If you ride a motorcycle in Killeen, Texas, understanding state and local laws is essential for your safety and legal protection. Here is what every rider needs to know.

Helmet Laws in Texas

Texas has a partial helmet law:

Riders under 21 years old must wear a DOT-approved helmet at all times
Riders 21 and older may ride without a helmet only if they have completed a motorcycle safety course or have health insurance that covers motorcycle accident injuries
Passengers follow the same rules as the operator regarding helmet requirements

While not required for all riders over 21, wearing a helmet significantly reduces the risk of traumatic brain injury in the event of a crash.

Lane Splitting is Illegal in Texas

Unlike California, Texas does not allow lane splitting. Lane splitting — riding between two lanes of traffic — is illegal under Texas law. Riders can be ticketed for this practice. However, Texas law does allow riders to share a lane with another motorcycle if both riders agree.

Insurance Requirements

Texas law requires all motorcyclists to carry minimum liability insurance:

$30,000 for bodily injury per person
$60,000 for bodily injury per accident
$25,000 for property damage per accident

Given the high cost of motorcycle accident injuries, we recommend carrying significantly higher limits, as well as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

Equipment Requirements

Texas law requires your motorcycle to have:

A working headlight (must be on at all times while riding)
A taillight and brake light
Turn signals (if the motorcycle was manufactured with them)
A rearview mirror (at least one)
A muffler (no modified exhausts that exceed noise limits)

Passenger Laws

In Texas, you may carry a passenger only if your motorcycle is designed to carry one. The passenger must have a separate seat and footrests. There is no minimum age for passengers, but they must be able to reach the footrests.

What Happens If You Are in an Accident

If you are involved in a motorcycle accident in Killeen:

Call 911 and report the accident
Exchange information with the other driver
Do NOT admit fault
Seek medical attention
Call a Killeen motorcycle accident lawyer

Know Your Rights

Motorcycle riders have the same rights to the road as other motorists. If you are injured due to someone else's negligence, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Contact a Killeen Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident in Killeen, contact us today for a free consultation. We know Texas motorcycle laws and how to fight for your rights.

Texas Motorcycle Laws: What Every Rider in Killeen Should Know