Are Bicycle Helmets Required By Law in Texas?

Bicycle helmets help to prevent traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). They can save lives and it is recommended that cyclists wear a helmet every time that they ride. With that being said, there is no state law in Texas that mandates bicycle helmets for either adults or children. Though some municipalities do have bike helmet requirements, particularly for minors. Here, our Sugar Land bicycle accident lawyer provides an overview of the bike helmet requirements in Texas.

Texas Does Not Require Bicycle Helmets 

Texas does not have a statewide law requiring bicyclists to wear helmets. Riders of all ages can legally operate a bicycle without wearing a helmet. While helmets are strongly recommended for safety, the decision to wear one is left entirely to the specific rider. There are many other states that require bicycle helmets for minors, but that is not the case in Texas.

 Some Municipalities Mandate Bike Helmets (Usually for Minors) 

Although Texas law does not mandate bicycle helmets for any riders, there are many local ordinances in place in municipalities all across the state. Indeed, some cities in Texas have their own local laws requiring bicycle helmets. In the vast majority of cases, these local regulations are focused on minors. Many mandate that children under a certain age wear a helmet while riding.

For example, in Houston, the municipal code requires anyone under age 18 to wear an approved bicycle helmet while riding or riding as a passenger. Adults are not required to wear helmets, but parents can face penalties if they knowingly allow a minor under 14 to ride without one. Along the same lines, in Sugar Land, the city ordinance prohibits anyone under 16 from riding a bicycle on public property without a helmet.

Safety Recommendation: You Should Wear a Bike Helmet Every Time You Ride

Bicycle helmets dramatically reduce the risk of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). They can help to prevent catastrophic brain damage and even save lives. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) strongly encourages all cyclists to wear a properly-fitted bike helmet each and every time they ride. Accidents can happen when you least expect it. Unfortunately, cyclists in Texas cannot always trust drivers to take proper care. For example, a driver may run a red light and strike a bicyclist. That driver can and should be held liable for their negligence. An injured cyclist can bring a claim even if they were not wearing a helmet for protection. Of course, avoiding serious injury is always best. Bike helmets can make a big difference.

Note: Children and teenagers are especially vulnerable. It is imperative that minors wear a bike helmet. Even if it is not required in your specific jurisdictions, bike helmets matter.

Set Up a Free Consultation With Our Texas Bike Accident Lawyer Today

At Henrietta Ezeoke Law Firm, our Sugar Land bicycle accident attorney is a strong, dedicated advocate for justice. If you were hurt in a bike accident (with or without a helmet), we can help. Give us a call now or contact us online for your free consultation. We fight tirelessly for the maximum compensation for bike accident victims in Southeast Texas.

Source:

txdot.gov/safety/traffic-safety-campaigns/bicycle-safety.html