So You Wanna Be a Texas Two-Wheeled Tom Cruise? Hold Your Horses (Literally)
Ever stuck in that soul-crushing Texas traffic, inching forward slower than a tumbleweed in molasses? If you're a motorcycle rider, you might be eyeing those gaps between cars like a they're a personal Autobahn. But hold on to your chaps, buddy, because lane splitting in Texas is about as legal as riding a bull in a china shop.
The Law Lays Down the Lone Star Smackdown
Texas law likes things clear, much like a bowl of chili with no beans (don't get us started on that debate). Splitting lanes, filtering between stopped traffic, or just casually waltzing between cars is a big ol' no-no. The Texas Transportation Code states you gotta stay in your lane, which might seem harsh, but hey, there's a reason for the rules (mostly to avoid you becoming a hood ornament).
But Why Can't I Be a Rebel Without a Cause (On a Motorcycle)?
There are two sides to this story, like a good pair of wranglers. Motorcyclists argue lane splitting allows them to escape congestion and avoid becoming sitting ducks in hot weather (plus, it probably looks pretty darn cool). However, safety advocates point out the dangers of threading the needle between impatient drivers and unpredictable car doors.
Texas seems to be siding with caution (and maybe a dash of stubbornness). They haven't followed suit with California, the cool kid on the block who legalized lane splitting in 2017.
So What's a Lone Star Biker to Do?
Don't fret, friend. Here's your survival guide:
- Embrace the open road: Texas has some epic stretches of highway perfect for cruising. Enjoy the scenery and crank up some Waylon Jennings, because sometimes the journey is better than the destination (especially when that destination is just ten feet away in a traffic jam).
- Patience is a virtue (and a survival tactic): Channel your inner zen master and meditate on the fact that eventually, you will move (eventually).
- Buddy Up: If you're feeling sociable, consider joining a motorcycle group ride. Safety in numbers, and twice the fun!
Remember, looking good on a motorcycle is all about confidence, and there's nothing more confident than knowing you're following the law (and avoiding a hefty ticket). Stay safe out there, Texas two-wheelers!
