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What Age Can a Child Ride on the Back of a Motorcycle in Texas?

February 26, 2025 | By Francis Injury: Car & Truck Accident Lawyers
What Age Can a Child Ride on the Back of a Motorcycle in Texas?

Texas law states that a child must be at least five years old to ride on the back of a motorcycle. According to Texas Transportation Code Section 545.416, children under five are prohibited from riding as passengers, and violating this law can result in a fine ranging from $100 to $200.

Texas Laws for Motorcycle Passengers

Texas has specific laws in place to ensure the safety of motorcycle passengers, especially children. These include:

  • Minimum Age Requirement: Children must be at least 5 years old to ride on the back of a motorcycle.
  • Helmet Law: Texas law requires all motorcycle passengers under 21 years old to wear a helmet unless they meet exemption criteria.
  • Footrests and Handholds: Under Malorie’s Law, motorcycles carrying two people must have foot pegs and handholds for the passenger’s safety.
  • Proper Seating: A child must sit in a designated passenger seat or an attached sidecar. Placing a child in front of the driver is illegal.

Are There Age Restrictions for Motorcycle Passengers in Other States?

Yes, different states have varying minimum age requirements for motorcycle passengers. Below is a table summarizing the age restrictions across the United States:

State Minimum Passenger Age Helmet Requirement
Texas 5 years Under 21 must wear a helmet
California No minimum age Helmet required for all riders
Florida No minimum age Under 21 must wear a helmet
New York No minimum age Helmet required for all riders
Louisiana 5 years Helmet required for all riders
Arkansas 8 years Under 21 must wear a helmet
Hawaii 7 years Under 18 must wear a helmet
Missouri No minimum age Under 26 must wear a helmet
What Age Can a Child Ride on the Back of a Motorcycle in Texas

How to Keep Kids Safe on a Motorcycle

Even if your child meets the legal age requirement, safety should always be the top priority. Here are essential safety tips:

  • Helmet Fit: Ensure your child’s helmet fits snugly and meets NHTSA safety standards.
  • Protective Gear: Invest in a sturdy motorcycle jacket, gloves, long pants, and boots.
  • Passenger Belt: Consider a motorcycle harness or safety belt to secure younger children.
  • Footpeg Reach: If your child cannot reach the footpegs comfortably, they should not be a passenger.
  • Pre-Ride Instructions: Teach your child how to hold on, lean during turns, and remain still while the motorcycle is in motion.

Common Injuries Sustained by Children in Motorcycle Accidents

  • Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
  • Fractured Bones
  • Internal Organ Damage
  • Road Rash and Skin Abrasions
  • Spinal Cord Injuries

Children are especially vulnerable in motorcycle accidents. If your child has been injured in a crash, seek immediate medical attention and consult a personal injury lawyer to explore your legal options.

What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident Involving a Child

  • **Check for Injuries:** Call 911 immediately for medical assistance.
  • **Preserve the Scene:** Avoid moving the motorcycle unless it’s unsafe to leave it.
  • **Document the Accident:** Take photos of the scene, damages, and injuries.
  • **Collect Witness Information:** If anyone saw the accident, get their contact details.
  • **Contact a Lawyer:** A motorcycle accident attorney can help you seek compensation for medical expenses and damages.

At Francis Injury, we fight for motorcycle accident victims across Texas. If you or your child were injured while riding as a passenger, contact us for a free consultation today.

📞 Call Now: 817-329-9001

What Age Can a Child Ride on the Back of a Motorcycle in Texas?

Riding a motorcycle with a child as a passenger can be exciting, but it comes with significant risks. In Texas, the law states that children must be at least five years old to ride on the back of a motorcycle (Texas Transportation Code Section 545.416). However, age alone does not determine safety—parents must ensure their child has the necessary protective gear, stability, and understanding of riding safety.

Motorcycle Safety Equipment for Children

Proper safety equipment is essential for child motorcycle passengers. Below are the most important safety items every child should wear when riding on a motorcycle.

  • DOT-Approved Full-Face Helmet: A well-fitting helmet is required by law in Texas for riders under 21. Choose one that is lightweight and DOT-certified.
  • Protective Motorcycle Jacket & Pants: Leather or textile jackets and pants with padding can help prevent road rash.
  • Over-the-Ankle Boots: Motorcycle boots protect against foot and ankle injuries.
  • Protective Gloves: Gloves enhance grip and protect against abrasions.
  • Motorcycle Safety Harness: A harness secures a child to the driver to prevent them from falling off.

Motorcycle Accident Statistics Involving Children

According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcycles account for 14% of all traffic fatalities, but only 3% of registered vehicles. Children who ride as passengers face additional risks:

  • Each year, over 500 children under 15 are involved in motorcycle crashes.
  • Children in motorcycle crashes are four times more likely to suffer fatal injuries than adult passengers.
  • Head trauma is the leading cause of child passenger fatalities in motorcycle accidents.

Training & Licensing Considerations for Parents

While Texas does not require a special license to carry a child passenger, parents should complete a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) Advanced Rider Course. These courses teach:

  • Emergency braking and evasive maneuvers
  • Techniques for adjusting to the added weight of a child passenger
  • Defensive driving strategies to avoid accidents

Insurance and Liability Considerations

Carrying a child as a motorcycle passenger impacts liability in case of an accident. Texas law requires motorcycle operators to carry minimum insurance coverage, but not all policies cover child passengers. Parents should review their policies to ensure adequate protection.

Examining past cases helps parents understand legal and financial consequences.

  • Case #1: A 7-year-old in Houston suffered a traumatic brain injury in a motorcycle crash. The family received a $2.3 million settlement.
  • Case #2: A California child passenger died in a crash due to improperly fitting gear, leading to proposed state law changes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about children riding motorcycles.

  • Can a child ride in a sidecar? Yes, sidecars provide better stability than back seats and reduce the risk of falling.
  • What is the best motorcycle model for carrying a child? Honda Gold Wing, Harley-Davidson Road Glide, and Yamaha FJR1300 offer secure passenger seating.
  • Should children ride on highways? No, children should ride only on low-traffic roads and short trips.

Final Thoughts on Motorcycle Safety for Children

While Texas law allows children over five to ride on motorcycles, safety depends on more than just age. Proper training, safety gear, and defensive driving are essential for preventing injuries. If your child has been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact Francis Injury for a free consultation.

📞 Call Now: 817-329-9001
📍 Serving Dallas, Fort Worth, and all of Texas.

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