, nor are there any airbags to protect you from any impacts. Therefore, in the event that a crash occurs, bikers are much more likely to suffer catastrophic injuries.
At Parker Law Firm Injury Lawyers, our Bedford personal injury lawyers can help you file a claim for compensation if someone’s negligent or wrongful conduct led to the crash.
We offer services that include the following:
- Assessing your case during a free consultation
- Gathering evidence to show how the accident occurred
- Negotiating with insurance companies to get you fair compensation
- Taking your claim to court, if necessary
We have more than 30 years of combined experience helping people throughout Texas recover compensation for their losses. We are a boutique law firm with a focus on providing our clients with the utmost attention, which means you’ll never be one more case in a pile.
Contact our team in Bedford, Texas, today to get started.
Understanding Texas Motorcycle Laws
Texas has a number of laws that motorcycle riders and other motorists on the road have to abide by.
Requirements To Operate a Motorcycle
To operate a motorcycle in Texas, you must have a valid motorcycle license (Class M driver’s license). To apply for one as a minor, you must be 15 or older and have completed a Motorcycle Safety Course (MSB-9 or MSB-8R). Any applicant under the age of 18 must take a motorcycle driving test as well.
Adults can complete a Motorcycle Safety Course, which allows the Texas Department of Public Safety to waive the motorcycle knowledge test. People 18 or older with valid, unrestricted Texas Class A, B, or C licenses and who have completed a safety course can waive the driving test as well.
Riders under 21 must wear helmets when riding a motorcycle. Those older than 21 are exempt from using a helmet if they completed a Department-approved Motorcycle Operator Training Course or if they have at least $10,000 of medical insurance coverage.
On the subject of insurance, you must also carry liability insurance to legally operate a motorcycle in the state of Texas. You need a minimum liability coverage of $30,000 per injured person and $60,000 per accident, as well as $25,000 for property damage per collision.
Lane Access
In Texas, motorcycles have full-lane access, which means that they can take up an entire lane. Two motorcycles can ride side-by-side or in a staggered formation. Lane-splitting and filtering, however, are illegal; you cannot operate a motorcycle between lanes of traffic that are moving in the same direction.
Registration and Inspection
All motorcycles must be registered and inspected before being allowed on the road. A motorcycle inspection ensures that the vehicle is fit to be on the street. You must also display the registration sticker. Unless your motorcycle was manufactured before 1975, it’s required to have a daytime headlamp. A valid license plate must be affixed to the bike’s rear as well.
Motorcycle Passengers
It’s illegal to have passengers under the age of 5 on a motorcycle unless the bike has a sidecar. All passengers must ride on a permanent seat, and they must have footrests and handholds available. Passengers under the age of 21, like riders of the same age, must wear a helmet.
Schedule a Free Case Review With Our Experienced Bedford Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Getting into a motorcycle accident can mean facing significant injuries and property damage. If the accident was the result of someone else’s negligent or wrongful conduct, you may have the right to file a claim to recover damages.
Our Texas personal injury lawyers have decades of experience negotiating with insurance companies and advocating for clients in court, if necessary.
Contact Parker Law Firm Injury Lawyers today to schedule a free consultation with one of our Bedford motorcycle accident attorneys.
