Motorcycles are popular in Texas. The state is in the top 10 for the highest number of motorcycle registrations nationwide. In 2021, there were almost 343,300 motorcycles registered in the Lonestar State.
If you want to ride a motorcycle in Texas, you must comply with the motorcycle licensing requirements. You must have a valid motorcycle license and motorcycle insurance. Texas has two types of motorcycle licenses.
Motorcycle Licensing Requirements in Texas
Every state has motorcycling licensing laws. In Texas, riders must pass written and road tests to obtain a motorcycle license. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) provides the requirements for obtaining a motorcycle license. The two types of licenses you can apply for are a Class M license and a Class M license with restrictions.
Applying for a Class M Driver’s License in Texas
The requirements for applying for a motorcycle license in Texas include, but might not be limited to:
- You must be at least 15 years old
- Provide proof of residency and identity
- Have a satisfactory driving record
- Pass a written test given by the Texas DPS
- Pass a vision test
- Complete a motorcycle operator training and safety course
- Pass a skills test given by the Texas DPS
Depending on the individual, there could be other requirements, such as minors between the ages of 15 and 17. Some of the requirements might be waived or not apply to some persons.
Furthermore, the requirements for a motorcycle license could change. Therefore, it is wise to check with the Texas DPS to confirm the requirements before obtaining a Class M driver’s license in Texas.
The motorcycle safety course must be completed through an approved provider. You must bring the certificate of completion to the DPS. The motorcycle safety course requirement is waived if you have a valid motorcycle license from another state.
What Are Class M Restrictions?
A Class M license with restrictions means the DPS added a restriction code to the license. For example, if you are under 18 years old, the Graduated Driver License (GDL) restriction limits when and how you can ride a motorcycle during the first year you have your Class M license. An “I” restriction on a Class M license, which applies to 15-year-olds, means you can only ride a motorcycle with 250 CCs or less.
Riding a Motorcycle in Austin, Texas
Many people living in Austin love to ride their motorcycles. When you ride a motorcycle anywhere in Texas, you are required to follow the Texas motorcycle laws, such as motorcycle helmet laws, requirement for liability insurance, and traffic laws.
Motorcycle riders also have a duty to operate their motorcycles with reasonable care. If a rider causes an accident, they can be liable for the damages caused by the collision.
Sadly, many motorcycle accidents in Austin are caused by negligent motorists. Drivers are distracted, speeding, or drunk when they hit a motorcycle. Motorcyclists often sustain catastrophic injuries because they have no protection from the impact, even though motorcycle safety gear can reduce the risk of severe injuries.
Motorcyclists can help avoid accidents by remaining vigilant and alert while riding. Watch for other motorists and hazards that could cause an accident. Practice the safe motorcycle riding habits learned during your motorcycle safety course.
Types of Injuries Sustained by Motorcyclists
An Austin motorcycle accident can cause traumatic injuries for the rider. Common injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident include:
- Fractures and broken bones
- Lacerations and abrasions (road rash)
- Traumatic brain injury
- Neck injuries
- Amputations and loss of limbs
- Paralysis
- Internal organ damage
- Back injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident in Texas, contact the police by calling 911. Seek immediate medical treatment for your injuries. Delays in medical care could reduce your chance of recovering fair compensation for your injuries.
You may also want to schedule a free consultation with an Austin motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible. Motorcycle accidents often cause significant damage. An attorney can help you recover compensation for your economic and non-economic damages.
An experienced Austin motorcycle accident attorney can also help protect you from allegations of contributory fault. Insurance companies often unfairly blame the motorcyclist for causing or contributing to the cause of an accident. They shift the blame to avoid liability for damages.
The at-fault party and their insurance provider might use unfair stereotypes about motorcyclists and other unjust practices to blame you for causing your injuries. Hiring a personal injury lawyer gives you an advantage by reducing the unequal odds between you and the insurance company.
Contact Our Motorcycle Accident Law Firm in Austin, TX
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Austin and need legal help, contact our Austin motorcycle accident lawyers at FVF Law to schedule a free consultation with our team.
FVF Law
3101 Bee Caves Rd #301, Austin, TX 78746, United States
(512) 982-9328
