Texas Motorcycle Law: Malorie’s Law
On January 1, 2015, the Texas legislature ultimately enacted a law to change how motorcyclist carries their passengers. This law went into effect to encompass current motorcycle passenger laws. It also adds additional stipulations. These stipulations are that passenger motorcycles, by law, need to have handholds and footpegs on the back seat.
This law went into effect stages starting in 2013, and all the steps are now implemented. Malorie’s Law began after a 2010 motorcycle accident involving Texas A&M University-Commerce student Malorie Bullock. Malorie was riding on the back of a motorcycle when the driver swerved off the road. The driver attempted to avoid hitting a truck that pulled in front of them. Malorie was wearing a helmet at the time; however, she was tossed off the bike and fatally injured. Malorie’s family and several politicians decided to pass a law to save lives. Let’s look at the law.
Malorie’s Law
Texas first passed Malorie’s law to protect passengers from fatal injuries. The final additions to the law were made and implemented in 2015. The Law states:
- Passengers are not to ride on bikes not designed for their occupancy
- Bikes with passengers must have footpegs
- Passengers must have a bar or strap they can hold on to in the event of drastic maneuvering.
If a motorcyclist and passenger do not comply with the law, they will be charged with a Class C Misdemeanor. This violation is similar to other traffic violations and may cost up to $500 in fees.
Texas Motorcycle Accidents
Statically, motorcycle riders face some of the most significant risks for injury and death of any vehicle on the road. Malorie’s law is an important step toward keeping Texas motorcycle riders safe. However, there is some ambiguity in this law. While the law stipulates that the motorcyclist must hold onto a suitable bar or strap, it does not provide other guidelines. This leaves the law up for interpretation of compliance.
Walker Texas Lawyer understands the roads can be dangerous for motorcyclists. We know that the negligence or recklessness of other drivers on the road can cause disasters for riders and their passengers. If you have been in a motorcycle accident and have questions, call Walker Texas Lawyer. He is Houston’s Motorcycle Lawyer.
