Out of Control
Distracted driving continues to be a critical issue on roads nationwide. GHSA Executive Director Jonathan Adkins speaks to how frequent under-reporting of distraction makes it difficult to assess the issue's severity.
GHSA maintains data on state laws surrounding a number of highway safety issues. Below is information regarding laws in the state of Texas. For more information, consult the State Highway Safety Office.
Helmets required for all riders under 21 as well as those who have not completed a safety course or have no medical insurance (secondarily enforced). Universal helmet law repealed 1997.
6 years
85 and over: renewal every 2 years 79 and over: no electronic or mail renewal
75; 80 or 85 on specified segments
75
75
75
75
75; 80 or 85 on specified segments
0.15
90 days if .08 or greater; 180 days for refusal
Yes
Mandatory for repeat convictions and first-time offenders with a BAC of greater than .15
Yes
Yes
Under 8 yrs or under 57" tall
8 yrs or older or over 57"
18 years
15
6
30 (10)
16
Midnight - 5 a.m. (secondary enforcement)
No more than 1 under 21 (secondary enforcement)
Primary
7 and under who are over 57" 8 and over
All
Yes, in school crossing zones and on public school property only. Primary law.
Yes, with minor passengers. Primary law.
Drivers under 18. Primary law.
All drivers. Primary law.
Prohibited
n/a
Prohibited
n/a
None
Illegal
None
Distracted driving continues to be a critical issue on roads nationwide. GHSA Executive Director Jonathan Adkins speaks to how frequent under-reporting of distraction makes it difficult to assess the issue's severity.
Speed is a persistent and yet overlooked traffic safety issue across the country. In this analysis of speeding in Texas, GHSA's Russ Martin speaks to the need for more attention to be paid to this challenge.
Story by Anna Tinsley
July 26, 2018
The lawyers at Patterson Law Group wake up every day with one goal in mind — provide access to justice to those who are hurting, regardless of the severity.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 6, 2017
Contact: Madison Forker, mforker@ghsa.org
202-789-0942 x120
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) congratulates Texas and Iowa for taking important steps to combat distracted driving.
The personal injury lawyers at Sutliff & Stout focus their practice on helping victims of car and trucking accidents in Houston and Austin, as well as the surrounding areas.
The American Association of State Transportation Officials (AASHTO) presented its President’s Transportation Award for Highway Traffic Safety to the Texas DOT Child Passenger Safety Seat Education and Distribution Program.
Motorcycle Helmet Required?
Helmets required for all riders under 21 as well as those who have not completed a safety course or have no medical insurance (secondarily enforced). Universal helmet law repealed 1997.
Length of Regular Renewal Cycle
6 years
Rural Interstates: Cars (MPH)
75; 80 or 85 on specified segments