Driving in Texas requires a functional understanding of state traffic laws designed to promote safety, prevent accidents, and regulate road usage. Whether you’re a local driver, a new resident, or simply visiting the state, following these rules can help you avoid fines, penalties, and potential accidents.

At RTRLAW, we have seen firsthand how violations of traffic laws can lead to accidents, injuries, and legal complications. This guide provides an overview of the most important Texas road laws to keep you informed and safe while driving in the Lone Star State.

1. Speed Limits in Texas

Texas law sets maximum speed limits that vary by location and road type. Exceeding the speed limit can result in fines, and more seriously, it can contribute to serious accidents.

  • Highways & Interstates: The highest speed limit in Texas is 85 mph, primarily on specific toll roads, while most interstates range from 70-75 mph.
  • Urban & Residential Areas: Speed limits typically range from 25-45 mph, with school zones posted at 20 mph.
  • Construction Zones: Speed limits are reduced in work zones, and violations come with increased fines.

Pro Tip: Always pay attention to posted speed limits and adjust your speed to account for road conditions, weather, and traffic flow to ensure safety.

2. Right-of-Way Laws in Texas

Understanding who has the right of way is crucial in preventing collisions at intersections, crosswalks, and merging lanes.

  • Intersections: Drivers approaching an intersection must yield to traffic already in the intersection, especially when turning left.
  • Stop & Yield Signs: Vehicles must come to a complete stop at a stop sign and yield to any vehicles with the right of way.
  • Pedestrian Crosswalks: Drivers must yield to pedestrians in marked and unmarked crosswalks.
  • Emergency Vehicles: Texas has a “Move Over” law which requires drivers to change lanes or slow down when approaching emergency vehicles with flashing lights.

Failure to yield can result in fines, points on your driving record, and liability in the event of an accident.

3. Texas Distracted Driving Laws

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents in Texas, and the state has enacted laws to curb these dangerous behaviors.

  • Texting While Driving: It is illegal to text while driving in the entire state of Texas.
  • Handheld Device Restrictions: Some cities, including Austin and San Antonio, have hands-free ordinances, prohibiting the use of handheld devices while driving.
  • School Zones: Handheld phone use is banned in school zones.

Penalties for texting and driving can result in fines and higher insurance rates, and if an accident occurs, the driver can be held financially and legally responsible.

4. Driving Under the Influence (DUI) and DWI Laws in Texas

Texas has strict penalties for driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI).

Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Limits:

  • 0.08% or higher for drivers 21 and older.
  • 0.04% for commercial drivers.
  • Zero tolerance for drivers under 21 (any detectable alcohol is illegal).

Penalties for a First Offense:

  • Fines up to $2,000.
  • License suspension for up to 1 year.
  • Up to 180 days in jail.

Multiple offenses result in higher fines, longer jail time, and mandatory ignition interlock devices. If you are charged with a DUI or DWI, you should seek legal representation immediately.

5. Lane Usage & Passing Laws

Proper lane usage is essential for optimal traffic flow and accident prevention. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Keep Right, Pass Left: Slower vehicles should stay in the right lane, allowing faster-moving traffic to pass on the left.
  • Passing Laws:
    • Always use your turn signal when changing lanes.
    • Do not pass on the right unless the vehicle in front is turning left.
    • Passing in a No-Passing Zone (such as a solid yellow line) is illegal.
  • HOV Lanes: Certain highways have High-Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes, which require two or more passengers per vehicle.

Failure to follow lane laws can result in anything from tickets and fines to liability in an accident.

6. Motorcycle Laws in Texas

Motorcyclists must follow standard road laws like other vehicles, but they also have additional legal requirements:

  • Helmet Requirements:
    • Riders under 21 must wear a helmet.
    • Riders over 21 can opt out of helmet use if they complete a motorcycle safety course and have medical insurance.
  • Lane Splitting:
    • Lane splitting (riding between lanes of traffic) is illegal in Texas.
  • Passenger Rules:
    • Passengers must be at least five years old and use designated footrests.

If a motorcycle accident occurs, RTRLAW’s Houston motorcycle accident attorneys can help riders secure the compensation they deserve.

7. Bicycle & Pedestrian Laws

Bicyclists and pedestrians have specific rights on Texas roads, but they also have specific responsibilities:

  • Cyclists Must Follow Traffic Laws:
    • Bicycles are considered vehicles, meaning riders must stop at red lights, yield when required, and follow lane rules.
    • Bicyclists must use hand signals when turning.
  • Safe Passing Law:
    • Motorists must allow at least three feet of space when passing a cyclist.
  • Pedestrian Right-of-Way:
    • Pedestrians have the right-of-way at marked and unmarked crosswalks.

Negligence by drivers, cyclists, or pedestrians can lead to serious injuries—and RTRLAW is here to help victims seek justice.

8. Car Insurance Requirements in Texas

All Texas drivers must carry minimum liability insurance to cover damages in the event of an accident:

  • $30,000 for bodily injury per person.
  • $60,000 for bodily injury per accident.
  • $25,000 for property damage.

Texas follows an “at-fault” system, meaning the driver responsible for the accident is liable for damages. If you’re in an accident with an uninsured driver, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage can help to cover your losses.

How RTRLAW Can Help After a Traffic Violation or Accident

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, truck accident, or motorcycle accident due to someone else’s negligence, RTRLAW is here to fight for you. Our experienced auto injury attorneys can help you:

  • Determine liability and investigate your accident.
  • Negotiate with insurance companies to secure fair compensation.
  • Pursue legal action if necessary, ensuring you get the justice you deserve.

Understanding and following Texas traffic laws can prevent accidents and keep you safe. However, if you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, RTRLAW is ready to fight for your rights.

Call us at 972-478-1801 for a free consultation or visit our website to learn more. Our dedicated personal injury attorneys are here to help you recover the compensation you deserve.