Because bicycles are treated as vehicles for most purposes under the law, bicyclists must follow many of the same traffic laws as other drivers. Still, bicyclists lack the protection of a steel frame, airbags, and seatbelt, placing them at greater risk of serious injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, in case of an accident. In many areas, bicyclists are subject to additional rules because of their vulnerable status, and many states have implemented mandatory helmet laws. If you become injured in a bike accident and were not following the helmet laws of the area, you may not be able to recover compensation through a San Antonio bicycle accident claim.
Texas Bicycle Helmet Law
Unlike many other states, Texas does not have a statewide helmet law that requires bicyclists to wear helmets. While some states require this of all bicyclists or those of a certain age, this is not the law in Texas. Anyone can legally operate a bicycle without wearing a helmet unless there is a city-wide ordinance that says otherwise.
Bicycle Helmet Laws in Texas Cities
Although there is no formal statewide helmet law, certain cities and municipalities have enacted their ordinances requiring bicyclists to wear helmets. These local rules include:
- Austin: All children must wear a helmet when riding in the city of Austin, including in public parks and on trails.
- Dallas: All bicyclists are required to wear a helmet when riding on public roads or trails in Dallas, regardless of age.
- Houston: Children under 14 years of age must wear a helmet when riding a bicycle, in a sidecar, or in a seat attached to a bicycle.
- San Antonio: Bicyclists under 18 years of age are required to wear helmets when riding in the city of San Antonio.
Violating these laws can result in the bicyclist being fined and facing other penalties.
Importance of Helmet Use
Even when you’re riding in an area in Texas where helmet use is not mandatory, it is still good practice to always wear a helmet. You are at risk of getting into a bicycle accident every time you ride your bike. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, 2,604 traffic crashes involving bicyclists in Texas occurred in 2023, which resulted in 106 fatalities and 384 serious injuries. The top contributing factors in these crashes were driver inattention, failing to yield the right of way, and speeding.
One of the most severe injuries someone can suffer in a bike accident is a traumatic brain injury. The National Safety Council reports that wearing a bicycle helmet can reduce the risk of a head injury by 50%. More than half of the people killed in bike accidents in a recent year were not wearing helmets, according to the National Safety Agency. Helmets help prevent serious injuries to the head and brain by absorbing the force of impact.
Wearing a helmet can help protect you in the event of an accident. It can also help with your legal claim by showing that you cared about safety and obeyed any local ordinances.
Contact Our Bicycle Accident Lawyers for Legal Assistance
Bicycle laws are complex. If you were injured in a bicycle accident, the San Antonio accident attorney at George Salinas Injury Lawyers can help. Contact us today for a free consultation.