Austin, Texas has a vibrant biking culture, including many bicycle rental shops, biking tours and bike paths. As the population grows, Austin is likely to see more bicyclists. Whether you are moving to Austin, visiting our city or if you already live here, it is important to understand bicycle laws so that you can avoid getting in a bicycle accident.
Do Bicycles Follow the Same Rules as Texas Motorists?
All Texas bicyclists, regardless of the city, are to observe the same rules as all other modes of transportation on the road, such as riding with traffic and obeying signs and signals. However, Austin has some specific rules for bicycles as well, such as the following:
- Helmets are required for some riders. In 1996, the Austin City Council passed a helmet law for all ages, but this proved to be so unpopular that the law was changed. Currently, a helmet law is in effect for bicyclists that are 17 years old or younger. Efforts have been made to reintroduce an all-ages helmet law.
- Bicycles are allowed to ride on the sidewalks in most areas; however, it is illegal in some parts of central Austin. You are not allowed to ride bicycles on most of downtown Austin’s sidewalks or on sidewalks on Guadalupe in the area known as “The Drag.” In all, 11 sidewalks restrict bicycle riding. The reason for these restrictions is that these areas have higher foot traffic than any other areas of Austin.
- A front light is required if you are riding at night. The light must be solid (not blinking), white and visible from at least 500 feet away.
Need an Austin Lawyer for a Bicycle Injury?
If you were riding your bicycle and a reckless motorist injured you, then contact our bicycle accident attorney at The Law Offices of Aaron Allison. Our firm has dedicated our lives to helping clients who have been injured by other people’s negligence.
[Did You Know? 189 bicycle accidents in Austin occurred between January and September in 2014.]
The Law Offices of Aaron Allison – Austin Personal Injury Attorney
