Stephens Law Firm | August 6, 2025 | Bicycle Accidents
Texas is a great place to get out and ride a bicycle. Many areas are bicycle-friendly, and some residents choose to ride their bikes to and from work, restaurants, and other locations.
Texas has some laws on the books to help protect bicyclists, and many people wonder about the helmet laws that apply to bicycle riders. Dive into all the details below to learn more about the bicycle helmet laws in Texas.
Are Bicycle Riders Required to Wear Helmets in Texas?
There is no statewide law requiring bicycle riders in Texas to wear helmets. Although many states have laws requiring riders under a certain age to wear helmets, Texas does not. However, some cities and municipalities in Texas have their own helmet laws for bicyclists, so it’s always a good idea to look into the local rules wherever you bike.
Some cities require anyone under 18 to wear a bicycle helmet. For example, the city of Austin, TX requires bicycle riders who are 17 and under to wear a helmet while riding. This rule and similar rules in other cities help keep younger individuals safe in a bicycle accident.
Could Not Wearing a Helmet Land the Blame on You After an Accident?
Wearing a helmet could save your life if you are involved in a bicycle accident. Helmets are a great way to prevent brain injuries and other severe injuries in a crash. In personal injury claims, the defendant typically tries to blame the victim to minimize the claim’s value.
In bicycle accidents, the defendant could claim that your failure to wear a helmet contributed to your injuries. If a judge or jury agrees, you might be found to share some of the fault for your injuries. In Texas, you may still be able to recover some compensation for your injuries even if you share some of the fault.
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means a victim may still recover damages if they were less than 51% at fault for their accident. Their compensation may be reduced by their portion of the fault. So, if you are found to be 30% responsible because you failed to wear a helmet, you could still recover 70% of your compensation.
Are Motorcycle Helmets Required in Texas?
Yes, helmets are generally required for most motorcycle riders and passengers in Texas, with some exceptions.
Although helmets are not required for bicycle riders, everyone operating a motorcycle in Texas must usually wear one. Additionally, Texas specifies minimum safety requirements for motorcycle riders’ helmets. There is, however, an exception to the motorcycle helmet rule.
A rider is not legally required to wear a helmet if they:
- Are at least 21 years old,
- Have completed a motorcycle operator training safety course, and
- Are covered by a health insurance plan providing medical benefits after a motorcycle accident.
Failure to wear a motorcycle helmet can result in a citation and fine. This citation could be classified as a misdemeanor, and the fine might not be less than $10 but not more than $50 for a first offense.
How Could a Personal Injury Lawyer Help After a Bicycle or Motorcycle Accident
Most insurance companies will try to put most of the blame for your injuries on you, especially if you were not wearing a helmet.
An experienced lawyer on your side can help by:
- Handling all communications with the insurance company
- Defending you against the “blame the victim” tactics of many insurance companies
- Gather evidence to establish liability and prove the defendant’s fault
- Put an accurate value on your claim based on all your injuries
- Negotiate a top-dollar settlement for your claim
Although wearing a helmet when riding a bicycle is not required in Texas, it is always a good idea to wear a helmet to protect yourself in case of an accident.
Contact Our Fort Worth Bicycle Accident Lawyers at Stephens Law Firm, PLLC for Help After a Crash
Getting into a bike crash can be overwhelming. While you’re trying to heal from your injuries, the clock is ticking on your right to pursue compensation from the person who caused the wreck. It can help to hire a Fort Worth bicycle accident lawyer to support your case and fight for the money you deserve. Call Stephens Law Firm, PLLC to set up a free consultation.
Contact Our Bicycle Accident Law Firm in Fort Worth, TX
Stephens Law Personal Injury | Wrongful Death | Truck Accidents – Weatherford Office
109 York Ave Suite #201
Weatherford, TX 76086
(817) 409-7000
