Safety Laws

Child Safety Seats

• A child under five and/or falling short of 36 inches on the growth chart must ride in a federally-approved restraint seat secured in the proper manner.

• Infants weighing less than 20 pounds should ride in a rear facing restraint system strapping into the back seat.

• Any child under 17 that is a passenger in your vehicle must buckle up regardless of whether they are perched in the front or back seat.

• Failure to comply with Texas law can result in a fine ranging between $100 and $200.

For more information, see Child Safety Seat requirements and How to Buy a Child Safety Seat.

Motorcycle Helmets

If you have a motorcycle license you are not required to wear a helmet if:

• You are 21 years of age or older;

• Have a minimum of $10,000 of medical insurance coverage; and

• Have attended and finished either a basic or advanced motorcycle safety course.

However, there is one slight catch: in order to let the hair fly free, you need to apply for a Helmet Exemption Sticker from the Texas Department of Public Safety. This process essential entails providing sufficient proof of the above factors and providing the $5 fee per sticker.

Cell Phones

• All types of cell phone usage are allowed, if you have a driver's license with full privileges.

• However, novice drivers in the beginning and intermediate phases of the graduated learning process cannot use cell phones while behind the wheel.

• Also, school bus drivers must avoid cell phone use while passengers are aboard.

Leaving Children Unattended in a Vehicle

Texas is one of a handful of states that criminalize the act of knowingly or intentionally leaving your child in a vehicle. However, the law is not going to kick in if you simply pull up to a curb and quickly step out of the car and drop an envelop in a mailbox all while Junior is fast asleep in the backseat.

The Law of Five and Seven

The key numbers to remember are five and seven. That is, if you leave a child age seven or under alone in a vehicle for five minutes or more, the law kicks in. Also, if you leave you child in the vehicle for more than five minutes with another person age 14 or under the law applies.

You can face a Class C misdemeanor, which may translate into two years behind bars and/or a fine of up to $10,000.

Headlights

Motorcycles

Daytime use is required, unless your motorcycle was manufactured prior to 1975.

Bicycle

When pedaling at night, your bike must be equipped with a front white light and either a red rear light or reflector.

Vehicles

• Headlights are required between one half-hour after sunset to one half-hour before sunrise.

• Headlights must be turned on when visibility, due to foul weather, is less than 1,000 feet.

Reporting a Drunk or Dangerous Driver

Dial 911 if you suspect a driver of being drunk or a road-menace. Try to provide the vehicle's license plate, make, model, location and travel direction.