Motorcycle Laws Regarding Children in Texas
Taking your child for a ride on a motorcycle might sound like a fun bonding experience, but Texas has strict laws about when and how children can legally ride. These rules are designed to protect young passengers from serious harm, and violating them can lead to fines, criminal charges, or worse if a motorcycle accident occurs.
Before allowing a child on your motorcycle in Texas, it’s important to understand who can ride, what equipment is required, and what safety laws apply.
How Old Must a Child Be to Ride on a Motorcycle in Texas?
Under Texas law, children must be at least five years old to ride as a passenger on a motorcycle. This age requirement is set by Section 545.416 of the Texas Transportation Code. However, note that there is an exception for motorcycles that have sidecars.
Children five and older may ride only if the motorcycle is designed to carry more than one person, meaning it must have a permanent passenger seat and footrests. Carrying a child on a bike without proper passenger equipment could lead to a traffic citation or worse.
What Equipment Is Required for Child Passengers?
If your child is legally allowed to ride, there are still important safety rules to follow. Texas law requires all motorcycle riders and passengers under 21 to wear a helmet that meets federal safety standards.
Here’s what’s required for child motorcycle passengers in Texas:
- DOT-approved helmet (mandatory under 21)
- Passenger seat and footrests such that your child can sit securely and place their feet on the footrests
Even if your child meets the legal age requirement, they may not be physically ready to ride. If they cannot hold on securely or their feet can’t reach the pegs, it could pose a serious safety risk.
Can You Be Ticketed or Arrested for Violating These Rules?
Yes. Violating Texas motorcycle passenger laws can result in fines and criminal penalties. Allowing a child under five to ride is considered a misdemeanor, which can lead to a fine of between $100 and $200.
If a collision occurs and a child is injured, the consequences can be much more severe. Law enforcement may pursue charges such as child endangerment, and any civil lawsuits related to the crash could be impacted by the fact that the law was broken.
Safety Tips for Riding With a Child Passenger
Even if your child is legally allowed to ride, extra caution is always advised. Motorcycles offer less protection than cars, and children are more vulnerable in crashes.
Here are some tips to reduce the risk:
- Practice riding alone first to ensure full control of your bike
- Start with short trips in low-traffic areas to get your child used to riding
- Make sure your child understands the rules, such as keeping their hands on you or the handles at all times
- Avoid high speeds and busy roads when riding with a young passenger
While it’s legal for children over five to ride under the right conditions, it may not always be the safest choice depending on the child’s size, experience, and maturity.
Contact the Texas Motorcycle Accident Lawyers at The Law Firm of Alton C. Todd Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
If you or your child were injured in a motorcycle accident in Texas, it’s important to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible. Whether another driver caused the crash or you’re facing charges for a passenger violation, a criminal defense or personal injury attorney can help protect your rights.
Motorcycle laws involving children in Texas are clear, but real-life situations can still get complicated. Contact our Texas motorcycle accident attorneys at The Law Firm of Alton C. Todd Personal Injury Lawyers for a free consultation today.
Please contact an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer at The Law Firm of Alton C. Todd Personal Injury Lawyers to get a free initial consultation today. We have offices in Friendswood and Galveston, Texas:
The Law Firm of Alton C. Todd Personal Injury Lawyers – Galveston Office
2101 Mechanic St. Suite 253
Galveston, TX 77550
(409) 207-9299
The Law Firm of Alton C. Todd Personal Injury Lawyers – Friendswood Office
312 S. Friendswood Dr.
Friendswood, TX 77546
281-992-8633
