Traffic Code - Powerpoint

TC 521.025 License to Be Carried and Exhibited on Demand; Criminal Penalty •Punishable by fine not to exceed $_______, except that •Second conviction in 1 year $25-$200 •Third conviction in 1 year from date of second conviction fine $25-$500, confinement not less _______ hrs to more than 6 months, or both

200; 72

fire hydrant

15 ft

park away from curb

18 in

TC 542.401 General Penalty Unless there is a specific fine listed the fine shall be not less than $____ or more than $______

1; 200

Crosswalk at an intersection

20 ft

driveway entrance to a fire station

20 ft

TC 542.4045 Penalty for FYROW resulting in Accident •If shown on trial that FYROW of operator resulted in accident •Offense punishable by fine $500-$__________, if person other than operator of vehicle suffered bodily injury in accident

2000

TC 521.029 Operation of Motor Vehicle By New State Residents Upon become a new resident of this state must obtain state license no later than ________ days, if: •______ years of age or older and possesses out of state license •If prosecuted, violator must prove they have not been a resident longer than 90 days

90; 16

•Greeting and Identification of Agency •Statement of Violation Committed •Identification of Driver and Check of Conditions of Violator and Vehicle •Statement of Action to be Taken •Take Action Stated •Explain What Violator Must Do •Leave

7 Step Violator Contact

opposite side of the street of a fire station

75 ft

•Common area at the junction of Two Highways •NOT including an alley joining a Highway •Only the common area within the connection of lateral curb lines or if no curbs •Lateral boundary lines of the roadways joining at approximate right angles or •At a point where vehicles could collide if traveling on roadways where highways intersect at any angle other than approximate right angles •If divided roadways are separated by at least 30' they are considered separate intersections (TC 541.303)

Intersection

"_________ _______ ______ ________"- motor vehicle that is: -Equipped with non-straddle seat for use of: -The rider; and -Passenger, if designed by manufacturer to transport passenger; -Designed to propel itself w/ 4 or more tires in contact with ground; -Designed by manufacturer for off highway use operator only; and -Not designed by manufacturer primarily for farming or lawn care

Recreational Off Highway Vehicle

•means a carrier that operates cars, other than streetcars, on stationary rails to transport persons or property.

Railroad

•A sign signal or device •Erected by a Railroad, public body, or public officer to •Notify traffic of railroad tracks or approaching Train.

Railroad Sign or Signal

•means a steam engine or electric or other motor with or without an attached car operated on rails, other than a streetcar.

Railroad train

•Interconnecting roadway of a traffic interchange or •A connecting roadway between highways at different levels or •Between parallel highways that allow a vehicle to enter or exit a roadway

Ramp

-Industrial emergency response vehicle, when responding to emergency, and licensed by Texas Industrial Emergency Services Board of Texas -EMS vehicle -Firefighting vehicle -Any vehicle used to respond to an emergency of some sort, but has to be licensed by Texas Industrial Emergency Services Board of Texas

Authorized Emergency Vehicle

-Blood or tissue bank, accredited and approved under laws of this state of U.S., when making emergency deliveries of blood, drugs, medicines, or organs

Authorized Emergency Vehicle

-Fire or Police Department Vehicle -Public or Private Ambulance operated by a person licensed by Dept of State Health Services -Emergency medical services vehicle Authorized under an emergency medical services provider license, and Operating under a contract with ems district that requires ems provider to respond to emergency calls

Authorized Emergency Vehicle

-Municipal department or public service corporation emergency vehicle that has been authorized by governing body of municipality -County owned or leased emergency management vehicle that has been authorized by commissioners court

Authorized Emergency Vehicle

"_________ _________ _________" means a license issued to an individual that authorizes the individual to drive a class of commercial motor vehicle.

Commercial driver's license

"__________ _________ _________" means a permit that restricts the holder to driving a commercial motor vehicle as provided by Section 522.011(a)(2)(B) .

Commercial learner's permit

________ _______ _______ (PC 71.01(d)) - three or more persons having a common sign or symbol or identifiable leadership who continuously or regularly associate in the commission of criminal activities.

Criminal Street Gang

•An authorization issued by the department for the operation of a motor vehicle •Includes temporary license or instruction permit; and •Occupational license

Driver's License

TC 545.451 Definitions In this subchapter: (3) "________ ________ ________ ________" means the operational and tactical aspects of operating a vehicle. The term: (A) includes: (i) operational aspects, including steering, braking, accelerating, and monitoring the vehicle and the roadway; and (ii) tactical aspects, including responding to events, determining when to change lanes, turning, using signals, and other related actions; and (B) does not include strategic aspects, including determining destinations or waypoints.

Entire dynamic driving task

Motor Vehicle Designed and used primarily to draw an implement of husbandry Includes a plow or mowing machine

Farm Tractor

GVWR of Trailer more than 20,000 lbs.

Farm Trailer

•Roadway •Divided into at least two clearly marked lanes for vehicular travel.

Laned Roadway

•Area containing at least ONE municipality with a population of at least 100,000 •Includes all adjacent municipalities and unincorporated urban districts

Metropolitan Area

•Motor Vehicle •Designed and Used primarily to DRAW another vehicle •NOT constructed to carry a load other than a part of the weight of the vehicle and its LOAD.

Truck Tractor

TC 542.303 Inchoate Offense •An attempt to commit or conspire to commit an offense under this subtitle is __________ of the offense •A person who ___________, fraudulently, or willfully permits another to violate this subtitle is guilty of the violation.

guilty; falsely

TC 521.021 License Required A person, other than a person expressly exempted under this chapter, may not operate a motor vehicle on a ____________ in this state unless the person holds a drivers license issued under this chapter.

highway

•TC 542.001 Vehicles on Highways A provision of this subtitle relating to the operation of a vehicle applies only to the operation of a vehicle on a ____________ •Unless the provision specifically applies to a different place.

highway

TC 521.027 Persons Exempt From License Requirements The following persons are exempt from license requirements: •Person in the military while operating official military vehicle with in the scope of that service •Person operating road machine, farm tractor or implement of husbandry on a ___________ (unless commercial) •Non-resident on __________ duty who holds a license from out of state this includes a spouse or a child

highway; active

White on a blue placard for __________ disabled

permanently

TC 545.401 Reckless Driving; Offense

up to $200, up to 30 days jail

TC 542.501 Obedience Required to Police Officers and School Crossing Guards •A person may not __________ fail or refuse to comply with a lawful order or direction of a Police Officer •or a School Crossing Guard who is performing crossing guard duties in a school crosswalk to stop and ________ to a pedestrian or who has been trained to direct traffic in a school crossing zone

willfully; yield

TC 542.004 Persons and Equipment Engaged in Work on Highway Surface This subtitle does NOT apply when working on highway unless otherwise stated, but does apply when traveling to or from the ________ area.

work

TC 542.404 Fine for offense in Construction or Maintenance Work Zone •When workers are present and it states on __________ notice to appear that workers were present during offense •Minimum fine is ________ the minimum fine if occurred outside zone •Maximum fine is twice the maximum fine if occurred outside zone •Construction zone must be marked •Where it starts and ends •Must state that traffic fines double

written; twice

•Right of one vehicle or pedestrian to •Proceed in a lawful manner in preference to another vehicle or pedestrian that •Is approaching from a direction, at a speed, and within a proximity that •Could cause a collision unless one yields to the Other

Right of Way

•Motor Vehicle •Designed and used to DRAW another vehicle •But NOT constructed to carry a load independently or a part of the weight of the other vehicle or its load.

Road Tractor

"________ __________" means a self-propelled vehicle that: (A) was originally and permanently designed as machinery; (B) is not designed or used primarily to transport persons or property; and (C) is only incidentally operated on a highway.

Road machinery

•Portion of a highway (other than shoulder) •Improved, designed or ordinarily used for vehicular travel •If highway, includes two or more separate roadways (divided) •Term applies to each roadway separately

Roadway

•Must be displayed in the license plate holder •Must be made of plastic or other resilient material, weather proof, or •Completely enclosed in plastic bag •Can no longer have in window

Rules For All Temporary Tags

_______ _________ - means a lap belt and any shoulder straps included as original equipment on or added to a vehicle.

Safety Belt

•Area in a roadway •Intended for pedestrian use •Protected or so marked or indicated by adequate signs as to be plainly visible at all times

Safety Zone

"_________ _________ _________" includes only a glazing material that is constructed, treated, or combined with another material to reduce substantially, as compared to ordinary sheet or plate glass, the likelihood of injury to persons by an external object or by cracked or broken glazing material.

Safety glazing material

•Bus designed for more than 15 passengers, incl. operator •Owned, operated, or leased by school district or schools •Used to transport on school related activity trip •Does not include chartered bus, mass transit authority bus, school bus or multifunction school activity bus •

School Activity Bus

•Motor Vehicle •Designed to transport school children •To or from school or school related trip •Does not include Chartered Bus or Mass Transit bus •

School Bus

•Responsible Person •At least 18 years of age •Designated by local authority to direct traffic in a school crossing zone

School Crossing Guard

•Reduced speed zone designated on a street by local authority to •Facilitate safe crossing of the street by school children going to or leaving school •during the time the reduced speed limit applies

School Crossing Zone

•Crosswalk •Designated on a street by local authority to •Facilitate safe crossing of the street •by school children

School Crosswalk

Where a public highway separates real property under the control of the owner of a motor vehicle, the operation of the motor vehicle by the owner or the owner's agent or employee across the highway is not a use of the motor vehicle on the public highway.

Sec. 502.144. VEHICLES OPERATED ON PUBLIC HIGHWAY SEPARATING REAL PROPERTY UNDER VEHICLE OWNER'S CONTROL.

•Texas Governmental body •US Governmental body •Providence of Canada

State

An owner may not register the following vehicles for operation on a public highway: (1) power sweepers; (2) motorized mobility devices; (3) electric personal assistive mobility devices; and (4) electric bicycles, as defined by Section 664.001.

TC 542.143 OTHER VEHICLES

•Laws Uniform through out the State •Local Authority may not pass an ordinance that conflicts (voids) with an existing State Law •i.e.: State maximum speed is 70, Dallas can't post 80 •Local Authority can regulate traffic that does not conflict with State Law

TC 542.201 General Rule of Uniformity

•Designate a highway as a through highway •Designate a highway as a one way highway •Designate school crossing guards and school crossing zones •Alter a speed limit as authorized •Adopt other traffic rules allowed

TC 542.202 Powers of Local Authority

•Regulate the time, place, and manner in which a roller skater may use a highway •Regulate the speed of a vehicle in a public park •Regulate or prohibit the turning of a vehicle or specified type of vehicle at an intersection •Designate an intersection as a stop intersection or yield intersection, and requiring each vehicle to stop or yield at one or more entrances to the intersection

TC 542.202 Powers of Local Authority

•Within their jurisdiction may •Regulate traffic by police officers or traffic control devices •Regulate stopping, standing, or parking • Regulate or prohibit a procession or assemblage on a highway •Regulate the operation and requiring registration and licensing of a bicycle or electric bicycle, including payment of a registration fee

TC 542.202 Powers of Local Authority

•A person commits an offense if the person performs an act prohibited or fails to perform an act required. •Except as otherwise provided an offense under this subtitle is a misdemeanor.

TC 542.301 General Offenses

•Any peace officer may arrest without warrant a person found committing a violation of this subtitle.

TC 543.001 Arrest Without Warrant Authorized

•A person arrested must be taken before a magistrate if: •FLID or FSRA or •Person demands to be taken •Magistrate must have jurisdiction of the offense, •is in the county where offense occurred and, •Most accessible to the place of arrest.

TC 543.002 Person Arrested to Be Taken Before Magistrate

•If the person is not taken before a magistrate then you issue a citation. •Must show time and place the person is to appear, •the offense charged, •the name and address of the person charged, •and the license number of the person charged (if applicable).

TC 543.003 Notice to Appear Required: Person Not Taken Before Magistrate

•On a roadway divided into two or more clearly marked lanes for traffic •Shall drive as nearly as practical entirely within a single lane; and •And may not move from that lane unless that movement can be made safely

TC 545.060 Driving on Roadway Laned for Traffic

•Except as otherwise provided you must stop and yield the right of way to a vehicle to your right at an intersection, when it is not controlled, to avoid a collision. •May proceed when clear.

TC 545.151 Vehicle Approaching or Entering Intersection

•May be equipped with no more than two. •On front 24 to 42 inches. •May be used with headlamps as specified in 547.333. (may not shine in the eyes of an approaching vehicle operator)

TC 547.329 Auxiliary Passing Lamps Permitted

•May be equipped with no more than two. •Mounted on front 16 to 42 inches. •May be used with headlamps as specified in 547.333. (may not shine in the eyes of an approaching vehicle operator)

TC 547.330 Auxiliary Driving Lamps Permitted

•May be equipped with lamps to warn other vehicles of hazards. •The lamps shall be mounted at the same level, spaced as wide as practicable on the front and rear. •Visible at distance of 500 feet in normal sunlight. •Lamps shall flash simultaneously and the color requirements are the same as turn signals.

TC 547.331 Hazard Lamps Permitted

•Motor vehicle may be equipped with •Not more than two side cowl (fender) or running board courtesy lights that emit an amber or white light without glare. •One or more back up lamps (while in reverse) that emit an amber or white light.

TC 547.332 Other Lamps Permitted

TC 542.4045 Penalty for FYROW resulting in Accident •If shown on trial that FYROW of operator resulted in accident •Offense punishable by fine $___________-$4000, if person other than operator of vehicle suffered serious bodily injury in accident

1000

nearest rail of a R/R crossing

50 ft

TC 521.042 Accident and Conviction Reports; Individual Records (c) The record of a license holder who is employed as a peace officer, fire fighter, or emergency medical services employee of this state, a political subdivision of this state, or a special purpose district may not include information relating to a traffic accident that occurs while the peace officer, fire fighter, or emergency medical services employee is driving an official vehicle in the course and scope of the license holder's official duties if: •(1) the traffic accident resulted in damages to property of less than $_________; or •(2) an investigation of the accident by a peace officer, other than a peace officer involved in the accident, determines that the peace officer, fire fighter, or emergency medical services employee involved in the accident was not at _________.

1,000; fault

on the approach to a flashing signal

30 ft

on the approach to a stop sign

30 ft

on the approach to a yield sign

30 ft

on the approach to an official traffic control signal located at the side of a roadway

30 ft

TC 521.054 Notice of Change of Address or Name A person has _______ days to: •Change address on DL •Change name if married •May be dismissed if remedied no later than _______ working day after date of offense •Up to $20 administrative fee

30; 20th

HSC 365.034 County Regulations of Litter Near Public Highway Commissioners Court of a County may •prohibit the accumulation of litter for more than _______ days on a persons property within ______ feet of a public highway in the county •Provide for removal (property owner is liable for costs of removal) •Class C

30; 50

TC 521.025 License to Be Carried and Exhibited on Demand; Criminal Penalty If shown during trial that at time of offense they were operating motor vehicle without insurance and caused or was at fault in accident resulting in serious bodily injury to or death of another person it's a class ______ misdemeanor •Defense to prosecution if ; •Produces DL in court, issued to that person, appropriate for type of vehicle and _________ at time of arrest. •Up to $10 administrative fee if defense shown

A; valid

•Motor vehicle •Equipped with a saddle •Three or four tires in contact with the ground •Designed for off road use by operator only

All Terrain Vehicle

•Street •Not used primarily for through traffic •Provides access to rear entrances to buildings or lots along a street

Alley

-private vehicle of an employee or volunteer of a county emergency management division in a county with a population of more than 46,500 and less than 48,000 that is designated as an authorized emergency vehicle by the commissioners court of that county

Authorized Emergency Vehicle

-vehicle designated by DPS -Private vehicle of a volunteer firefighter or certified EMS employee or volunteer when responding to a fire alarm or medical emergency

Authorized Emergency Vehicle

-vehicle used for law enforcement purposes that is owned or leased by a federal governmental entity

Authorized Emergency Vehicle

TC 545.451 Definitions In this subchapter: (1) "_________ __________ ___________" means hardware and software that, when installed on a motor vehicle and engaged, are collectively capable of performing, without any intervention or supervision by a human operator: (A) all aspects of the entire dynamic driving task for the vehicle on a sustained basis; and (B) any fallback maneuvers necessary to respond to a failure of the system.

Automated driving system

TC 545.451 Definitions In this subchapter: (2) "_________ ________ _________" means a motor vehicle on which an automated driving system is installed.

Automated motor vehicle

-Device, person may ride -Propelled by human power -Two tandem wheels -One must be more than 14 inches in diameter

Bicycle

________ _________ means physical pain, illness, or any impairment of physical condition.

Bodily injury

-Motor vehicle Used to transport persons -Designed for more than 10 passengers Includes Operator OR (MV) transports persons for compensation (not Taxi)

Bus

•"___________ __________"- territory adjacent to and including a highway where buildings are used for •Business or Industrial purposes (warehouse) •i.e.: hotels, bank, office building •w/in 600' segment along highway and w/in this area buildings must add up to 300' of frontage •On one side or two added together

Business District

•Combination •Towed unit GVWR over 10,000 pounds •GCWR of 26,001 or more

Class A

•GVWR over 26,000 pounds •Bus - 24 or more passengers

Class B

HSC 365.034 County Regulations of Litter Near Public Highway

Class C

•Everything else •GVWR less than 26,001 pounds

Class C

•Motorcycle •Moped

Class M

"____________ __________ ___________" means a motor vehicle or combination of motor vehicles used to transport passengers or property that: (A) has a gross combination weight or a gross combination weight rating of 26,001 or more pounds, including a towed unit with a gross vehicle weight or a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 10,000 pounds; (B) has a gross vehicle weight or a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 or more pounds; (C) is designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver; or (D) is transporting hazardous materials and is required to be placarded under 49 C.F.R. Part 172, Subpart F.

Commercial motor vehicle

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

Conservation Commission

•Portion of a Roadway, including an intersection •Designated as a pedestrian crossing •By surface markings or •Connection of lateral lines of a sidewalk on opposite sides of a highway measured from curbs •or if no curbs, then the edges of the traversable roadway

Crosswalk

_________ _________ - "Top End" motorcycles that average from 1100cc to 1800 cc in size, and usually equipped with windshields, saddlebags, and accessories.

Cruiser Class

•The period beginning one half hour before sunrise and ending one half hour after sunset

Daytime

________ includes, for an individual who is an unborn child, the failure to be born alive.

Death

•Department of Public Safety (DPS) •Authorized agents and officers

Department

•Public Safety Director

Director

•To discharge, deposit, inject, spill, leak or place litter on or into land or water. HSC 365.011

Dispose and Dump

•Designed to be propelled by an electric motor •Exclusively or in combination with human power •Cannot attain more than 20 mph without application of human power, and •Does not weigh more than 100 lbs

Electric Bicycle

"___________ ____________" means data that is read from or entered into a wireless communication device for the purpose of communicating with another person

Electronic message

•A motor vehicle engine modification designed to control or reduce emissions of substances from motor vehicle or motor vehicle engine, of a model year 1968 or later and installed on or incorporated in compliance with Motor Vehicle Air Pollution Control Act (42 U.S.C. Section 1857 et seq.) or other applicable law. (TC 541.203(1))

Exhaust Emissions System

•Chemical compound or mechanical mixture •Intended to produce an explosion

Explosive

TC 545.253 Buses to Stop At All Railroad Grade Crossings

Fine $50 to $200

•Liquid with a flash point of not more than 70 degrees Fahrenheit

Flammable Liquid

•Divided, controlled access highway •For through traffic

Freeway

•Freeway lane •Having an uninterrupted flow of through traffic.

Freeway Main Lane

•Total weight or weight rating of all combined units and their contents. (GCWR)

Gross Combination Weight Rating

•Weight of vehicle and load it is carrying (GVW - actual weight)

Gross Vehicle Weight

•Means the value of the loaded weight of a single vehicle (GVWR - the most weight a vehicle is designed to carry)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating

Its measured as if the vehicle were unloaded and on level ground and is measured from the center of the lamp or device to the ground.

Height Requirement

facility certified to conduct inspections of vehicles in this chapter

Inspection Station

"_________ __________ _____ __________ _________" means a highway or traffic maintenance or construction vehicle designated by the Texas Department of Transportation. The term includes equipment for: (A) road maintenance or construction, including: (i) equipment for snow removal, line striping, skid resistance testing, sweeping, spraying, guardrail repair, sign maintenance, and temporary traffic-control device placement or removal; (ii) aerial platform lift machines; and (iii) road profiler machines; and (B) road construction or off-road use, including motor graders, road rollers, excavators, pneumatic tire equipment, movers, and tractors

Highway maintenance or construction vehicle

•Width between the boundary lines of •A publicly maintained way •Any part of which is open to the public •For vehicular travel

Highway or Street

•Trailer or semi-trailer, other than RV •One or more sections •Less than 40' not including tow bar (moving) •Built on permanent chassis •Used for dwelling or commercial purposes, if connected to required utilities •And includes plumbing, heating, A/C and electrical systems

House Trailer

TC 545.451 Definitions In this subchapter: (4) "________ _________" means a natural person in an automated motor vehicle who controls the entire dynamic driving task.

Human operator

individual certified to conduct inspections of vehicles in this chapter

Inspector

•Class C - 5 pounds or less or 5 gallons or less •Class B - more than 5 pounds but less than 500 pounds or more than 5 gallons but less than 100 cubic feet

Illegal Dumping

•Disposes or allows individuals to litter •At unapproved site •With-in 300' of public highway, on a right of way or on other public or private property •Or into waters of this State •Violation to receive litter at an unapproved site OR to transport litter to an unapproved site (HSC 365.012)

Illegal Dumping

•Vehicle •Designed for use as a farm implement, machinery, or tool for tilling the soil

Implement of Husbandry

•Paved shoulder

Improved Shoulder

____________ means a human being who is alive, including an unborn child at every stage of gestation from fertilization until birth.

Individual

"__________" means an authorization to operate a motor vehicle that is issued under or granted by the laws of this state. The term includes: •(A) a driver's license; •(B) the privilege of a person to operate a motor vehicle regardless of whether the person holds a driver's license; and •(C) a nonresident's operating privilege.

License

(a) In this section, "_________ ________ _________" means a manual, electronic, or mechanical device designed or adapted to be installed on a motor vehicle and: (1) switch between two or more license plates for the purpose of allowing a motor vehicle operator to change the license plate displayed on the operator's vehicle; or (2) hide a license plate from view by flipping the license plate so that the license plate number is not visible. (TC 504.9465)

License Plate Flipper

•Truck, including pick up truck, panel or carry all •Manufacturer's rated carrying capacity of 2000 pounds or less

Light Truck

"_______ __________" means the ratio of the amount of light that passes through a material to the amount of light that falls on the material and the glazing.

Light transmission

•A highway or roadway to which •Access by persons to enter or exit the highway or roadway is restricted •Except at a place and in the manner designated •i.e.: On-Ramps/Off-Ramps

Limited-Access or Controlled- Access Highway

•Decayable - food product (Not including sewage, body wastes or industrial by-product) •Nondecayable - solid waste •Combustible - paper, wood and rubber •Noncombustible - glass, metal and crockery

Litter

•County, Municipality or other local Department •Authorized to enact Traffic Laws under the Laws of this State •Includes School Districts only when designating School Crossing Guards

Local Authority

•Includes a tire the surface of which in contact with the highway is wholly or partly made of metal or other hard, nonresilient material. (TC 541.203(2))

Metal Tire Defined

•Motor-driven-cycle •Less than 30mph in one mile •No more than 2 brake horsepower •not required to shift gears •50cc or less

Moped

•SELF PROPELLED Vehicle •Or propelled by electric power from overhead trolley wires, does not include electric bicycle or electric personal assistive mobility device

Motor Vehicle

•Motorcycle 250cc or less, does not include electric bicycle

Motor-driven-cycle

•Motor vehicle other than a tractor, •Equipped with riders saddle, •Not more than three wheels in contact with the ground when propelled.

Motorcycle

A _______ _______ is a group of people that ride motorcycles in organized activities, and may wear distinctive clothing to identify their club. •Their primary activities involve the sport of motorcyclling.

Motorcycle Club

•means a device that reduces noise using; •a mechanical design, including a series of chambers or baffle plates, to receive exhaust gas from an internal combustion engine; or •turbine wheels to receive exhaust gas from a diesel engine.

Muffler

•Motor vehicle •Manufactured in compliance with motor vehicle safety standards for school buses •Other than standards requiring display flashing red lights and moveable stop arms. •Used on school related activity trips other than routes to and from school. •not include school bus, school activity bus, school charter bus, or mass transit authority operated bus

Multifunction School Activity Bus

•Period beginning one half hour after sunset and ending one half hour before sunrise.

Nighttime

•A Sign, Signal, Marking or Device that •Is placed or erected by a public body or •Officer having jurisdiction and •Used to Regulate, Warn, or Guide traffic.

Official Traffic Control Device

•Motor Vehicle •other than a motorcycle •transport persons •10 or fewer passengers, including the operator

Passenger car

"_______ ________ _____ _______ ________"- travel between different farms; place of supply or storage and a farm; or owner's farm and place where owner's farm produce is prepared for market or marketed.

Operate temporarily on the highways

•Drives vehicle. •Or has "Physical Control" of a vehicle.

Operator

•Person who has property interest in, or title to a vehicle •Entitled to use and possess a vehicle subject to security interest (making payments on) •Excludes a Lessee and Lien holder whose lease is not intended as security (rents)

Owner

•Stand an occupied or unoccupied vehicle •Other than temporarily •While Loading or Unloading Merchandise or passengers

Park or Parking

•A person on foot

Pedestrian

An injury to any part of the human body that requires treatment

Personal Injury

_________ ________ means an injury to any part of the human body and that requires treatment.

Personal injury

"_______ _______ _____ __________" means a self-propelled vehicle that is equipped with an electric motor or internal combustion engine having a piston displacement of less than 50 cubic centimeters, is designed to propel itself with not more than two wheels in contact with the ground, has a seat or saddle for the use of the operator, is not designed for use on a highway, and is ineligible for a certificate of title under Chapter 501. The term does not include: (A) a moped or motorcycle; (B) an electric bicycle ; (C) a motorized mobility device, as defined by Section 552A.0101 ; (D) an electric personal assistive mobility device, as defined by Section 551.201 ; or (E) a neighborhood electric vehicle, as defined by Section 551.301 .

Pocket bike or minimotorbike

•Vehicle without motive power •Drawn by another vehicle •Attached by pole, reach, boom or other security device •Long or irregularly shaped load capable of sustaining themselves as beams between supporting connections •i.e.: no load, no trailer

Pole Trailer

•"________ _________" means facilitating the movement of •A funeral, •Oversized or hazardous load, or •Other traffic disruption for public safety purposes by a peace officer described by Art. 2.12(1)-(4), (8), and (22) CCP. (1- Sheriffs and their deputies; 2 - Constables and deputy constables; 3 - Marshals, Police Officers and reserve officers of an incorporated city; 4 - Rangers or Officers of D.P.S.; 8 - Officers commissioned under the education code; 22 - Officers commissioned by transit authority.)

Police Escort

•An Officer authorized to direct traffic. •Or arrest persons who violate traffic regulations

Police Officer

•Used by a peace officer for law enforcement that: • •Owned or leased by a government entity • •Is owned or leased by police department of private institution of higher education commissions peace officers, or •Private vehicle owned or leased by peace officer, and •Approved for law enforcement purpose use by head of law enforcement agency they work for •May not be considered authorized emergency vehicle for exemption purposes unless its marked

Police Vehicle

"__________ __________" means an implement, with or without motive power, designed for the removal by a broom, vacuum, or regenerative air system of debris, dirt, gravel, litter, or sand from asphaltic concrete or cement concrete surfaces, including surfaces of parking lots, roads, streets, highways, and warehouse floors. The term includes a vehicle on which the implement is permanently mounted if the vehicle is used only as a power sweeper.

Power sweeper

•Privately owned way or place •Used for vehicular travel •Used by the owner and persons with his permission

Private Road or Driveway

_________ _________ means the entire width between property lines of a road, street, way, thoroughfare, bridge, public beach, or park in this state, not privately owned or controlled, if any part of the road, street, way, thoroughfare, bridge, public beach, or park: •(A) is opened to the public for vehicular traffic; •(B) is used as a public recreational area; or •(C) is under the state's legislative jurisdiction through its police power. (HSC 365.011 (8))

Public highway

_________ _________ means any place to which the public or a substantial group of the public has access and includes, but is not limited to, streets, highways, and the common areas of schools, hospitals, apartment houses, office buildings, transport facilities, and shops.

Public place

TC 545.252 All Vehicles to Stop At Certain Railroad Grade Crossings

Punishable by $50 to $200

TC 545.251 Obedience to Signal Indicating Approach of Train

Punishable by not less than $50 or more than $200

•Other than Business District •Adjacent to and including a highway •At least 300' of frontage is used for residences •OR buildings used for business purposes and residences

Residence District

•To halt an occupied or unoccupied vehicle •Other than temporarily •While receiving or discharging passengers

Stand or Standing

__________ _________ - means using the lap belt and any shoulder straps according to the instructions of the manufacturer

Secured

•Vehicle, with or without motive power •Other than a pole trailer •Drawn by motor vehicle •Transport persons or property •Part of the weight and load DOES rest on or is carried by pulling vehicle

Semi Trailer

________ _______ _________ means bodily injury that creates a substantial risk of death or that causes death, serious permanent disfigurement, or protracted loss or impairment of the function of any bodily member or organ.

Serious bodily injury

"_________ _________" means a highway or traffic maintenance vehicle that: (A) is owned and operated on a highway by or for a governmental agency and performs a function requiring the use of a lamp or illuminating device in accordance with the standards and specifications adopted under Section 547.105 ; or (B) has a public service function, including public utility vehicles, tow trucks, and any vehicle designated as a service vehicle by the Texas Department of Transportation or as an escort flag vehicle under Section 623.099 .

Service vehicle

•Portion of a highway adjacent to the roadway •Designed or used primarily for parking •Different from roadway by design, construction or marking •NOT intended for normal vehicular travel

Shoulder

•Portion of a street •Between a curb or lateral line of a roadway and the adjacent property line •Intended for pedestrian use

Sidewalk

"_______-_______ ________" means: (A) a motor vehicle designed to operate at a maximum speed of 25 miles per hour or less, not including an electric personal assistive mobility device, as defined by Section 551.201 ; or (B) a vehicle, implement of husbandry, or machinery, including road construction machinery, that is towed by: (i) an animal; or (ii) a motor vehicle designed to operate at a maximum speed of 25 miles per hour or less.

Slow-moving vehicle

"______-________-________ ________" means a triangular emblem that conforms to standards and specifications adopted by the director under Section 547.104 .

Slow-moving-vehicle emblem

•Includes only a tire that: -is made of rubber or another resilient material ; and -does not use compressed air to support its load (TC 541.203(4))

Solid Tire

•Vehicle not designed or used primarily to transport persons or property •not ordinarily operated on highway •i.e.: ditch diggers, drillers, road construction equipment, asphalt spreader, bull dozer -Excludes a vehicle designed to transport persons or property that has machinery attached -IE: dump truck, truck mounted transit mixer (cement truck) and cranes

Special Mobile Equipment

_________ ________ - factory built that resemble professional racing motorcycles.

Sport Bikes

•When required, to completely cease movement, and •When prohibited, to halt, including momentarily halting, an occupied or unoccupied vehicle •Unless to avoid conflict with other traffic or to comply with the directions of a police officer or a traffic control sign or signal

Stop or Stopping

_______ ________ - regular motorcycles that range from 250cc to 1100cc engines.

Street Bikes

•means a car, other than a railroad train, used to transport persons or property and operated on rails located primarily within a municipality.

Streetcar

"__________ _________" means a film, material, or device that meets the department's standards for reducing effects of the sun.

Sunscreening device

(a) On the sale or transfer of a vehicle, the registration insignia issued for the vehicle shall be removed. The registration period remaining at the time of sale or transfer expires at the time of sale or transfer.

TC 502.491 TRANSFER OF VEHICLE REGISTRATION

•A person commits an offense if •tampers with, damages, or removes a •barricade, flare pot, sign, flasher signal, or other device warning of •construction, repair, or detour on or adjacent to a highway, •set out by the State, Political Subdivision, a Contractor or a Public Utility.

TC 472.021 Tampering with Warning Devices

•This section does not apply to a person acting within the scope and duty of his employment if the person is: •An officer, agent, independent contractor, employee or trustee of the State or a Political subdivision; a contractor or public utility. •Punishable by a •Fine not less than $25 or more than $1000 •Confinement in a county jail not more than 2 years •Or both fine and confinement

TC 472.021 Tampering with Warning Devices

•Commits an offense if person disobeys the instructions, signals, warnings, or markings of a warning sign. •Does not apply if directed by Police Officer •Or if a person is working on the road, and is required to go around barricade •Fine of $1 to $200 unless workers are present, then fine doubles ($2 to $400) •It is a Class B if they drive around barricade or warning sign placed because water is over any portion of a road, street or highway.

TC 472.022 Obeying Warning Signs

•(a) In this section, "autocycle" means a motor vehicle, other than a tractor, that is: •(1) designed to have when propelled not more than three wheels on the ground; •(2) equipped with a steering wheel; •(3) equipped with seating that does not require the operator to straddle or sit astride the seat; and •(4) manufactured and certified to comply with federal safety requirements for a motorcycle. •(b) For purposes of registering a vehicle under this chapter, an autocycle is considered to be a motorcycle.

TC 502.005 Registration of Autocycle

•No more than 30 days after purchase •Owner must register vehicles every year •If unregistered after beginning of the year then must be registered for the remaining portion of that registration year.

TC 502.040 Registration Required; General Rule

(2) a liability self-insurance or pool coverage document issued by a political subdivision or governmental pool under the authority of Chapter 791, Government Code, Chapter 119, Local Government Code, or other applicable law in at least the minimum amounts required by Chapter 601; (3) a photocopy of a document described by Subdivision (1) or (2); or (4) an electronic submission of a document or the information contained in a document described by Subdivision (1) or (2).

TC 502.046 Evidence of Financial Responsibility

(a) Evidence of financial responsibility as required by Section 601.051 other than for a trailer or semitrailer shall be submitted with the application for registration under Section 502.043 . A county assessor-collector may not register the motor vehicle unless the owner or the owner's representative submits the evidence of financial responsibility.

TC 502.046 Evidence of Financial Responsibility

(b) The county assessor-collector shall examine the evidence of financial responsibility to determine whether it complies with Subsection (c). After examination, the evidence shall be returned unless it is in the form of a photocopy or an electronic submission. (c) In this section, evidence of financial responsibility may be: (1) a document listed under Section 601.053(a) or verified in compliance with Section 601.452;

TC 502.046 Evidence of Financial Responsibility

(d) A personal automobile policy used as evidence of financial responsibility under this section must comply with Section 1952.052 et seq. and Sections 2301.051 through 2301.055, Insurance Code . (e) At the time of registration, the county assessor-collector shall provide to a person registering a motor vehicle a statement that the motor vehicle may not be operated in this state unless: (1) liability insurance coverage for the motor vehicle in at least the minimum amounts required by law remains in effect to insure against potential losses; or (2) the motor vehicle is exempt from the insurance requirement because the person has established financial responsibility in a manner described by Sections 601.051(2) - (5) or is exempt under Section 601.052 . (f) A county assessor-collector is not liable to any person for refusing to register a motor vehicle to which this section applies because of the person's failure to submit evidence of financial responsibility that complies with Subsection (c).

TC 502.046 Evidence of Financial Responsibility

•The department may not issue a license to a person who: •Is under 15 •Is under 18 unless passed Drivers Ed class •Is an alcoholic or drug addict •Has a DL that is revoked, canceled or suspended

TC 521.201 License Ineligibility in General

(g) A county, a county assessor-collector, a deputy county assessor-collector, a person acting for or on behalf of a county or a county assessor-collector, or a person acting on behalf of an owner for purposes of registering a motor vehicle is not liable to any person for registering a motor vehicle under this section. (h) This section does not prevent a person from registering a motor vehicle by mail or through an electronic submission.

TC 502.046 Evidence of Financial Responsibility

(i) To be valid under this section, an electronic submission must be in a format that is: (1) submitted by electronic means, including a telephone, facsimile machine, or computer; (2) approved by the department; and (3) authorized by the commissioners court for use in the county. (j) This section does not apply to a vehicle registered pursuant to Section 501.0234.

TC 502.046 Evidence of Financial Responsibility

(a) On payment of the prescribed fee an applicant for motor vehicle registration shall be issued a registration insignia. (b) On application and payment of the prescribed fee for a renewal of the registration of a vehicle through the period set by rule, the department shall issue a registration insignia for the validation of the license plate or plates to be attached as provided by Subsection (c).

TC 502.059 Issuance of Registration Insignia

(c) Except as provided by Subsection (f), the registration insignia for validation of a license plate shall be attached to the inside of the vehicle's windshield, if the vehicle has a windshield, in the lower left corner in a manner that will not obstruct the vision of the driver. If the vehicle does not have a windshield, the owner, when applying for registration or renewal of registration, shall notify the department, and the department shall issue a distinctive device for attachment to the rear license plate of the vehicle.

TC 502.059 Issuance of Registration Insignia

(d) Department rules may provide for the use of an automated registration process, including: (1) the automated on-site production of registration insignia; and (2) automated on-premises and off-premises self-service registration.

TC 502.059 Issuance of Registration Insignia

(e) Subsection (c) does not apply to: (1) the issuance of specialized license plates as designated by the department, including state official license plates, exempt plates for governmental entities, and temporary registration plates; or (2) the issuance or validation of replacement license plates, except as provided by Chapter 504. (f) The registration insignia shall be attached to the rear license plate of the vehicle, if the vehicle is: (1) a motorcycle; (2) machinery used exclusively to drill water wells or construction machinery for which a distinguishing license plate has been issued under Section 502.146 ; or (3) oil well servicing, oil clean out, or oil well drilling machinery or equipment for which a distinguishing license plate has been issued under Subchapter G, Chapter 623. 1

TC 502.059 Issuance of Registration Insignia

(a) The department may issue a temporary registration permit in lieu of registration for a commercial motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, or motor bus that: (1) is owned by a resident of the United States, Canada, or the United Mexican States; (2) is subject to registration in this state; and (3) is not authorized to travel on a public highway because of the lack of registration in this state or the lack of reciprocity with the state or province in which the vehicle is registered. (b) A permit issued under this section is valid for the period stated on the permit, effective from the date and time shown on the receipt issued as evidence of registration under this section.

TC 502.094 72- or 144-Hour Permits

(c) A person may obtain a permit under this section by: (1) applying to the county assessor-collector or the department; (2) paying a fee of $25 for a 72-hour permit or $50 for a 144-hour permit in the manner prescribed by the department that may include a service charge for a credit card payment or escrow account; (3) furnishing to the county assessor-collector or the department evidence of financial responsibility for the vehicle that complies with Sections 502.046(c) and 601.168(a) ; and (4) submitting a copy of the applicable federal declaration form required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration or its successor in connection with the importation of a motor vehicle or motor vehicle equipment subject to the federal motor vehicle safety, bumper, and theft prevention standards.

TC 502.094 72- or 144-Hour Permits

(d) A county assessor-collector shall report and send a fee collected under this section in the manner provided by Section 502.198 . The board by rule shall prescribe the format and content of a report required by this subsection. (e) A vehicle issued a permit under this section is subject to Subchapters B and F, Chapter 548, 1 unless the vehicle: (1) is registered in another state of the United States, in a province of Canada, or in a state of the United Mexican States; or (2) is mobile drilling or servicing equipment used in the production of gas, crude petroleum, or oil, including a mobile crane or hoisting equipment, mobile lift equipment, forklift, or tug. (f) A commercial motor vehicle, trailer, semitrailer, or motor bus apprehended for violating a registration law of this state: (1) may not be issued a permit under this section; and (2) is immediately subject to registration in this state.

TC 502.094 72- or 144-Hour Permits

(g) A person who operates a commercial motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer with an expired permit issued under this section is considered to be operating an unregistered vehicle subject to each penalty prescribed by law. (h) The department may establish one or more escrow accounts in the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles fund for the prepayment of a 72-hour permit or a 144-hour permit. Any fee established by the department for the administration of this subsection shall be administered as required by an agreement entered into by the department.

TC 502.094 72- or 144-Hour Permits

(a) The department may issue a temporary permit in lieu of registration for a vehicle subject to registration in this state that is not authorized to travel on a public highway because of the lack of registration in this state or the lack of reciprocity with the state or country in which the vehicle is registered. (b) A permit issued under this section is valid for: (1) one trip, as provided by Subsection (c); or (2) 30 days, as provided by Subsection (d).

TC 502.095 One Trip or 30 Day Trip Permits

(c-1) An exemption provided by this section applies to a vehicle owned by a farmers' cooperative society incorporated under Chapter 51, Agriculture Code, or a marketing association organized under Chapter 52, Agriculture Code, and used by members of the society or association for a fee if the vehicle otherwise meets the requirements for the exemption. (d) A vehicle described by Subsection (b) is exempt from the inspection requirements of Subchapters B 1 and F 2, Chapter 548.

TC 502.146 Certain farm vehicles

(c) A one-trip permit is valid for one trip between the points of origin and destination and those intermediate points specified in the application and registration receipt. Unless the vehicle is a bus operating under charter that is not covered by a reciprocity agreement with the state or country in which the bus is registered, a one-trip permit is for the transit of the vehicle only, and the vehicle may not be used for the transportation of any passenger or property. A one-trip permit may not be valid for longer than 15 days from the effective date of registration.

TC 502.095 One Trip or 30 Day Trip Permits

(d) A 30-day permit may be issued only to a passenger vehicle, a private bus, a trailer or semitrailer with a gross weight of not more than 10,000 pounds, a light truck, or a light commercial vehicle with a gross vehicle weight of more than 10,000 pounds that will operate unladen. A person may obtain multiple 30-day permits. The department may issue a single registration receipt to apply to all of the periods for which the vehicle is registered.

TC 502.095 One Trip or 30 Day Trip Permits

(e) A person may obtain a permit under this section by: (1) applying as provided by the department to: (A) the county assessor-collector of the county in which the vehicle will first be operated on a public highway; or (B) the department in Austin or at one of the department's vehicle title and registration regional offices; (2) paying a fee, in the manner prescribed by the department including a registration service charge for a credit card payment or escrow account of: (A) $5 for a one-trip permit; or (B) $25 for each 30-day period; and (3) furnishing evidence of financial responsibility for the vehicle in a form listed under Section 502.046(c).

TC 502.095 One Trip or 30 Day Trip Permits

(f) A registration receipt shall be carried in the vehicle at all times during the period in which it is valid. The temporary tag must contain all pertinent information required by this section and must be displayed in the rear window of the vehicle so that the tag is clearly visible and legible when viewed from the rear of the vehicle. If the vehicle does not have a rear window, the temporary tag must be attached on or carried in the vehicle to allow ready inspection. The registration receipt must be carried in the vehicle at all times during the period in which it is valid.

TC 502.095 One Trip or 30 Day Trip Permits

(g) The department may refuse and may instruct a county assessor-collector to refuse to issue a temporary registration for any vehicle if, in the department's opinion, the vehicle or the owner of the vehicle has been involved in operations that constitute an abuse of the privilege granted by this section. A registration issued after notice to a county assessor-collector under this subsection is void.

TC 502.095 One Trip or 30 Day Trip Permits

(a)May not register an all-terrain vehicle or a recreational off-highway vehicle, with or without design alterations, for operation on a public highway -(b)May register for operation on public beach or highway to maintain public safety and welfare. -(c)Recreational off-highway vehicle registered under (b) may be operated on a public or private beach like a golf cart may be. Operator must hold and have in possession a DL or CDL

TC 502.140 Certain off-highway vehicles

Manufactured housing, as defined by Section 1201.003, Occupations Code, is not a vehicle subject to this chapter.

TC 502.142 Manufactured housing

(b) This section does not prevent: (1) a nonresident owner of a motor vehicle from operating the vehicle in this state for the sole purpose of marketing farm products raised exclusively by the person; or (2) a resident of an adjoining state or country from operating in this state a privately owned and registered vehicle to go to and from the person's place of regular employment and to make trips to purchase merchandise, if the vehicle is not operated for compensation.

TC 502.145 Vehicles Operated by Certain Non-Residents

(c) The privileges provided by this section may be allowed only if, under the laws of the appropriate state or country, similar privileges are granted to vehicles registered under the laws of this state and owned by residents of this state. (d) This section does not affect the right or status of a vehicle owner under any reciprocal agreement between this state and another state or country.

TC 502.145 Vehicles Operated by Certain Non-Residents

A nonresident owner of a privately owned passenger car that is registered in the state or country in which the person resides and that is not operated for compensation may operate the car in this state for the period in which the car's license plates are valid. In this subsection, "nonresident" means a resident of a state or country other than this state whose presence in this state is as a visitor and who does not engage in gainful employment or enter into business or an occupation, except as may otherwise be provided by any reciprocal agreement with another state or country.

TC 502.145 Vehicles Operated by Certain Non-Residents

(a) The department shall issue distinguishing license plates to a vehicle described by Subsection (b) or (c). The fee for the license plates is $5 and shall be deposited to the credit of the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles fund.

TC 502.146 Certain farm vehicles

(b) An owner is not required to register a vehicle that is used only temporarily on the highways if the vehicle is: (1) a farm trailer or farm semitrailer with a gross weight of more than 4,000 pounds but not more than 34,000 pounds that is used exclusively: (A) to transport seasonally harvested agricultural products or livestock from the place of production to the place of processing, market, or storage; (B) to transport farm supplies from the place of loading to the farm; or (C) for the purpose of participating in equine activities or attending livestock shows, as defined by Section 87.001, Civil Practice and Remedies Code ; (2) machinery used exclusively for the purpose of drilling water wells; (3) oil well servicing or drilling machinery and if at the time of obtaining the license plates, the applicant submits proof that the applicant has a permit under Section 623.142 ; or (4) construction machinery.

TC 502.146 Certain farm vehicles

(c) An owner is not required to register a vehicle that is: (1) a farm trailer or farm semitrailer owned by a cotton gin and used exclusively to transport agricultural products without charge from the place of production to the place of processing, market, or storage; (2) a trailer used exclusively to transport fertilizer without charge from a place of supply or storage to a farm; or (3) a trailer used exclusively to transport cottonseed without charge from a place of supply or storage to a farm or place of processing.

TC 502.146 Certain farm vehicles

(e) Except as provided by Subsection (c-1), this section does not apply to a farm trailer or farm semitrailer that: (1) is used for hire; (2) has metal tires operating in contact with the highway; (3) is not equipped with an adequate hitch pinned or locked so that it will remain securely engaged to the towing vehicle while in motion; or (4) is not operated and equipped in compliance with all other law.

TC 502.146 Certain farm vehicles

(f) A vehicle to which this section applies that is operated on a public highway in violation of this section is considered to be operated while unregistered and is immediately subject to the applicable registration fees and penalties prescribed by this chapter. (g) In this section, the gross weight of a trailer or semitrailer is the combined weight of the vehicle and the load carried on the highway.

TC 502.146 Certain farm vehicles

(h) A distinguishing license plate may not be issued or renewed under Subsection (a) to an owner of a vehicle described by Subsection (b)(1) unless the vehicle's owner provides a registration number issued by the comptroller under Section 151.1551, Tax Code , or the vehicle is owned by a farmers' cooperative society incorporated under Chapter 51, Agriculture Code, or a marketing association organized under Chapter 52, Agriculture Code. The comptroller shall allow access to the online system established under Section 151.1551(l), Tax Code , to verify a registration number provided under this subsection.

TC 502.146 Certain farm vehicles

•Offense if after 5th working day the tag is expired on a vehicle being operated on a public highway •May dismissed if: -Remedies the defect no later than 20th working day after the date of the offense or before the defendant's first court appearance date, whichever is later; and -Establishes fee prescribed in 502.176 paid; and -Assess administrative fee no more than $20 when charge is dismissed.

TC 502.407 Operation of Vehicle With Expired License Plate

(a) The registration fee for a commercial motor vehicle as a farm vehicle is 50 percent of the applicable fee under Section 502.252 or 502.253 , as applicable, if the vehicle's owner will use the vehicle for commercial purposes only to transport: (1) the person's own poultry, dairy, livestock, livestock products, timber in its natural state, or farm products to market or another place for sale or processing; (2) laborers from their place of residence to the owner's farm or ranch; or (3) without charge, materials, tools, equipment, or supplies from the place of purchase or storage to the owner's farm or ranch exclusively for the owner's use or for use on the farm or ranch.

TC 502.433 COMMERCIAL FARM MOTOR VEHICLE

(a-1) A commercial motor vehicle registration may not be issued or renewed under this section unless the vehicle's owner provides a registration number issued by the comptroller under Section 151.1551, Tax Code . The comptroller shall allow access to the online system established under Section 151.1551(l), Tax Code , to verify a registration number provided under this subsection. (b) A commercial motor vehicle may be registered under this section despite its use for transporting without charge the owner or a member of the owner's family: (1) to attend church or school; (2) to visit a doctor for medical treatment or supplies; (3) for other necessities of the home or family; or (4) for the purpose of participating in equine activities or attending livestock shows, as defined by Section 87.001, Civil Practice and Remedies Code .

TC 502.433 COMMERCIAL FARM MOTOR VEHICLE

(c) Subsection (b) does not permit the use of a vehicle registered under this section in connection with gainful employment other than farming or ranching. (d) The department shall provide distinguishing license plates for a vehicle registered under this section.

TC 502.433 COMMERCIAL FARM MOTOR VEHICLE

Unless otherwise stated offenses are a Class C Misdemeanor punishable by fine not to exceed $200.

TC 502.471 General Penalty

•Violation to for vehicle to be in class it does not belong in. •Fine not to exceed $200

TC 502.472 Operation of Vehicle under Improper Registration

•Violation not to properly display insignia showing period registered for •Fine not to exceed $200 •Court may dismiss charge if defendant shows vehicle was issued insignia that was attached; and •Pays $10 administrative fee

TC 502.473 Operation of Vehicle without Registration insignia

Offense if operates vehicle for which one-trip permit is required without the registration receipt and properly displayed temporary tag.

TC 502.474 Operation of one-trip permit vehicle

Offense if attaches to or displays a registration insignia that: •Assigned to a different vehicle; •Assigned under any other vehicle law other than department •Assigned registration period other then current •Is fictitious •Punishable by fine up to $200 •In trial if shown knowingly altered or made illegible class B misdemeanor •If fictitious class B misdemeanor

TC 502.475 Wrong, Fictitious, Altered, or Obscured Insignia

(a) A person commits an offense if the person: (1) manufactures, sells, or possesses a registration insignia deceptively similar to the registration insignia of the department; or (2) makes a copy or likeness of an insignia deceptively similar to the registration insignia of the department with intent to sell the copy or likeness.

TC 502.4755 DECEPTIVELY SIMILAR INSIGNIA

(b) For the purposes of this section, an insignia is deceptively similar to the registration insignia of the department if the insignia is not prescribed by the department but a reasonable person would presume that it was prescribed by the department. (c) A district or county court, on application of the attorney general or of the district attorney or prosecuting attorney performing the duties of the district attorney for the district in which the court is located, may enjoin a violation or threatened violation of this section on a showing that a violation has occurred or is likely to occur.

TC 502.4755 DECEPTIVELY SIMILAR INSIGNIA

(d) It is an affirmative defense to a prosecution under this section that the insignia was produced pursuant to a licensing agreement with the department. (e) An offense under this section is: (1) a felony of the third degree if the person manufactures or sells a deceptively similar registration insignia; or (2) a Class C misdemeanor if the person possesses a deceptively similar registration insignia, except that the offense is a Class B misdemeanor if the person has previously been convicted of an offense under this subdivision.

TC 502.4755 DECEPTIVELY SIMILAR INSIGNIA

(b) On a sale or transfer of a vehicle in which neither party holds a general distinguishing number issued under Chapter 503, the part of the registration period remaining at the time of the sale or transfer shall continue with the vehicle being sold or transferred and does not transfer with the license plates or registration validation insignia. To continue the remainder of the registration period, the purchaser or transferee must file the documents required under Section 501.145 .

TC 502.491 TRANSFER OF VEHICLE REGISTRATION

(c) On the sale or transfer of a vehicle to a dealer, as defined by Section 503.001 , who holds a general distinguishing number issued under Chapter 503, the registration period remaining at the time of the sale or transfer expires at the time of the sale or transfer. On the sale of a used vehicle by a dealer, the dealer shall issue to the buyer new registration documents for an entire registration year. (d) If the transferor has paid for more than one year of registration, the department may credit the transferor for any time remaining on the registration in annual increments.

TC 502.491 TRANSFER OF VEHICLE REGISTRATION

(a) A purchaser may obtain from the department a temporary transit permit to operate a motor vehicle: (1) that is subject to registration in this state; (2) from which the license plates and the registration insignia have been removed as authorized by Section 502.491 or 504.901 ; and (3) that is not authorized to travel on a public roadway because the required license plates and the registration insignia are not attached to the vehicle.

TC 502.492 Temporary Transit Permit for a Vehicle Purchased

(b) The department may issue the permit in accordance with this section. (c) A permit issued under this section is valid for one trip between the point of origin and the destination and those intermediate points specified in the permit. (d) A permit issued under this section may not be valid for longer than a five-day period. (e) A person may obtain a permit under this section by applying, as provided by the department, to the department. Application may be made using the department's Internet website.

TC 502.492 Temporary Transit Permit for a Vehicle Purchased

(f) A person is eligible to receive only one permit under this section for a motor vehicle. (g) A permit receipt issued under this section must be in a manner provided by the department. The receipt must contain the information required by this section and shall be carried in the vehicle at all times during which it is valid. (h) The department may refuse to issue a permit under this section for any vehicle if in the department's opinion the applicant has been involved in operations that constitute an abuse of the privilege granted under this section.

TC 502.492 Temporary Transit Permit for a Vehicle Purchased

(a) Instead of registering under Chapter 502 a vehicle that the dealer owns, operates, or permits to be operated on a public street or highway, the dealer may apply for, receive, and attach metal dealer's license plates to the vehicle if it is the type of vehicle: (1) that the dealer sells; and (2) for which the dealer has been issued a general distinguishing number. (b) The board may adopt rules regulating the issuance and use of a license plate issued pursuant to the terms of this section.

TC 503.061 Dealer's License Plates

•Used for road tests or demonstrations to buyer. •Move from one lot to another. •Move to repair shop. •Bring from state line to car lot. •Move between dealers. •Move from place of purchase to place of business. •Can be used for charitable organizations. •Vehicle does not have to be inspected. •A customer may operate a vehicle temporarily while the customer's vehicle is being repaired. •The black dealer tag may be assigned to a particular salesman or employee for his use in all inventory vehicles, or •It may be assigned to a particular vehicle in the dealer's inventory. •The dealer's records should reflect who, or what vehicle had this tag on any particular date.

TC 503.062 Dealer's Temporary Cardboard Tags ("Black Dealer Tags")

•Department shall develop and maintain a secure, real-time database of information on vehicles to which dealer's and converter's have affixed temporary tags. •Must allow info of vehicle specific number assigned and displayed on tag •Dealer's or Converter's must enter into the database through internet information on the vehicle and about the dealer or converter before it can be displayed on vehicle.

TC 503.0626 Dealer's and Converter's Temporary Tag Database

•For purchase of unregistered vehicle •Valid until the earlier of: -The date on which vehicle is registered; or -The 60th day after the date of purchase •The dealer: -Must have information tag filled out in ink, and -is responsible for displaying tag •Dealer responsible for each tag they get •Department shall specify the specifications, color, and form of a buyer's tag; and •Procedures to get tags on line and how to display

TC 503.063 Buyer's Temporary Tags

•Department shall develop and maintain a secure, real-time database of information on persons to whom temporary buyer's tags are issued, used the same as registration. •Use vehicle specific number to obtain info about person who tag was issued to. •Dealer's must enter into the database through internet information on the buyer of vehicle and generate a vehicle specific number for the tag before it can be displayed on vehicle. •Dealer shall obtain 24hr internet access at its place of business. No internet, do form.

TC 503.0631 Buyer's Temporary Tag Database

(a) Dealer or employee of a dealer may not use dealer's temporary tag as authorization to operate a vehicle for the dealer's or the employee's personal use. (b) May not use metal dealer's license plate or dealer's temporary tag on: -a service or work vehicle; or -a commercial vehicle that is carrying a load.

TC 503.068 Limitation on use of dealer's license plates and tags

(a) A dealer who purchases a vehicle that displays an out-of-state license plate must remove the plate within a reasonable time. (b) A dealer who purchases a vehicle for resale may not operate the vehicle on a public street or highway in this state while the vehicle displays an out-of-state license plate.

TC 503.070 Removal of out-of-state License Plates

•Violation of this chapter punishable by fine •Not less than $50 nor more than $5000 •If proven violation committed willfully or with conscious indifference to the law, then court may triple fine (forged or altered) •503.067(b) or (c) class C misdemeanor •503.067(d) class A misdemeanor •503.067(a) state jail felony; and •503.067(b), (c), or (d) state jail felony if person who committed offense conspired to engage in organized criminal activity.

TC 503.094 Criminal Penalty

(a) On the sale or transfer of a motor vehicle to a dealer who holds a general distinguishing number issued under Chapter 503, the dealer shall remove each license plate issued for the motor vehicle. A person may use the license plates removed from a motor vehicle on a new motor vehicle purchased from a dealer after the person obtains the department's approval of a title and registration application.

TC 504.901 Transfer and Removal of License Plates

(b) On the sale or transfer of a motor vehicle to a person who does not hold a general distinguishing number issued under Chapter 503, the seller may remove each license plate issued for the motor vehicle. The license plates may be transferred to another vehicle titled in the seller's name if the seller obtains: (1) the department's approval of an application to transfer the license plates; and (2) a new registration insignia for the motor vehicle.

TC 504.901 Transfer and Removal of License Plates

(c) A license plate removed from a motor vehicle that is not transferred to another motor vehicle must be disposed of in a manner specified by the department. (d) To be eligible for transfer, license plates must be appropriate for the class of vehicle to which the plates are being transferred. (e) This section applies only to: (1) a passenger vehicle with a gross weight of 6,000 pounds or less; and (2) a light truck with a gross weight of 10,000 pounds or less.

TC 504.901 Transfer and Removal of License Plates

(a) A person who violates Section 504.502 commits an offense. An offense under this section is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not less than $5 or more than $200. •(b) It is an affirmative defense to prosecution under this section that at the time of the offense the vehicle was en route to or from a location for the purpose of routine maintenance of the vehicle.

TC 504.941 Antique Vehicles

•Must display 2 license plate issued to each vehicle (1 front & 1 rear) •Only one required, to be displayed on the rear of; road tractor, motorcycle, and trailers •Does not apply to dealer plates •Fine not to exceed $200 •Court may dismiss if defendant remedies defect before first court appearance; and •Pays $10 administrative fee

TC 504.943 Operation of Vehicle Without License Plate

•Operates or allows another to operate a vehicle with a license plate from another vehicle •Fine not to exceed $200

TC 504.944 Operation of Vehicle With Wrong License Plate

•Does not apply to: •Trailer hitch installed normal/customary manner; •Transponder attached as required; •Wheelchair lift or wheel chair carrier attached normal/customary manner; •Trailer being towed; or •Bicycle or motorcycle rack attached normal/customary manner •Court may dismiss if defendant remedies defect before first court appearance; and •Pays $10 administrative fee •If fictitious its class B misdemeanor

TC 504.945 Wrong, Fictitious, Altered, or Obscured License Plate

•Violation to attach or display: •Issued for different motor vehicle; •Issued under any other vehicle law other than department •Assigned registration period other then current •Is fictitious •Blurring or reflective matter significantly impairs readability of name of state or letters or numbers •Has attached illuminated device or sticker, decal, emblem, or other insignia not authorized and interferes with readability •Has coating, covering, protective substance, or other material that: -Distorts angular visibility or detectability; -Alters or obscures one-half or more or more of name of state; -Alters or obscures letters or numbers of plate or color of plate •Punishable by fine up to $200 •In trial if shown knowingly altered or made illegible class B misdemeanor

TC 504.945 Wrong, Fictitious, Altered, or Obscured License Plate

(a) A person commits an offense if the person: (1) manufactures, sells, or possesses a license plate deceptively similar to a license plate issued by the department; or (2) makes a copy or likeness of a license plate deceptively similar to a license plate issued by the department with intent to sell the copy or likeness. (b) For the purposes of this section, a license plate is deceptively similar to a license plate issued by the department if it is not prescribed by the department but a reasonable person would presume that it was prescribed by the department. (c) A district or county court, on application of the attorney general or of the district attorney or prosecuting attorney performing the duties of the district attorney for the district in which the court is located, may enjoin a violation or threatened violation of this section on a showing that a violation has occurred or is likely to occur.

TC 504.946 Deceptively Similar License Plates

(d) It is an affirmative defense to a prosecution under this section that the license plate was produced pursuant to a licensing agreement with the department. (e) An offense under this section is: (1) a felony of the third degree if the person manufactures or sells a deceptively similar license plate; or (2) a Class C misdemeanor if the person possesses a deceptively similar license plate, except that the offense is a Class B misdemeanor if the person has previously been convicted of an offense under this subdivision.

TC 504.946 Deceptively Similar License Plates

(b) A person commits an offense if the person with criminal negligence purchases or possesses a license plate flipper. An offense under this subsection is a Class B misdemeanor. (c) A person commits an offense if the person with criminal negligence manufactures, sells, offers to sell, or otherwise distributes a license plate flipper. An offense under this subsection is a Class A misdemeanor.

TC 504.9465 License Plate Flipper

•A person required to hold a drivers license shall: •Have DL in possession while operating motor vehicle for that type of vehicle, and •Display license on demand of a magistrate, court officer or peace officer •Peace officer may stop & detain a person operating a motor vehicle to determine if the person has a DL as required

TC 521.025 License to Be Carried and Exhibited on Demand

•License will designate "Provisional" if under 18; and •"Under 21" to a person under the age of 21 •Oriented different to distinguish from a person who is 21 years of age or older

TC 521.123 Designator on License Issued to Person Under 21 Years of Age

•US Post Office Box address or private mailbox address •Unless exception exists under state or federal law •Applicant may receive DL or ID at a PO Box if they have provided physical address to department where applicant resides

TC 521.1427 PO Box not valid as Address

In this section, "school" means private or public school, day care center, preschool, and a church if it provides formal education

TC 547.005 Offense Relating to Violation of Special-Use Provisions

Permit allows operation on a highway if; •Permit is in holders possession and; •Accompanied by a person licensed for that type of vehicle (LOFS 21 or older) with one year driving experience •LOFS can not •Sleep •Be intoxicated •Engaged in activity that prevents the person from observing and responding to the actions of the operator

TC 521.222 Learner License

•May be issued a learner license including Class A or B; if •15 or older but under 18 •Has passed classroom phase of drivers ed course •Must have diploma or be enrolled in school •Must pass written drivers test

TC 521.222 Learner License

•May receive a hardship license if: •15 or older and passed Drivers Ed course; and pass examination required (TC 521.161) •If failure to issue the license, will result in unusual economic hardship for the family of the applicant; necessary because of family illness; enrolled in vocational education program

TC 521.223 Hardship License

•Must be at least 14 to enroll in Drivers Ed •If denied this type of license applicant may appeal to the county court •Department shall suspend license if convicted of 2 or more moving violations in 12 month period

TC 521.223 Hardship License

•In this section, "motorcycle" includes a motor driven cycle •Restriction to operate a motorcycle not more than 250 cc's •If 15 but under 18 •Passed motorcycle training course •Must have parent or guardian permission •16th birthday restriction is lifted

TC 521.224 Restricted Class M License

•Must have a license •15 or older •Written exam required only •Restricted Class M applies also to a moped

TC 521.225 Moped License

A license is automatically suspended on conviction of an offense under TC 545.420(a) - Racing on highway. •Suspension is for one year. •May be eligible for an occupational license •if under 18, then only for to and from school.

TC 521.350 Suspension for Offense Relating to Racing of Motor Vehicle on Public Highway or Street

•If convicted of D.W.L.S. during the period of racing suspension: •the Department shall revoke the person's license until the first anniversary of the date of conviction and may NOT reinstate the license or issue a new license before that date. •This is in addition to the penalties for D.W.L.S.

TC 521.350 Suspension for Offense Relating to Racing of Motor Vehicle on Public Highway or Street

•Shall be required by the court where convicted to perform at least 10 hours of community service. •If they don't have a driver's license, then the court shall issue an order prohibiting the Department from issuing a license until the community service is completed. •If community service is finished before the end of the D.L. suspension, they may apply to the Department for reinstatement.

TC 521.350 Suspension for Offense Relating to Racing of Motor Vehicle on Public Highway or Street

It is an affirmative defense to prosecution that the person did not receive actual notice of a cancellation, suspension, revocation, or prohibition order relating to the person's DL, except for suspensions as a result of conviction of: •Criminal negligent homicide •Evading arrest or detention •DWI •DWI with child passenger •Intoxication Assault •Intoxication Manslaughter •Offense punishable as a felony under the motor vehicle laws of this state •Accident Involving Personal Injury or Death (FSRA) •Offense under Section 521.451 or 541.453 (Fake ID's, Lie on DL Application, etc.) •Manslaughter, if Motor Vehicle used

TC 521.457 Driving While License Invalid

•A person commits an offense if is subject of an order issued under any law of this state that prohibits the person from obtaining a DL and the person operates a motor vehicle on highway

TC 521.457 Driving While License Invalid

•A person commits an offense if operates a motor vehicle on a highway: •DL has been canceled •During period DL has been suspended or revoked under any law of this state •While DL is expired, if expired during a period of suspension, or •After renewal of DL has been denied under any law of this state

TC 521.457 Driving While License Invalid

CDL section does not apply to: •Farm vehicle used to transport agricultural products, farm machinery or farm supplies to or from a farm; or •With in 150 miles of the farm •Fire fighting or emergency vehicles •Military vehicles for military purposes by military personnel

TC 522.004 Applicability

CDL section does not apply to: •RV's, for personal use •includes a travel trailer, camping trailer, truck camper, and motor home •Airport vehicles in the airport; and •Vehicle used exclusively to transport seed cotton modules or cotton burrs

TC 522.004 Applicability

Defense to prosecution if: •Person produces in court a valid CDL or CDL Learner's License •Admin Fee of $10

TC 522.011 License or Permit Required; Offense

•May not operate a commercial vehicle unless: •CDL is in possession •Not disqualified or subject to an out-of-service order, or •CDL Permit and driver's license, and •accompanied CDL holder in front seat with appropriate endorsements necessary for the class of vehicle being driven •May not be subject to an out of service order or disqualified •Has a CDL or CDL Learner's Permit from another state or foreign jurisdiction with minimum federal standards for CDL

TC 522.011 License or Permit Required; Offense

•The Department may issue a Class A, B, or C Commercial Drivers License or Commercial Learners Permit

TC 522.041 Classification

•Provisions of this subtitle apply to all Government vehicles except as provided by this subtitle for an Authorized Emergency Vehicle.

TC 542.002 Government Vehicles

•Property owner can regulate or prohibit the use of his property by the public for vehicular travel.

TC 542.005 Rules on Private Property

•Device designed for transportation of persons with physical disabilities that: •Has three or more wheels; •Is propelled by battery-powered motor; •Has not more than one forward gear; and •Is not capable of speeds exceeding eight miles per hour •For this subtitle a person operating nonmotorized wheelchair or motorized mobility device is considered a pedestrian

TC 542.009 Mobility Devices

May use slow moving vehicle emblem on slow moving vehicle only - can not be used on a stationary object.

TC 547.005 Offense Relating to Violation of Special-Use Provisions

An officer shall (only) issue a citation if: •Violation is speeding or a violation of the open container law, and •The person gives a written promise to appear in court. •(TC 703 allows for a non-resident to be required to post bond, or be taken into custody if bond cannot be posted)

TC 543.004 Notice to Appear Required: Certain Offenses

•A person must sign the citation to be released. •Technically all persons stopped on traffic are under arrest until they sign the citation. •The officer shall then promptly release the person from custody.

TC 543.005 Promise to Appear; Release

•The time specified in the notice to appear must be at least 10 days after the date of arrest unless the person demands an earlier hearing. •The place specified in the notice to appear must be before a magistrate having jurisdiction of the offense in the city or county of the offense.

TC 543.006 Time and Place of Appearance

•Operator of a commercial vehicle must receive an instructional sheet explaining options for the citation.

TC 543.007 Notice to Appear: Commercial Vehicle or License

•A violation by an officer of a provision of Sections 543.003 - 543.007 is misconduct in office and the officer is subject to removal from his position. •i.e. - if violator demands to be taken before a magistrate then you must take them.

TC 543.008 Violation by Officer

•A person may comply with a written promise to appear in court by an appearance by counsel. •A person who wilfully fails to appear, commits a misdemeanor regardless of the disposition of the original charge (FTA).

TC 543.009 Compliance With or Violation of Promise to Appear

•The complaint and the summons or notice to appear on a charge of speeding under this subtitle must specify: •The maximum or minimum speed limit applicable in the district or at the location, and •The speed at which the defendant is alleged to have driven.

TC 543.010 Specifications of Speeding Charge

The Texas Transportation Commission shall adopt a manual and specifications for a uniform system of traffic-control devices consistent with this chapter that correlates with and to the extent possible conforms to the system approved by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.

TC 544.001 Adoption of Sign Manual for State Highways

•Operator of a vehicle or streetcar shall comply with official traffic control device, unless, •Otherwise directed by a Police Officer or while operating an Authorized Emergency Vehicle •Device must be in a position to be legible to an ordinarily observant person

TC 544.004 Compliance with Traffic Control Device

A person may not, or attempt to, alter, injure, knock down, or remove: •An official traffic control device or railroad sign or signal; •An inscription, shield, or insignia on an official traffic control device or railroad sign or signal; or •Another part of an official traffic control device or railroad sign or signal

TC 544.005 Interference with a Traffic Control Device or Railroad Sign or Signal

A person may not place, maintain, or display on or in view of a highway an unauthorized sign, signal, marking or device that: •Imitates or resembles an official traffic control device or RR sign or signal; •Attempts to direct the movement of traffic; or •Hides from view or hinders the effectiveness of an official traffic control device or RR sign or signal

TC 544.006 Display of Unauthorized Signs, Signals or Markings

•No commercial advertising on traffic sign or signal on a highway •No flashing light or flashing electric sign within 1000 feet of an intersection unless issued a permit by Texas Transportation Commission

TC 544.006 Display of Unauthorized Signs, Signals or Markings

•This section does not prohibit a person from placing on private property adjacent to a highway a sign that gives useful directional information that cannot be mistaken for an official sign •A sign, signal, light, or marking prohibited, is a public nuisance. May be removed without notice.

TC 544.006 Display of Unauthorized Signs, Signals or Markings

•A vehicle facing a traffic control signal that does not display an indication in any of the signal heads, shall stop as if the intersection had a stop sign, except •Freeway entrance ramp control signal or •Pedestrian hybrid beacon

TC 544.007 Traffic-Control Signals in General

•Steady Red lights means, operator shall stop 1. At a CLEARLY MARKED STOP LINE 2. If none, BEFORE the CROSSWALK on the near side of the intersection •After stopping and yielding when required an operator may: 1. Turn Right unless prohibited 2. Turn Left if both streets are One- Way Unless prohibited •Steady Yellow means warning the Red light is about to be given.

TC 544.007 Traffic-Control Signals in General

•Texas Transportation Commission, Municipal Authority or Commissioners Court may prohibit turning on red at an intersection by erecting signs •A required stop shall be made at a Sign or Marking on the pavement indicating where the stop is to be made. In the absence of a marking or sign the stop shall be made at the signal. •This section applies to street cars also

TC 544.007 Traffic-Control Signals in General

•Traffic Control Signals may display only Green, Yellow or Red lights •Green light means go straight or turn unless prohibited by sign. Must yield to pedestrians and other cars as required. •Green arrow means to proceed only in the direction permitted by the arrow, must still yield to pedestrian or other traffic lawfully in crosswalk or intersection.

TC 544.007 Traffic-Control Signals in General

•Facing flashing Red must stop at clearly marked stop Line •If no stop line then before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection. •If no crosswalk then at a point nearest the intersecting roadway to view approaching traffic •Right to proceed is same as stop sign •Flashing Yellow means proceed with caution •This section does not apply at Railroad Grade crossings

TC 544.008 Flashing Signals

•If control signal is place over a lane then an operator may travel •In a lane with a Green signal but may •Not enter or travel in a lane were a Red signal is shown.

TC 544.009 Lane-Direction Control Signals

•Any vehicle that is required by this section to stop and yield the right of way, that is involved in an accident is presumed not to have yielded the right of way.

TC 545.151 Vehicle Approaching or Entering Intersection

•Unless directed to proceed by Police Officer or other traffic control signal an operator approaching a stop sign must •stop before crosswalk •If no crosswalk at a clearly marked stop line •If no stop line then at a place nearest the intersecting roadway to view approaching traffic •If safety requires must stop at yield sign by these rules also

TC 544.010 Stop Signs and Yield Signs

•On A highway having more than one lane with vehicles traveling in the same direction •Dept. of Transportation or Local Authority •Can post sign which must read "left lane for passing only"

TC 544.011 Lane Use Signs

In this chapter, a reference to an operator includes a reference to the vehicle operated by the operator if the reference imposes a duty or provides a limitation on the movement or other operation of that vehicle.

TC 545.002 OPERATOR

Vehicle moving more slowly than normal speed of other vehicles shall drive in the right hand lane available to vehicles, or as close as practicable to right hand curb or edge of roadway, unless: •Passing another vehicle •Preparing to turn left at an intersection or into a private road or driveway

TC 545.051 Driving on Right Side of Roadway

•Must drive on right half of roadway if wide enough unless •passing another vehicle •an obstruction necessitates moving left of center, and operator yields right-of-way to vehicle that: •is moving in proper direction on the unobstructed portion of roadway; and •is an immediate hazard •or roadway is marked for three lanes •or roadway is one-way

TC 545.051 Driving on Right Side of Roadway

•On roadway with four or more lanes for moving vehicles, and providing for two way movement of vehicles, may not drive left of center of roadway except: •an obstruction necessitates moving the vehicle left of the center of the roadway •to turn left into an alley private rd, or driveway •or when authorized by official traffic control device permitting use of another lane left of center of the roadway (i.e. reversible lanes)

TC 545.051 Driving on Right Side of Roadway

•Move to or remain to the right •Narrow roads must give half of the main traveled portion of the roadway. •If too narrow then as much roadway as possible.

TC 545.052 Driving Past Vehicle Moving in Opposite Direction

•Shall pass to the left at a safe distance •May not move back until safely clear of the passed vehicle •Vehicle being passed shall upon audible signal move or remain to the right when being passed •Vehicle being passed may not accelerate while being passed

TC 545.053 Passing to The Left; Return; Being Passed

•May not drive left of center to pass unless •It is authorized by this subtitle •Left side is clearly visible and free of approaching traffic for a distance sufficient to pass without interfering with the passed vehicle or approaching vehicles •Must return to right within 200' of approaching vehicle or as soon as practicable

TC 545.054 Passing to The Left: Safe Distance

•Shall obey directions of Sign or Marking if it is clearly visible to an ordinarily observant person. •May not drive on the left in a No-Passing Zone except to make a left turn. •No-Passing Zones must be marked by sign or marking by State or Local Authorities

TC 545.055 Passing to The Left: Passing Zones

•Approaching within 100' of a Bridge, Viaduct or Tunnel or •Awaiting access to a Ferry operated by Texas Transportation Commission •This section does not apply • to a One-Way roadway, or •Turning left into or from an alley or private road or drive •A No-Passing Zone sign shall be posted along the approach to a Ferry

TC 545.056 Driving to Left of Center of Roadway: Limitations Other Than Passing.

•May not drive left of center if •Approaching within 100' of intersection or R/R grade crossing in a municipality •Approaching within 100' of intersection or R/R grade crossing outside a municipality and the intersection or R/R crossing is marked in accordance with section 545.055

TC 545.056 Driving to Left of Center of Roadway: Limitations Other Than Passing.

•May pass to the right only if conditions permit safely passing to the right AND •The vehicle being passed is making or about to make a left turn AND •The operator is •on a highway having unobstructed pavement, and wide enough for two or more lines of moving vehicles in each direction OR •On a One Way street (wide enough) •May not pass to the right by leaving the roadway except under section 545.058

TC 545.057 Passing to The Right

•An operator may drive on the improved shoulder to the LEFT of the roadway of a divided or limited-access or controlled-access highway if done safely, but ONLY •To slow or stop when the vehicle is disabled and traffic or other circumstances prohibit the safe movement of the vehicle to the right shoulder, or •As permitted or required by an official traffic control device, or •To avoid a collision •This section does not apply to an Authorized Emergency Vehicle responding to a call or, a police patrol or a bicycle. •

TC 545.058 Driving on Improved Shoulder

•May drive on an improved shoulder to the RIGHT of the roadway if it is necessary and may be done safely, but ONLY •To stop, stand or park •To accelerate before entering the roadway •To decelerate before turning right •To pass a vehicle that is slowing or stopped on the roadway, disabled or preparing to turn left •To allow a faster vehicle to pass •As permitted or required by an Official Traffic Control Device or •To avoid a collision

TC 545.058 Driving on Improved Shoulder

•Signs must be posted designating One-Way streets •Operators may only drive in direction indicated •May drive only to the right of a Traffic Island (Traffic Circle)

TC 545.059 One-Way Roadways and Rotary Traffic Islands

•If roadway is divided into three lanes and provides for two-way traffic an operator may not drive in the center lane except •If passing another vehicle and the center lane is clear, or •To prepare to make a left turn, or •Where center lane is designated to move in that direction (reversible lanes)

TC 545.060 Driving on Roadway Laned for Traffic

•Official traffic-control devices prohibiting the changing of lanes on sections of roadway may be installed.

TC 545.060 Driving on Roadway Laned for Traffic

•May be equipped with not more than 2 spotlamps •The high-intensity portion of the beam may not strike the windshield, window, mirror, or occupant of another vehicle in use.

TC 547.327 Spotlamps Permitted

•Without regard to the center of the roadway an Official Traffic Control Device may be erected directing slow-moving traffic to use a designated lane or designating lanes to be used by traffic moving in a particular direction.

TC 545.060 Driving on Roadway Laned for Traffic

•On a roadway divided into three or more lanes and providing for one-way movement of traffic, an operator entering a lane from a lane to the right shall yield to a vehicle entering the same lane from the left •Yield LEFT when changing lanes

TC 545.061 Driving on Multiple-Lane Roadway

An operator of a vehicle equipped with a connected braking system that is following another vehicle equipped with that system may be assisted by the system to maintain an assured clear distance or sufficient space as required by this section.

TC 545.062 Following Distance

•An operator shall: •Maintain an assured clear distance between two vehicles •Considering speed, traffic, and conditions of the highway so that •The operator can stop without a collision or veering into another vehicle, object, or person on or near the highway

TC 545.062 Following Distance

•Vehicles in a caravan shall leave space between the vehicles so that a vehicle passing can safely enter the space •Does not apply to a funeral procession

TC 545.062 Following Distance

•a vehicle drawing another vehicle who is following a vehicle drawing another vehicle shall leave space between the vehicles so that a vehicle passing can safely enter the space

TC 545.062 Following Distance

On divided roadway an operator must drive on the right side of the divider unless: •Directed or permitted by an Official Traffic Control Device or Police Officer •An operator may not drive over, across, or in a dividing space, physical barrier or section constructed to impede traffic except •Through an opening or •At a crossover or intersection established by public authority.

TC 545.063 Driving on Divided Highway

An operator may not drive on or from a freeway except at an entrance or exit ramp.

TC 545.064 Restricted Access

•Commission, Department, or Municipality •May restrict, by class of vehicle, through traffic to two or more designated lanes of highway (i.e. No Trucks left lane) •which has a minimum of three travel lanes, excluding access or frontage roads or part of single roadway separated by upper and lower deck

TC 545.0651 Restriction on Use of Highway

(b) An operator on a highway having separate roadways is not required to stop: (1) for a school bus that is on a different roadway; or (2) if on a controlled-access highway, for a school bus that is stopped: (A) in a loading zone that is a part of or adjacent to the highway; and (B) where pedestrians are not permitted to cross the roadway.

TC 545.066 Passing a School Bus; Offense

•Any operator on a highway approaching a school bus stopped on the highway to receive or discharge a student •Shall stop before reaching the school bus when visual signal is activated •May not proceed until: •School bus resumes motion or •Driver motions to proceed or •Visual signal is no longer activated

TC 545.066 Passing a School Bus; Offense

To make a left turn at an intersection an operator shall •Approach in the extreme left-hand lane lawfully available to them and •After entering the intersection, turn left, leaving the intersection so as to arrive in a lane lawfully available to them

TC 545.101 Turning at Intersections

To make a right turn at an intersection an operator shall make •Both the approach and the turn as close as practicable to the right hand curb or edge of the roadway

TC 545.101 Turning at Intersections

•On a two way street a vehicle turning left shall, if possible, turn in the portion of the intersection to the left of the center of the intersection. •On a One-Way street a vehicle turning left shall approach and turn as closely as practicable to the left hand curb. •This section does not apply if an Official Traffic Control Device directs otherwise.

TC 545.101 Turning at Intersections

An operator may not u-turn when approaching a curve or the crest of a grade if the vehicle is not visible to the operator of another vehicle approaching from either direction within 500 feet.

TC 545.102 Turning on Curve or Crest of Grade

An operator may not turn the vehicle to enter a private road or driveway, otherwise turn the vehicle from a direct course, or move right or left on a roadway unless movement can be made safely.

TC 545.103 Safely Turning

•Must signal intention to turn, change lanes or start from a parked position •Must signal for not less than 100' prior to turning •May not use signals as a "go ahead to pass" for another vehicle •May not leave a turn signal on while parked or disabled

TC 545.104 Signaling Turns; Use of Turn Signals

An operator may not stop or suddenly decrease the speed of the vehicle without first giving a stop signal as provided by this subchapter to the operator of a vehicle immediately to the rear when there is an opportunity to give the signal..

TC 545.105 Signaling Stops

•An operator must signal turns and stops by hand and arm or lighted signal lamps unless •Distance from the center of the top of the steering column to the left outside limit of the body, cab or load is more than 2' or •The distance from the top center of the steering column to the rear limit of the vehicle or load or combo is more than 14' •Then the vehicle shall be equipped with signal lamps ( no hand signals)

TC 545.106 Signals by Hand and Arm or by Signal Lamp

•Must be given by the operator •Left turn - hand and arm extended horizontally (straight out) •Right turn - hand and arm extended upward from the elbow (bicycle can use right arm straight out) •Stop or decrease speed - hand and arm downward from the elbow.

TC 545.107 Method of Giving Hand and Arm Signals

•An operator on a street that ends at an intersection that is not controlled must stop and yield to a vehicle on the through street in order to avoid a collision. •May proceed only when clear.

TC 545.151 Vehicle Approaching or Entering Intersection

•An operator on an unpaved road shall stop and yield to an operator on a paved road, to avoid a collision. •May proceed when clear.

TC 545.151 Vehicle Approaching or Entering Intersection

•An operator approaching an intersection shall stop, yield and grant immediate use of the intersection •in obedience to an Official Traffic Control Device, or •If signal is not working, and •After stopping, may proceed when safe and without interfering or colliding with other traffic.

TC 545.151 Vehicle Approaching or Entering Intersection

•An operator on a single-lane or two-lane street or roadway who approaches an intersection that is NOT controlled by an Official Traffic Control Device, and •Is located on a divided highway or street or roadway divided into three or more marked lanes shall •Stop, yield and grant immediate use of the intersection to a vehicle that is already in the intersection and or so close as to be a hazard (Yield to avoid a wreck), and •May proceed when safe without interfering or colliding with traffic

TC 545.151 Vehicle Approaching or Entering Intersection

•Turning left an operator shall yield the right of way to a vehicle traveling in the opposite direction that is in the intersection or so close as to be an immediate hazard. •i.e. Yield to any vehicle lawfully on their part of the roadway. •Must not cause the other vehicle to change its course of action to avoid a collision

TC 545.152 Vehicle Turning Left

An operator approaching a yield sign shall: •slow to a speed that is reasonable under the existing conditions and •yield to any vehicle in the intersection or approaching so close as to be an immediate hazard.

TC 545.153 Vehicle Entering Stop or Yield Intersection

•If an operator is required to yield and is involved in an accident it is presumed that they failed to stop and yield the right of way.

TC 545.153 Vehicle Entering Stop or Yield Intersection

•Preferential right of way at an intersection may be indicated by a stop or yield sign as authorized by section 544.003 •Unless directed to proceed by a Police Officer or Official Traffic Device, an operator approaching a stop sign shall: •after stopping, yield to any vehicle in the intersection or so close as to be an immediate hazard.

TC 545.153 Vehicle Entering Stop or Yield Intersection

•Cars on the service road must Yield to any vehicle Exiting the Freeway •Example: All lanes on the service road must yield to a car exiting the freeway. •Cars on the service road must Yield to cars trying to enter the Freeway •Example: 2 way service rds

TC 545.154 Vehicle Entering or Leaving Limited-Access or Controlled-Access Highway

An operator about to enter or cross a highway from an alley, building, or private road or driveway shall yield right of way to a vehicle on the highway to be entered

TC 545.155 Vehicle Entering Highway From Private Road or Driveway

This section DOES NOT exempt the operator of an authorized emergency vehicle from the duty to drive with due regard for the safety of all persons using the highway.

TC 545.156 Vehicle Approached by Authorized Emergency Vehicle

•On immediate approach of an authorized emergency vehicle using audible and visual signals that meet requirements of Sections 547.305 and 547.702 or •Of a Police Vehicle lawfully using only an audible signal, an operator, unless otherwise directed by a police officer, shall

TC 545.156 Vehicle Approached by Authorized Emergency Vehicle

•Yield the Right of Way and •Immediately drive to a position parallel to and as close as possible to the right-hand edge or curb of the roadway clear of any intersection (pull to the right), and •Stop and remain standing until the emergency vehicle has passed.

TC 545.156 Vehicle Approached by Authorized Emergency Vehicle

Applies only to the following vehicles: •Stationary authorized emergency vehicle using visual signals •Stationary tow truck using equipment authorized by Section 547.305 •Stationary TxDOT vehicle not separated from the roadway by a traffic control channelizing device and using visual signals

TC 545.157 Passing Certain Vehicles

•an operator, unless otherwise directed by a police officer, shall: •vacate the lane closest to the vehicle when driving on a highway with two or more lanes traveling in the direction of the vehicle; or •slow to a speed not to exceed: •20 miles per hour less than the posted speed limit when the posted speed limit is 25 miles per hour or more; or •five miles per hour when the posted speed limit is less than 25 miles per hour.

TC 545.157 Passing Certain Vehicles

Upon approaching a railroad grade crossing an operator shall stop not closer than 15' or farther away than 50' from the nearest rail if: •a clearly visible railroad signal warns of the approach of a railroad train •A crossing gate is lowered or a flagger warns of the approach or passage of a train

TC 545.251 Obedience to Signal Indicating Approach of Train

•An engine is within 1500' and blows a horn and is an immediate hazard because of its speed •The train is plainly visible and is in hazardous proximity to the crossing or •The operator is required to stop by: •Other law, •A rule adopted under a statute, •An official traffic control device, or •A traffic control signal

TC 545.251 Obedience to Signal Indicating Approach of Train

•An operator required to stop shall remain stopped until safe to proceed. •An operator who approaches a R/R grade crossing with crossbuck signs without automatic, electric, or mechanical signal devices, crossing gate, or a flagger warning of the approach of a train shall •Yield the right-of-way to a train in hazardous proximity to the crossing, and •proceed at a speed that is reasonable for the existing conditions.

TC 545.251 Obedience to Signal Indicating Approach of Train

•If required the operator shall stop at a clearly marked stop line and if no stop line then no closer than 15' from the nearest rail or farther than 50' feet from the nearest rail.

TC 545.251 Obedience to Signal Indicating Approach of Train

•Offense to drive around, under or through a crossing gate or barrier at a railroad crossing while the gate or barrier is closed, being closed, or being opened. •Prima Facie evidence that the train was plainly visible

TC 545.251 Obedience to Signal Indicating Approach of Train

•A person may not move a vehicle that is not lawfully under their control •into a prohibited parking area or situation, •or away from a curb more than 18 inches. •i.e. - wrecker companies moving a vehicle so it becomes illegally parked so they can then tow it.

TC 545.304 Moving The Vehicle of Another; Unlawful Parking

•State or Local authority may •Designate a R/R grade crossing as particularly dangerous and •Erect a stop sign or other Official Traffic Control Device at the grade crossing. •If required shall stop no closer than 15' or no farther than 50' from the nearest rail •Cost of placing and maintaining this device shall be split by all parties having authority there.

TC 545.252 All Vehicles to Stop At Certain Railroad Grade Crossings

•After stopping as required the operator shall proceed without manually shifting gears while crossing the track •A vehicle is not required to stop if directed to proceed by a Police Officer or a Traffic-Control Device •This section does not apply to a R/R grade crossing in a Business or Residence District.

TC 545.253 Buses to Stop At All Railroad Grade Crossings

•After stopping may proceed in a gear that does not require shifting of gears while crossing the track. •An operator is not required to stop at: •An abandoned R/R grade crossing if marked "tracks out of service", or •An industrial or spur line R/R grade crossing that is marked " Exempt" •A sign must be erected with governmental consent

TC 545.253 Buses to Stop At All Railroad Grade Crossings

•Except as otherwise provided an operator of a motor bus carrying passengers for hire, before crossing a railroad grade crossing shall •stop the vehicle no closer than 15' or farther than 50' from the nearest rail •While stopped, shall listen and look in both directions along the track for a train and •May not proceed until safe to do so.

TC 545.253 Buses to Stop At All Railroad Grade Crossings

•Except as otherwise provided an operator of a school bus, before crossing a track at a R/R grade crossing shall: •stop no closer than 15' or farther than 50' from the nearest rail •While stopped, shall listen and look in both directions along the track for approach of a train and signals indicating approach •May not proceed until safe to do so.

TC 545.253 Buses to Stop At All Railroad Grade Crossings

•Before crossing R/R grade crossing, an operator of a vehicle that has an explosive substance or flammable liquid as the vehicle's principal cargo and that is moving at a speed of more than 20 MPH shall: •Reduce speed to 20 MPH before 200 feet of nearest rail, •Listen and look in both direction for train, •May not proceed until clear

TC 545.254 Vehicles Carrying Explosive Substances or Flammable Liquids

•Operator, before crossing R/R grade crossing in a municipality shall •stop not closer than 15' or farther than 50' from nearest rail and, •Listen and look in both direction for a train •May not proceed until clear. •Does not apply if: •Officially directed to proceed or •Where installed signal does not indicate approach of train. •Clearly marked Abandoned or Exempt •Streetcar crossing in a business or residential district •Or track used exclusively for Industrial switching in a business district •Must still comply with 545.251 or 545.252

TC 545.254 Vehicles Carrying Explosive Substances or Flammable Liquids

•If in a business or residence district •An operator shall: •stop before crossing sidewalk or sidewalk area extending across a driveway or an alley, •Yield to pedestrians to avoid a collision and •On entering the roadway Yield to an approaching vehicle.

TC 545.256 Emerging From An Alley, Driveway or Building

An operator may not stop, park, or leave standing an attended or unattended vehicle on the main traveled part of a highway (Roadway) outside a business or residence district unless:

TC 545.301 Stopping, Standing, or Parking Outside a Business or Residence District

Does not apply to: •a disabled vehicle that is impossible to avoid leaving there. •Vehicle used exclusively to transport solid, semisolid, or liquid waste operated at the time in connection with the removal of such from a location adjacent to highway, or •A tow truck performing its duties

TC 545.301 Stopping, Standing, or Parking Outside a Business or Residence District

•Stopping, parking or leaving the vehicle off the main traveled part of the highway is not practicable, •a width of highway beside the vehicle is unobstructed and open for the passage of other vehicles (wide enough for 2 lanes), •And the vehicle is in clear view for at least 200 feet in each direction on the highway.

TC 545.301 Stopping, Standing, or Parking Outside a Business or Residence District

•An operator may not stop, stand or park a vehicle: •on the roadway side of a vehicle stopped or parked at the edge or curb of a street (double parking) •on a sidewalk •in an intersection •on a crosswalk

TC 545.302 Stopping, Standing, or Parking Prohibited in Certain Places

•An operator may not, except temporarily to load or unload merchandise or passengers, park: •within 50 feet of the nearest rail of a R/R crossing or •where an official sign prohibits parking. •A bicycle may stop, stand, or park on a sidewalk if it does not impede pedestrian traffic.

TC 545.302 Stopping, Standing, or Parking Prohibited in Certain Places

•Except momentarily to pick up or discharge passengers, an operator may not stand or park an occupied or unoccupied vehicle: •in front of a public or private driveway •within 15 feet of a fire hydrant •within 20 feet of a crosswalk at an intersection •within 30 feet on the approach to a flashing signal, stop sign, yield sign, or official traffic control signal located at the side of a roadway •Within 20 feet of the driveway entrance to a fire station and on the opposite side of the street within 75 feet of the entrance, if entrance is properly marked with a sign •Where an official sign prohibits standing

TC 545.302 Stopping, Standing, or Parking Prohibited in Certain Places

•between a safety zone and the adjacent curb or within 30 feet of a safety zone at a curb •alongside or opposite of street construction if it obstructs traffic •on a bridge or other elevated structure on a highway or in a highway tunnel •on a R/R track •or where an official sign prohibits stopping.

TC 545.302 Stopping, Standing, or Parking Prohibited in Certain Places

•Must park within 18 inches of right curb on a two way street •Must park within 18 inches of either curb on a one-way street •Unless otherwise directed by local ordinance or other official traffic control device

TC 545.303 Additional Parking Regulations

•Not more than 2 fog lamps •Mounted on front 12 - 30 inches •High-intensity portion of the beam cannot project farther than 25 feet down the road •May be used with low beam head lamps

TC 547.328 Fog Lamps Permitted

An officer may require that the vehicle be taken to: •(1) the nearest garage or other place of safety; •(2) a garage designated or maintained by the governmental agency that employs the officer; or •(3) a position off the paved or main traveled part of the highway.

TC 545.305 Removal of Unlawfully Stopped Vehicle

•A Peace Officer or a License and Weight Inspector may remove or require to be removed a vehicle from a highway if the vehicle is: •unattended on a bridge, viaduct, or causeway or in a tube or tunnel and it is obstructing traffic, •is unlawfully parked and blocking a driveway, •is stolen •is unattended and believed to be abandoned for more than 48 hours, •is disabled and the owner or operator is: •incapacitated and unable to have it removed •not in the vicinity, or •does not designate a towing company •If the operator is arrested and the officer is required by law to take that person into custody, •if vehicle is a hazard to operate, •or if vehicle interferes with normal governmental functions during an emergency or catastrophe.

TC 545.305 Removal of Unlawfully Stopped Vehicle

•The vehicle is, in the opinion of the officer, •a hazard, •interferes with a normal function of a government agency, or •Because of a catastrophe, emergency, or unusual circumstance is imperiled

TC 545.305 Removal of Unlawfully Stopped Vehicle

An authority or law enforcement agency may remove personal property from a roadway or right-of-way if: •The property blocks the roadway or •Endangers public safety •The property may be removed without the owner's consent •The owner of the property is responsible for the cost of removal. •The authority or law enforcement agency is not liable for damage unless grossly negligent.

TC 545.3051 Removal of Personal Property from Roadway or Right-Of-Way

•After 10 PM and before 6 AM, a person may not park a commercial motor vehicle on a street of a residential subdivision where signs are posted unless: •A person is transporting persons or property to or from the subdivision, or •Performing work in the subdivision, and •Remains parked only for the time needed to complete the transportation or work.

TC 545.307 Overnight Parking of Commercial Motor Vehicle in Residential Subdivision

•The residents of the subdivision may petition a county or city for the posting of signs prohibiting the overnight parking of commercial vehicles. •25% of residents must sign the petition, but not more than one per household at least 18 years old. •The county or city shall then post the signs at each entrance to, or within the subdivision. •Residents may be required to pay for the costs of providing the signs. •Residential Subdivision for this section is defined as: A subdivision in a county with a population of more than 220,000

TC 545.307 Overnight Parking of Commercial Motor Vehicle in Residential Subdivision

•The governing body of a local authority, by ordinance, order, or other official action, may provide that in a prosecution for an offense under this subchapter involving the stopping, standing, or parking of an unattended motor vehicle it is presumed that the registered owner of the vehicle is the person who stopped, stood, or parked the vehicle at the time and place the offense occurred.

TC 545.308 Presumption

An operator may not drive at a speed: Greater than is reasonable and prudent under the circumstances then existing.

TC 545.351 Maximum Speed Requirement

An operator may not drive at a speed: Greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions and having regard for actual and potential hazards then existing

TC 545.351 Maximum Speed Requirement

•An operator shall drive at an appropriate reduced speed if: •Approaching or crossing an intersection or R/R grade crossing •Approaching and going around a curve •Approaching a hill crest •Traveling on a narrow or winding roadway and •A special hazard exists with regard to traffic, including pedestrians, or weather or highway conditions.

TC 545.351 Maximum Speed Requirement

•An operator shall: •Shall control the speed as necessary to avoid colliding with another person or vehicle that is on or entering the highway in compliance with law, and the duty of each person to use due care.

TC 545.351 Maximum Speed Requirement

Outside urban district it's: •60 mph If it's a school bus that passed a commercial motor vehicle inspection (TC548.201) and is on highway numbered by state or US incl. farm to market Rd, or •50 mph if it's a school bus has not passed commercial vehicle inspection (TC548.201)or travelling on highway not numbered by state or US

TC 545.352 Prima Facie Speed Limits

Unless a special hazard exists that require a slower speed the following speeds are lawful: •30 mph in urban district on street other than alley, •15 mph in an alley

TC 545.352 Prima Facie Speed Limits

Unless a special hazard exists that require a slower speed the following speeds are lawful: •70 mph on highway numbered by this state or the US outside an urban district, incl. farm to market or ranch to market road; •60 mph on a highway that's outside an urban district and not a highway numbered by state or US

TC 545.352 Prima Facie Speed Limits

•A speed in excess of the limits established by Subsection (b) or under another provision of this chapter is prima facie evidence that the speed is not reasonable and prudent and that the speed is unlawful.

TC 545.352 Prima Facie Speed Limits

•On a beach, 15 mph; or •On a county road adjacent to a public beach, 15 mph if declared by the commissioners court of the county •The speed limits for a bus hauling passengers for hire, for commercial vehicles used as a highway post office vehicle or highway post office service in the transportation of US Mail, for a light truck, and for a school activity bus are the same as for a passenger car at the same time and location.

TC 545.352 Prima Facie Speed Limits

If the Texas Transportation Commission determines that a prima facie speed limit is unreasonable or unsafe on a highway, then the commission may determine and declare: •a reasonable and safe speed limit and •another reasonable and safe speed limit because of wet or inclement weather

TC 545.353 Authority of Texas Transportation Commission to Alter Speed Limits

•This chapter does not prohibit and the department by rule may not prohibit the use of: •(1) equipment required by an agency of the United States; or •(2) a part or accessory not inconsistent with this chapter or a rule adopted under this chapter.

TC 547.003 Equipment Not Affected

•The commission may establish a speed limit of 75 MPH if that speed is reasonable and safe for that highway •May establish a speed of 80 MPH on a part of I-10 and I-20 in certain counties (Those counties are Crockett, Culberson, Hudspeth, Jeff Davis, Kerr, Kimble, Pecos, Reeves, Sutton and Ward) •May establish a speed of 85 mph on state highway system if that part is designed to accommodate travel at that speed and its reasonable and safe for that part of highway •The commission may not declare a prima facie speed limit for environmental purposes on a part of the highway system.

TC 545.353 Authority of Texas Transportation Commission to Alter Speed Limits

•The commission shall consider the width and condition of the pavement, unusual traffic, and other circumstances in determining a safe speed limit. •The speed limit will become effective when signs are erected giving notice of the new speed limit and will be effective at all times. •The commission only has the authority to alter speed limits of the State Highway system, both inside and outside a municipality. i.e. - they can't change limits on city streets.

TC 545.353 Authority of Texas Transportation Commission to Alter Speed Limits

(b) The commissioners court of a county may declare a lower speed limit of not less than: (1) 30 miles per hour on a county road or highway to which this section applies, if the commissioners court determines that the prima facie speed limit on the road or highway is unreasonable or unsafe; or

TC 545.355 Authority of County Commissioners Court

(b) The commissioners court of a county may declare a lower speed limit of not less than: (2) 20 miles per hour: (A) in a residence district, unless the roadway has been designated as a major thoroughfare by a city planning commission; or (B) on a county road or highway to which this section applies that is located within 500 feet of an elementary, secondary, or open-enrollment charter school or an institution of higher education, if approved under Section 545.357 .

TC 545.355 Authority of County Commissioners Court

(c) The commissioners court may not modify the rule established by Section 545.351(a) or establish a speed limit of more than 70 miles per hour. (d) The commissioners court may modify a prima facie speed limit in accordance with this section only by an order entered on its records. (e) The commissioners court of a county with a population of more than 2.8 million may establish from the results of an engineering and traffic investigation a speed limit of not more than 75 miles per hour on any part of a highway of that county that is a limited-access or controlled-access highway, regardless of the location of the part of the highway.

TC 545.355 Authority of County Commissioners Court

The governing body of a local authority, by ordinance, order, or other official action, may provide that in a prosecution for an offense under this subchapter involving the stopping, standing, or parking of an unattended motor vehicle it is presumed that the registered owner of the vehicle is the person who stopped, stood, or parked the vehicle at the time and place the offense occurred.

TC 545.355 Authority of County Commissioners Court

•An operator driving over a bridge or other elevated structure may drive at a speed not greater than the maximum speed that can be maintained with safety to the bridge or structure, when signs are posted.

TC 545.361 Special Speed Limitations

•Bridges may have a special posted speed limit if the bridge structure can not withstand vehicle speeds that might otherwise be permissible.

TC 545.361 Special Speed Limitations

•Motor-driven cycle may not drive at a speed of more than 35 mph during the time specified by Section 547.302(a) (when lights are required) unless it has a headlamp that reveals a person or vehicle 300 feet ahead. •A vehicle with a solid rubber or cushion tire may not drive faster than 10 mph

TC 545.361 Special Speed Limitations

•Self-propelled machinery designed or adapted for applying plant food materials or agricultural chemicals and not designed for the sole purpose of transportation may not drive faster than 30 mph unless it is registered under Chapter 502.

TC 545.361 Special Speed Limitations

•An operator may not drive so slow as to impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic, except when reduced speed is necessary for safe operation or in compliance with law. •Minimum speed limits may be posted.

TC 545.363 Minimum Speed Regulations

A municipality by ordinance may regulate the speed of: •An ambulance, •An emergency medical services vehicle, or •An authorized emergency vehicle operated by a blood or tissue bank.

TC 545.365 Speed Limit Exception for Emergencies; Municipal Regulations

The regulation of speed of a vehicle under this subchapter does not apply to: •An authorized emergency vehicle responding to a call, •A police patrol, or •A physician or ambulance responding to an emergency call.

TC 545.365 Speed Limit Exception for Emergencies; Municipal Regulations

•A person commits an offense if the person drives a vehicle in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property. •Misdemeanor punishable by •Fine not to exceed $200 •Confinement in the county jail for not more than 30 days or Both. •Includes Public areas except private residential property or pay parking lots

TC 545.401 Reckless Driving; Offense

An operator may not begin movement of a stopped, standing, or parked vehicle unless the movement can be made safely.

TC 545.402 Moving a Parked Vehicle

May not drive through or in a safety zone

TC 545.403 Driving Through Safety Zone

An operator may not leave the vehicle unattended without: 1.Stopping the engine, 2.Locking the ignition, 3.Removing the key, 4.Set the parking brake, 5.Turn front wheels to curb or side of highway if on a grade.

TC 545.404 Unattended Motor Vehicle

The requirements of Subsections (a)(1), (2), and (3) do not apply to an operator who starts the engine of a vehicle by using a remote starter or other similar device that: (1) remotely starts the vehicle's engine without placing the key in the ignition; and (2) requires the key to be placed in the ignition or physically present in the vehicle before the vehicle can be operated.

TC 545.404 Unattended Motor Vehicle

An offense if person operates or permits another to operate a vehicle that: •is unsafe, •Not properly equipped with vehicle standards, or •Equipped in a manner that is prohibited.

TC 547.004 General Offenses

•May not follow closer than 500 feet if they are responding to a call, •Drive or park the vehicle in the block where fire truck stops in response to a fire call, •May not drive or park where an ambulance has been summoned in a manner that interferes with arrival or departure of the ambulance.

TC 545.407 Following or Obstructing Fire Apparatus or Ambulance

•Without the consent of the fire department official in command •May not drive over an unprotected hose of the fire department, if •On the street or private driveway and the hose is intended for use at a fire

TC 545.408 Crossing Fire Hose

•Operator drawing another vehicle and using chain, rope, or cable to connect the vehicle shall display on the connection a white flag or cloth not less than 12 inches square •May not draw more than 3 motor vehicles by triple saddle-mount method

TC 545.409 Drawbars and Trailer Hitches; Saddle-mount towing

•The drawbar or other connection •must be strong enough to pull all the weight drawn; and •May not exceed 15 feet between vehicles for a connection between vehicles transporting poles, pipe, machinery, or other objects of structural nature that cannot be readily dismembered.

TC 545.409 Drawbars and Trailer Hitches; Saddle-mount towing

•Operator of passenger car or light truck must use safety chains of a type approved by the department when drawing a trailer, semitrailer, house trailer, or another motor vehicle, which must be attached between drawing vehicle and what's drawn. •The department shall adopt rules prescribing types of safety chains in accordance with the weight of what's drawn. •Require safety chains to be strong enough and show the proper method to attach the chains

TC 545.410 Towing Safety Chains

Does not apply to: •Vehicle hauling passengers for hire, including third-party transport service providers under contract to provide non-emergency Medicaid transportation, or •Vehicle in which all seats are taken providing all seatbelts are being used. •Defense to prosecution that the person was operating the vehicle in an emergency or •For law enforcement purposes •Fine $25 to $250.

TC 545.412 Child Passenger Safety Seat Systems; Offense

While operating a passenger vehicle: •Transports a child •Under 8 years of age, unless taller than 4 feet 9 inches in height •Not secured in approved child passenger safety seat system. •Must be used according to the instructions of the manufacturer.

TC 545.412 Child Passenger Safety Seat Systems; Offense

A person commits an offense if the person allows a child who is younger than 17 years of age and who is not required to be secured in a child passenger safety seat system under Section 545.412(a) •to ride in a passenger van designed to transport 15 or fewer passengers, including the driver, without securing the child individually by a safety belt, if the child is occupying a seat that is equipped with a safety belt. •A passenger vehicle or a seat in a passenger vehicle is considered to be equipped with a safety belt if the vehicle is required under Section 547.601 to be equipped with safety belts.

TC 545.413 Safety Belts; Offense

A person commits an offense if the person: (1) operates a passenger vehicle that is equipped with safety belts; and (2) allows a child who is younger than 17 years of age and who is not required to be secured in a child passenger safety seat system under Section 545.412(a) to ride in the vehicle without requiring the child to be secured by a safety belt, provided the child is occupying a seat that is equipped with a safety belt. •Fine of $100 to $200

TC 545.413 Safety Belts; Offense

A person commits an offense if: •they are 15 or older, •Is riding in a passenger vehicle while it is being operated, and •is occupying a seat that is equipped with a safety belt, and they are not secured by a safety belt. •Or as the operator of school bus equipped with safety belt is not wearing it. •Fine $25 to $50

TC 545.413 Safety Belts; Offense

Defenses to Safety Belt Prosecution: •Written statement from physician or can produce within ten days •Postal Employees engaged in duties •Newspaper delivery while actually delivering •Meter readers •Operating commercial farm vehicle with a gross weight of 48,000 pounds or more •Operator or passenger in vehicle used exclusively to transport solid waste and performing duties that require frequent entry into and exit from the vehicle.

TC 545.413 Safety Belts; Offense

Operates an open-bed pickup truck or an open flatbed truck or draws an open flatbed trailer •When a child under 18 is occupying the bed of the truck or trailer •$25-$200 Defense that it was: •a parade, hay-ride or emergency •vehicle was operated on a beach •operating a vehicle that is the only vehicle owned or operated by a household

TC 545.414 Riding in Open Beds; Offense

Offense if operates motor vehicle on a highway or street when child younger than 18 years of age is occupying boat or personal watercraft being drawn by motor vehicle •Defense if in a parade or in an emergency; or •Operating the motor vehicle on a beach

TC 545.4145 Riding in or on Boat or Personal watercraft drawn by vehicle

•Movement must be made safely without interfering with other traffic. •May not back on a shoulder or roadway of a limited or controlled access highway.

TC 545.415 Backing a Vehicle

•Operator shall ride on permanent and regular seat attached to the motorcycle. •May not carry another person unless designed to carry more than one person. •Equipped with footrests and handhold for passenger •Passenger may only ride on seat behind or beside the operator (side car).

TC 545.416 Riding on Motorcycle

•an operator may not carry another person on a motorcycle unless the other person is at least five years of age •Unless seated in a sidecar •Fine $100 - $200

TC 545.416 Riding on Motorcycle

•If more than 3 people in the front seat it may not obstruct the operators view to the front or side windows, •or interfere with any part of the driving mechanism. •Violation for Driver and Passenger •May not load vehicle so as to do same

TC 545.417 Obstruction of Operator's View or Driving Mechanism

May not open door on the side available to moving traffic unless: •It can be done with reasonable safety and without interfering with other traffic •Violation to leave door open longer than necessary to load or unload a passenger.

TC 545.418 Opening Vehicle Doors

•May not occupy a house trailer while it is being moved.

TC 545.419 Riding in House Trailer

•A person may not operate a truck, road tractor, or truck tractor when another person occupies a trailer or semi-trailer while it is being drawn. Defense: •Parade or emergency •Hay-ride •Operator did not know the person was in the trailer •The person was occupying a part of the trailer designed for human habitation •Class B

TC 545.4191 Person Riding in Trailer or Semi-Trailer drawn by Truck, Road Tractor, or Truck Tractor

A person may not participate in any manner in: •A race •A vehicle speed contest •A drag race or acceleration contest •Test of Physical endurance of the operator (long distance driving route i.e. - road rally) •Exhibition of speed or acceleration

TC 545.420 Racing on Highway

•M/B •M/A if prior conviction, intoxicated or in possession of open container •F/3 if results in bodily injury •F/2 if serious bodily injury or death

TC 545.420 Racing on Highway

•Class B misdemeanor unless •Recklessly endangers another with serious bodily injury while fleeing then Class A misdemeanor •If intoxicated they are presumed to be recklessly endangering others

TC 545.421 Fleeing or Attempting to Elude Police Officer; Offense

•While operating a motor vehicle fails to stop, flees or attempts to elude a pursuing Police Vehicle when •Given a visual or audible signal to stop •Signal may be by hand, voice, emergency light or siren •Officer must be in uniform, wearing badge •Police vehicle must be marked

TC 545.421 Fleeing or Attempting to Elude Police Officer; Offense

•May not drive a motor vehicle on a sidewalk, sidewalk area or hike and bike trail except on a driveway •Unless authorized and doing maintenance on a hike or bike trail

TC 545.422 Crossing Sidewalk or Hike and Bike Trail

•Operator may not cross a sidewalk or drive through a driveway, parking lot, or business or residential entrance without stopping the vehicle. •May not drive through these areas at intersections to avoid traffic control device.

TC 545.423 Crossing Property

(a) A person under 18 years old may not operate a motor vehicle while using a wireless communications device, except emergency case (a-1) A person under 18 years old, during the first 12 months following issuance of an original D.L., may not operate a motor vehicle: •after midnight and before 5am (unless necessary for work, school or medical emergency), •or with more than one person under 21 years of age that is not a family member,

TC 545.424 Operation of vehicle by person under 18 years of age

(b) A person under 17 old who holds a restricted motorcycle or moped license may not operate a motorcycle or moped while using a wireless communications device, except emergency case (b-1) A person under 17 with a restricted motorcycle or moped license, during 12 months following issuance of an original motorcycle or moped license, may not operate a motorcycle or moped after midnight and before 5am, unless •in sight of parent or guardian, or •necessary for work, school or medical emergency.

TC 545.424 Operation of vehicle by person under 18 years of age

This section does not apply to: •the holder of an instruction permit if accompanied as required. (Must have "instructor" with them) •Person licensed by FCC to operate wireless communication or radio frequency device •For this section, employment includes working on a family farm. •Peace officer may NOT stop a vehicle for the sole purpose of determining if this section is being violated.

TC 545.424 Operation of vehicle by person under 18 years of age

A person may not use a wireless communication device while operating a motor vehicle within a school crossing zone, unless: •the vehicle is stopped or •the wireless communication device is used with a hands-free device.

TC 545.425 Use of Wireless Communication Device by Certain Motorists

Affirmative defense that it was used to make an emergency call to: -an emergency response service, incl. a rescue, emergency medical, or hazardous material response service; -a hospital -a fire department -a health clinic -a medical doctor's office -an individual to administer first aid treatment; or -a police department; or -sign was not posted at entrance to school zone Does not apply to authorized emergency vehicle or operator of FCC

TC 545.425 Use of Wireless Communication Device by Certain Motorists

•Must have signs posted entering school zone, its prohibited, and subject to fine •If by ordinance or rule prohibits use in entire jurisdiction signs are not required as prior, but must post at state highway, US Highway, or interstate highway enter into that jurisdiction •Signs must say operator is prohibited from using a wireless communication device while operating a motor vehicle in this political subdivision; and •Subject to fine if operator uses one there; and •Subject to all applicable US Department of Transportation FHA rules, posts a message on any dynamic message sign operated by the political subdivision located at those named entry points

TC 545.425 Use of Wireless Communication Device by Certain Motorists

•Operator may not use device while operating a passenger bus with a minor passenger on the bus unless passenger bus is stopped.

TC 545.425 Use of Wireless Communication Device by Certain Motorists

A peace officer who stops a motor vehicle for an alleged violation of this section may not take possession of or otherwise inspect a portable wireless communication device in the possession of the operator unless authorized by the Code of Criminal Procedure, the Penal Code, or other law.

TC 545.4251 USE OF PORTABLE WIRELESS COMMUNICATION DEVICE FOR ELECTRONIC MESSAGING; OFFENSE

An operator commits an offense if the operator uses a portable wireless communication device to read, write, or send an electronic message while operating a motor vehicle unless the vehicle is stopped.

TC 545.4251 USE OF PORTABLE WIRELESS COMMUNICATION DEVICE FOR ELECTRONIC MESSAGING; OFFENSE

The following are exempt unless specifically stated otherwise: -Implement of Husbandry -Road Machinery -Road Roller -Farm Tractor -Bicycle, bicyclist, bicycle equipment -Electric bicycle, electric bicyclist, electric bicycle equipment Golf cart operated in: -A master planned community -Public or private beach -A public highway, speed limit not more than 35, if operated: -During day time -To and from golf course within 2 miles from place parked

TC 547.002 Applicability

If vehicle states "School Bus" then the vehicle must be used to transport children primarily to and from school.

TC 547.005 Offense Relating to Violation of Special-Use Provisions

It is an affirmative defense to prosecution of an offense under this section that the operator used a portable wireless communication device: (1) in conjunction with a hands-free device, as defined by Section 545.425; (2) to navigate using a global positioning system or navigation system; (3) to report •illegal activity, •summon emergency help, or •enter information into a software application that provides information relating to traffic and road conditions to users of the application •(4) to read an electronic message that the person reasonably believed concerned an emergency; •(5) that was permanently or temporarily affixed to the vehicle to relay information in the course of the operator's occupational duties between the operator and: •(A) a dispatcher; or •(B) a digital network or software application service; or (6) to activate a function that plays music.

TC 545.4251 USE OF PORTABLE WIRELESS COMMUNICATION DEVICE FOR ELECTRONIC MESSAGING; OFFENSE

(b) Except as provided by Section 545.425(c) , an operator may not use a wireless communication device while operating a motor vehicle on the property of a public elementary, middle, junior high, or high school for which a local authority has designated a school crossing zone, during the time a reduced speed limit is in effect for the school crossing zone, unless: (1) the vehicle is stopped; or (2) the wireless communication device is used with a hands-free device.

TC 545.4252 Use of Wireless Communication Device on School Property; Offense

(c) It is an affirmative defense to prosecution of an offense under this section that the wireless communication device was used to make an emergency call to: (1) an emergency response service, including a rescue, emergency medical, or hazardous material response service; (2) a hospital; (3) a fire department; (4) a health clinic; (5) a medical doctor's office; (6) an individual to administer first aid treatment; or (7) a police department.

TC 545.4252 Use of Wireless Communication Device on School Property; Offense

(d) This section does not apply to: (1) an operator of an authorized emergency vehicle using a wireless communication device while acting in an official capacity; or (2) an operator who is licensed by the Federal Communications Commission while operating a radio frequency device other than a wireless communication device. (e) This section preempts all local ordinances, rules, or regulations that are inconsistent with specific provisions of this section adopted by a political subdivision of this state relating to the use of a wireless communication device by the operator of a motor vehicle, except that a political subdivision may by ordinance or rule prohibit the use of a wireless communication device while operating a motor vehicle throughout the jurisdiction of the political subdivision.

TC 545.4252 Use of Wireless Communication Device on School Property; Offense

May not operate school bus if: -door of school bus still open; or -number of passengers beyond manufacturer rating While operating school bus, operator shall prohibit: -standing in the bus; or -sitting on the floor of bus or any other location that's not a designated seat

TC 545.426 Operation of School Bus

•Operator may not drive on or cross a railroad grade crossing unless the vehicle has sufficient undercarriage clearance •Fine $50 to $200

TC 545.427 Operation of Vehicle with Insufficient undercarriage clearance

An operator of an Authorized Emergency Vehicle may: •Park or Stand where necessary •Proceed past a red light or stop sign after slowing as necessary for safe operation

TC 546.001 Permissible Conduct

•Exceed maximum speed limits except as provided by an ordinance adopted under 545.365(speed limit exceptions for emergencies; municipal regulations) •As long as the operator does not endanger life or property; and •Disregard a regulation governing the direction of movement or turning in specified directions (may drive the wrong way and turn the wrong way).

TC 546.001 Permissible Conduct

Section 546.001 applies only when the operator is: •Responding to an emergency call; •Pursuing an actual or suspected violator of the law; or •Responding to but NOT returning from a fire alarm. •Directing or diverting traffic for public safety purposes •Conducting a Police escort

TC 546.002 When Conduct Permissible

Except as provided in 546.004 an operator engaged in Permissible Conduct shall use: •at the discretion of the operator in accordance with local policy or law, •audible or Visual signals that meet the requirements of 547.305 and 547.702

TC 546.003 Audible or Visual Signals Required

Responding to an emergency call or pursuing a suspected violator of the law with probable cause to believe that: •Knowledge of the presence of the officer will cause the suspect to: •Destroy or lose evidence of a suspected felony; •End a suspected continuing felony before there is enough evidence for arrest; or •Evade apprehension or identification of the suspect's vehicle; or •Increase potential for collision on multi-laned roadway or extend pursuit. •To comply with Department regulations

TC 546.004 Exceptions to Signal Requirement

•A volunteer firefighter who operates a private vehicle as an authorized emergency vehicle must use visual signals. •Police vehicle is not required to have red light visible to the front. •A police vehicle may operate without using audible or visual signals required by 546.003, if the officer is:

TC 546.004 Exceptions to Signal Requirement

These exceptions do not relieve the emergency vehicle operator from: •the duty to operate the vehicle with appropriate regard for the safety of all persons or •the consequences of reckless disregard for the safety of others.

TC 546.005 Duty of Care

The department shall designate which vehicle may be operated by designated organizations as emergency vehicles during declared disasters. Operated like authorized emergency vehicle if: -Governor declares state of disaster -department requests assistance from designated organization; and -is operated by designated organization or member there of in response to disaster state

TC 546.006 Designated emergency vehicle during declared disasters

-Fire department operated by an emergency services district; -Volunteer fire department; or -Fire department of general-law municipality -When performing official duties may close 1 or more lanes to protect safety of persons/property -Shall limit to the affected lane/lanes and 1 extra unless personnel safety requires more lanes -Shall deploy 1 or more authorized emergency vehicles with audible and visual signals

TC 546.007 Closure of Road or Highway by Firefighter

A visibility distance requirement imposed by this chapter for a lamp or device applies when a lighted lamp or device is required and is measured as if the vehicle were unloaded and on a straight, level, unlighted highway under normal atmospheric conditions.

TC 547.301 General Provisions Relating to Measurements

Required lamps shall be illuminated •at nighttime, •When light is insufficient or when atmospheric conditions are unfavorable and persons or vehicles are not visible for 1000 feet ahead,

TC 547.302 Duty to Display Lights

•Turn signals and stop lamps shall be displayed on each side of the vehicle •One lighted lamp on each side of the front of the vehicle (headlights) Not more than four of the following may be lighted at one time on the front of a motor vehicle: •Headlamp •A lamp, including an auxiliary lamp or spotlamp, that projects beam with an intensity brighter than 300 candlepower

TC 547.302 Duty to Display Lights

•Unless authorized all rear mounted lights and reflectors must be or reflect red. •Signals may be red, amber or yellow.

TC 547.303 Color Requirements

-To be equipped w/ fixed electric lights does not apply to farm trailer or fertilizer registered under TC 502.146 or a boat trailer with gross weight of 3000 lbs or less if the trailer is not operated at a time or condition specified in 547.302(a) -boat trailer gross weight of less than 4500 lbs does not apply, except for brake lights and turn signals unless operated under conditions specified in 547.302(a) -Except under 547.323 & .324 provision to be equipped with lamps, reflectors, and lighting equipment does not apply to mobile home if its moved under a permit and not moved under condition specified by 547.302(a) -Mobile home may only be moved in daytime

TC 547.304 Applicability

A motor vehicle is equipped with a lamp or illuminating device under this section regardless of whether the lamp or illuminating device is: (1) attached to the motor vehicle temporarily or permanently; or (2) activated.

TC 547.305 Restrictions on Use of Lights

A security patrol vehicle may only be equipped with green, amber, or white lights

TC 547.305 Restrictions on Use of Lights

May have alternately flashing lighting equipment if: •School bus •Authorized emergency vehicle •Church Bus has the words "church bus" printed on the front and rear •Tow truck while on scene under direction of law enforcement officer •Tow truck w/ mounted light bar which has turn signals and stop lamps in addition to those required

TC 547.305 Restrictions on Use of Lights

•A motor vehicle lamp or illuminating device, other than a headlamp, spot lamp, auxiliary lamp, turn signal lamp, or emergency vehicle, tow truck, or school bus warning lamp, that project a beam with an intensity brighter than 300 candlepower shall be directed so that no part of the high intensity portion of the beam strikes the roadway at a distance of more than 75 feet in front of the vehicle. (driving lights, fog lights)

TC 547.305 Restrictions on Use of Lights

•A person may not operate a highway maintenance or service vehicle that is not equipped with lamps or that does not display lighted lamps as required by the standards and specifications adopted by the Texas Department of Transportation •(blue lights)

TC 547.305 Restrictions on Use of Lights

•No red lights visible to front of vehicle other than police vehicle •Unlawful to have red, white, or blue beacon, flashing, or alternating light unless •Specifically authorized by this chapter, or •a running lamp, headlamp, taillamp, backup lamp, or turn signal lamp that is used as authorized by law

TC 547.305 Restrictions on Use of Lights

A person may operate a motorcycle equipped with LED ground effect lighting that emits a non-flashing amber or white light

TC 547.306 LED GROUND EFFECT LIGHTING EQUIPMENT ON MOTORCYCLE

•At least two •One on each side •24 - 54 inches from the ground to center of lamp

TC 547.321 Headlamps Required

•Lighting, reflective devices, and associated equipment on a motor vehicle must comply with current federal standards in 49 C.F.R. section 547.108; or •The federal standards in that section in effect, if any, at the time the vehicle or motor vehicle was manufactured.

TC 547.3215 Use of Federal Standards

A motor vehicle, trailer, semi-trailer, pole trailer, or vehicle that is towed at the end of a combination of vehicles shall be equipped with at least: •2 taillamp •Before 1960- only one required •At the same level and spaced as widely apart as practicable •15 - 72 inches from the ground to the center of the lamp •Must be red •Visible 1000 feet to rear •If towed in combination only rearmost vehicle required to be illuminated

TC 547.322 Taillamps Required

•License plate light must be white and visible from 50 feet and must work when headlights are on

TC 547.322 Taillamps Required

A motor vehicle, trailer, semi-trailer, or pole trailer will have: •At least 2 stoplamps •Before1960 only one required •Must be red or amber, or a color between red and amber •Visible in sun light at a distance of 300 feet •Displayed when service brakes are applied •May be part of another rear lamp

TC 547.323 Stoplamps Required

•A motor vehicle, trailer, semi-trailer, or pole trailer shall be equipped with: •Electric turn signal lamps: •Visible to front and rear •Mounted at same level •As wide as possible •May be part of another lamp •Front emits white or amber or a color between white and amber •Rear emits red or amber, or a color between red and amber •Must be visible to front and rear in sunlight from: •If at least 80 inches wide, 500 feet •If less than 80 inches wide, 300 feet

TC 547.324 Turn Signal Lamps Required

•At least two red reflectors on the rear •15 - 60 inches from the ground •can be a part of a taillamp •Visible at night from •100 - 600 feet in front of lower beam lights •100 - 350 feet in front of upper beam lights if manufactured before 1-1-72

TC 547.325 Reflectors Required

Vehicles not specifically required to be equipped with lamps shall: •When light required (nighttime) •have at least 1 white light visible to the front for 1000 feet •have at least 2 red lamps visible to rear for 1000 feet, or •1 red lamp with 2 reflectors that are visible 100-600' by lower beam headlights •Includes Animal drawn vehicles

TC 547.326 Minimum Lighting Equipment Required

•A headlamp, auxiliary driving lamp, auxiliary passing lamp, or a combination of those lamps shall be arranged so that the operator can select between high and low beams lamps automatically. •The distribution of light must reveal a person or vehicle at a distance of at least: •450 feet ahead with high beam lamps and •150 feet ahead with low beam lamps. •Low beam must be aimed so that no portion of the beam projects into the eyes of an approaching vehicle operator

TC 547.333 Multiple-Beam Lighting Equipment Required

•Must dim high beam lights within 500 feet of approaching oncoming traffic and within 300 feet of approaching a vehicle from the rear. •Must have a high beam indicator in the dash that shows the operator when the high beams are lit.

TC 547.333 Multiple-Beam Lighting Equipment Required

(a) In lieu of the multiple-beam lighting equipment required by Section 547.333 , a headlamp system that provides a single distribution of light and meets the requirements of Subsection (b) is permitted for: (1) a farm tractor; or (2) a motor vehicle manufactured and sold before September 4, 1948.

TC 547.334 SINGLE-BEAM LIGHTING EQUIPMENT PERMITTED

(b) The headlamp system specified by Subsection (a) shall: (1) emit a light sufficient to reveal a person or vehicle at a distance of at least 200 feet; and (2) be aimed so that no part of the high-intensity portion of the lamp projects a beam: (A) higher than five inches below the level of the center of the lamp at a distance of 25 feet ahead; or (B) higher than 42 inches above the ground at a distance of 75 feet ahead.

TC 547.334 SINGLE-BEAM LIGHTING EQUIPMENT PERMITTED

The color, mounting, and visibility requirements in this subchapter apply only to equipment on a vehicle described by section 347.352

TC 547.351 Applicability

•A vehicle at least 80 inches wide may be equipped with: -not more than 3 front identification lamps without glare; and -not more than 3 rear identification lamps without glare

TC 547.352 Additional Lighting Equipment Requirements

•Bus, truck, trailer, or semitrailer at least 80 inches wide shall be equipped with: -2 clearance lamps on front, 1 on each side; -2 clearance lamps on rear, 1 on each side; -4 side marker lamps, 1 on each side at or near the front and 1 on each side at or near rear; -4 reflectors, 1 on each side at or near the front and 1 on each side at or near rear; and -hazard lamps meet requirements TC 547.331 •Bus or truck at least 30 feet long shall be equipped with hazard lamps meet TC 547.331

TC 547.352 Additional Lighting Equipment Requirements

•Pole trailer shall be equipped with: -2 side marker lamps,1 each side at or near front of load; -1 reflector at or near front of load -1 combination marker lamp that emits amber light to front and red light to rear and side; and -mounted at rearmost support for load to show maximum with of trailer; and -hazard lamps that meet TC 547.331, if pole trailer is at least 30 feet long or at least 80 inches wide;

TC 547.352 Additional Lighting Equipment Requirements

•Trailer or semitrailer at least 30 feet long shall be equipped with: -2 side marker lamps, 1 centrally mounted each side with respect to length of vehicle; -2 reflectors, 1 centrally mounted on each side with respect to length of vehicle; and -hazard lamps that meet TC 547.331

TC 547.352 Additional Lighting Equipment Requirements

•Truck-tractor shall be equipped with: -2 clearance lamps, 1 at each side on front of the cab; and -hazard lamps that meet TC 547.331, if the truck-tractor is at least 30 feet long or 80 inches wide; and

TC 547.352 Additional Lighting Equipment Requirements

•Clearance lamp, identification lamp, side marker lamp, or reflector mounted on front, side near front, or in center of the vehicle must be or reflect amber or red.

TC 547.353 Color Requirements

•A clearance lamp shall be mounted, if practicable, on permanent structure of vehicle to indicate extreme height and width of vehicle, except that: -a clearance lamp on a truck-tractor shall be mounted to indicate the extreme width of the cab; and -a front clearance lamp may be mounted at a height that indicates, as near as practicable, the extreme width of trailer if mounting of the lamp would not indicate the extreme width of trailer. •A clearance lamp and side marker lamp may be mounted in combination if each complies with TC 547.355

TC 547.354 Mounting requirements

•A reflector shall be mounted: -24 to 60 inches; or -as high as practicable on permanent structure of vehicle if highest part is less than 24 inches. •A rear reflector may be: -incl. as part of tail lamp if reflector meets requirement of this subchapter; and -mounted each side of bolster/load if pole trailer

TC 547.354 Mounting requirements

•A clearance lamp, identification lamp, or side marker lamp shall be visible under normal atmospheric conditions at all distances from 50 to 500 feet on side, front, and rear where lamps mounted. •A reflector required here shall be visible from rear or side, at nighttime at all distances from 100 to 600 feet when reflector is directly in front of: -lawful lower beams of headlamps; or -lawful upper beams of headlamps on vehicle manufactured or assembled prior 01/01/1972

TC 547.355 Visibility Requirements

•A farm tractor, self propelled unit of farm equipment, implement of husbandry shall have: -at least 2 headlamps that comply with 547.333, 547.334, or 547.335; -at least 1 red lamp visible at distance of at least 1000 feet from rear and mounted as far to left of center of vehicle as practicable; -at least 2 red reflectors visible from 100 to 600 feet from rear when directly in headlight; and -hazard lamps(TC 547.331), shall be lighted and visible normal sunlight at least 1000 front/rear

TC 547.371 General Lighting Equipment Requirements

•If towing (in combination) only the lamps on the rearmost vehicle are required to be lit.

TC 547.381 Obstructed Lights on Combination Vehicles

•A vehicle that is transporting a load, at nighttime, that extends four feet beyond the back of the vehicle, shall •Display on the end of the load, two red lamps that are visible at least 500 feet to the rear, •two red reflectors that indicate the maximum width of the load, and •two red lamps, one on each side, visible at least 500 feet from the side.

TC 547.382 Lighting Equipment on Projecting Loads

•During daytime, a vehicle shall have: -red flags at least 12 inches square, -the flags must mark the extremities of the load -placed where a lamp would be required at night.

TC 547.382 Lighting Equipment on Projecting Loads

•A vehicle that is parked or stopped on on a roadway or shoulder at night shall have lamps illuminated, with lights dimmed, unless; •the vehicle is lawfully parked and there is sufficient light to reveal a person or vehicle at a distance of 1000 feet.

TC 547.383 Lighting Requirements on Parked Vehicles

•A vehicle, other than a motor-driven cycle, •Shall be equipped with at least one lamp or a combination of lamps that; •emits an amber or white light visible at least 1000 feet from the front and •a red light visible at least 1000 feet from the rear; and •lights are mounted on the side of vehicle closest to oncoming traffic.

TC 547.383 Lighting Requirements on Parked Vehicles

•A motor vehicle, trailer, semi-trailer, pole trailer, or combination of those vehicle shall be equipped with brakes that comply with this chapter. •Does not apply to a trailer, semi-trailer, or pole trailer if; •its gross weight is 4500 pounds or less or •it is heavier than 4500 pounds but not heavier than 15000 pounds and •is not going faster than 30 mph.

TC 547.401 Brakes Required

•A trailer or semi-trailer with a gross weight of less than 15000 pounds may use surge or inertia brakes. •All brake shall be maintained in good working order.

TC 547.402 Operation and Maintenance of Brakes

•Required brakes shall operate on each wheel of a vehicle except; •on special mobile equipment; or •a vehicle being towed as a commodity when at least one set of wheels is on the roadway; and •a trailer, semi-trailer, or pole trailer with a gross weight between 4501 and 15000 pounds if going more than 30 mph if the brakes operate on both wheels of the rear axle.

TC 547.402 Operation and Maintenance of Brakes

(a) A vehicle required to have brakes by this subchapter, other than special mobile equipment, shall be equipped with service brakes that: (1) comply with the performance requirements of this subchapter; and (2) are adequate to control the movement of the vehicle, including stopping and holding, under all loading conditions and when on any grade on which the vehicle is operated.

TC 547.403 Service Brakes Required

(b) A vehicle required to have brakes by this subchapter shall be equipped so that one control device operates the service brakes. This subsection does not prohibit an additional control device that may be used to operate brakes on a towed vehicle. A vehicle that tows another vehicle as a commodity when at least one set of the towed vehicle's wheels is on the roadway is not required to comply with this requirement unless the brakes on the towing and towed vehicles are designed to be operated by a single control on the towing vehicle.

TC 547.403 Service Brakes Required

(a) A vehicle required to have brakes by this subchapter, other than a motorcycle or moped, shall be equipped with parking brakes adequate to hold the vehicle: (1) on any grade on which the vehicle is operated; (2) under all loading conditions; and (3) on a surface free from snow, ice, or loose material.

TC 547.404 Parking Brakes Required

(b) The parking brakes shall be: (1) designed to operate continuously as required once applied, despite a leakage or an exhaustion of power source; and (2) activated by the vehicle operator's muscular effort, by spring action, or by equivalent means. (c) The parking brakes may be assisted by the service brakes or by another power source, unless a failure in the power source would prevent the parking brakes from operating as required by this section. (d) The same brake drums, brake shoes and lining assemblies, brake shoe anchors, and mechanical brake shoe actuation mechanism normally associated with wheel brake assemblies may be used for the parking brakes and service brakes. (e) If the means of applying the parking brakes and service brakes are connected, the brake system shall be constructed so that the failure of one part will not cause the vehicle to be without operative brakes.

TC 547.404 Parking Brakes Required

(d) A trailer, semitrailer, or pole trailer that is equipped with air or vacuum brakes or that has a gross weight heavier than 4,500 pounds shall be equipped with brakes that: (1) operate on all wheels required to have brakes under Section 547.402 ; and (2) are promptly applied automatically and remain applied for at least 15 minutes in case of a breakaway from the towing vehicle.

TC 547.405 Breakaway Device Required

•Motor vehicles must be equipped with a horn audible at a distance of 200 feet •May not be equipped with, and a person may not use, a siren, whistle, or bell unless it is: •Part of an anti-theft device on a commercial vehicle, or •on an authorized emergency vehicle •Horn may only be used when necessary. •Horn may not emit an unreasonable loud or harsh sound or a whistle

TC 547.501 Audible Warning Devices

(a) Except as provided by Subsection (b), a person who operates, outside an urban district or on a divided highway, a truck, bus, or truck-tractor or a motor vehicle towing a house trailer shall carry in the vehicle: (1) at daytime: (A) at least two red flags at least 12 inches square; and (B) standards to support the flags; and (2) at nighttime: (A) at least three flares and at least three red-burning fusees; (B) at least three red electric lanterns; or (C) at least three portable red emergency reflectors.

TC 547.502 Visible Warning Devices Required

(b) A person who operates an explosive cargo vehicle at nighttime: (1) shall carry in the vehicle three red electric lanterns or three portable red emergency reflectors; and (2) may not carry in the vehicle a flare, fusee, or signal produced by flame. (c) A flare, electric lantern, or portable reflector must be visible and distinguishable at a distance of at least 600 feet at night under normal atmospheric conditions. (d) A portable reflector unit must be designed and constructed to reflect a red light clearly visible at all distances from 100 to 600 feet under normal atmospheric conditions at night when directly in front of lawful lower beams of headlamps. (e) A flare, fusee, electric lantern, portable reflector, or warning flag must be a type approved by the department.

TC 547.502 Visible Warning Devices Required

•A truck, bus, and trailers at least 80 inches wide or 30 feet long stopped on the roadway or shoulder shall display hazard lamps unless; •is parked in urban district or receiving or discharging passengers •is stopped to avoid conflict with other traffic •or comply with a police officer or •an official traffic control device or •Displays other warning devices (reflectors, flares, etc).

TC 547.503 Display of Hazard Lamps

•Texas Department of Transportation may not register a golf cart for operation on a public highway regardless of whether any alteration has been made to the golf cart. -the department may issue license plates for golf cart only as authorized by Section 504.510.

TC 551.402 Registration Not Authorized

(a) Unless sufficient light exists to reveal a person or vehicle at a distance of 1,000 feet, the operator of a vehicle described by Section 547.503(b) or an explosive cargo vehicle shall display warning devices that comply with the requirements of Section 547.502 : (1) when lighted lamps are required; and (2) under the conditions stated in this section.

TC 547.504 Display of Devices When Lighted Lamps Required

(b) Except as provided by Section 547.506 and Subsection (d) , the operator of a vehicle described by Section 547.503(b) or an explosive cargo vehicle that is disabled, or stopped for more than 10 minutes, on a roadway outside an urban district shall: (1) immediately place a lighted red electric lantern or a portable red emergency reflector at the traffic side of the vehicle in the direction of the nearest approaching traffic; and (2) place in the following order and as soon as practicable within 15 minutes one lighted red electric lamp or portable red emergency reflector: (A) in the center of the lane occupied by the vehicle toward approaching traffic approximately 100 feet from the vehicle; and (B) in the center of the lane occupied by the vehicle in the opposite direction approximately 100 feet from the vehicle.

TC 547.504 Display of Devices When Lighted Lamps Required

(c) Except as provided by Section 547.506 and Subsection (d) , the operator of a vehicle described by Section 547.503(b) or an explosive cargo vehicle that is disabled, or stopped for more than 10 minutes, on a roadway of a divided highway shall place the warning devices described by Subsection (b): (1) in the center of the lane occupied by the vehicle toward approaching traffic approximately 200 feet from the vehicle; (2) in the center of the lane occupied by the vehicle toward approaching traffic approximately 100 feet from the vehicle; and (3) at the traffic side approximately 10 feet from the vehicle in the direction of the nearest approaching traffic.

TC 547.504 Display of Devices When Lighted Lamps Required

(d) As an alternative to the use of electric lamps or red reflectors and except as provided by Subsection (e), the operator of a vehicle described by Section 547.503(b) may display a lighted fusee to comply with the requirements of Subsection (b)(1) or liquid-burning flares to comply with the requirements of Subsections (b)(2) and (c). If the operator uses liquid-burning flares to comply with Subsection (b)(2), the operator shall also, after complying with Subsection (b)(2)(B), place a liquid-burning flare at the traffic side of the vehicle at least 10 feet in the direction of the nearest approaching traffic. If a fusee is used to comply with Subsection (b)(1), the operator shall comply with Subsection (b)(2) within the burning period of the fusee. (e) The operator of an explosive cargo vehicle may not display as a warning device a flare, fusee, or signal produced by flame.

TC 547.504 Display of Devices When Lighted Lamps Required

(a) The operator of a vehicle described by Section 547.503(b) or an explosive cargo vehicle that is disabled, or stopped for more than 10 minutes, on a roadway outside an urban district or on a roadway of a divided highway when lighted lamps are not required shall display two red flags that comply with Section 547.502 . (b) If traffic on the roadway moves in two directions, one flag shall be placed approximately 100 feet to the rear and one approximately 100 feet ahead of the vehicle in the center of the lane occupied by the vehicle. (c) If traffic on the roadway moves in one direction, one flag shall be placed approximately 100 feet and one approximately 200 feet to the rear of the vehicle in the center of the lane occupied by the vehicle.

TC 547.505 Display of Devices When Lighted Lamps are not Required

If a vehicle is required to be inspected then it is required to have front safety belts if they were originally equipped in the vehicle by the manufacturer.

TC 547.601 Safety Belts Required

Motor vehicles are required to have at least one mirror that will reflect a view of the highway to the operator of at least 200 feet to the rear.

TC 547.602 Mirrors Required

Motor vehicles shall be equipped with windshield wipers and they shall be maintained in good working condition.

TC 547.603 Windshield Wipers Required

•A motor vehicle shall be equipped with a muffler in good working condition that operates to prevent excessive or unusual noise. •Muffler cutouts and bypasses are prohibited.

TC 547.604 Muffler Required

•Engine and power mechanism shall be equipped and adjusted to prevent the escape of excessive smoke or fumes. •After 1967 shall be equipped to prevent discharge of crankcase emissions •After 1967 If equipped with an exhaust emissions system shall: -maintain in good working condition -shall use system when its operated; and -may not remove all or part of system unless installing another

TC 547.605 Emissions System Required

•Except when travel conditions require the downshifting or use of lower gears to maintain reasonable momentum, person commits offense if operates or as an owner knowingly permits another person to operate, a vehicle that emits: -visible smoke for 10 seconds or longer; or -visible smoke that remains suspended in the air for 10 seconds or longer before fully dissipating •Punishable by fine not less than $1 or more than $350 for each violation •If prior conviction by fine not less than $200 or more than $1000 for each violation.

TC 547.605 Emissions System Required

•A road tractor, truck, trailer, truck-tractor in combination with semitrailer, or semitrailer in combination with a towing vehicle that has at least 4 tires or at least 2 super singles tires on the rearmost axle of the vehicle or rearmost vehicle in combination shall be equipped with safety guards or flaps that: -type prescribed by department; and are located and suspended behind rearmost vehicle or rearmost combination within 8 inches of surface •not apply truck tractor alone or pole trailer.

TC 547.606 Safety Guards or Flaps Required

•A sun screening device must have a label that: -is legible; -contains information required by department on light transmission and luminous reflectance of the device; -If device is placed or attached to windshield or side or rear window, states the light transmission of device is consistent with 547.613(b)(1) or (2); -and is permanently installed between material and surface which its applied to.

TC 547.609 Required Label for Sun screening Devices

(b) A county or municipality may prohibit the operation of a motor-assisted scooter on a street, highway, or sidewalk if the governing body of the county or municipality determines that the prohibition is necessary in the interest of safety. (c) The department may prohibit the operation of a motor-assisted scooter on a highway if it determines that the prohibition is necessary in the interest of safety.

TC 551.352 Operation on Roadways or Sidewalks

•May be equipped with a television, a digital video disc player, a videocassette player, or similar equipment; but only if the video display is not visible to driver, unless •The vehicle is in park, or parking brake is applied •a law enforcement vehicle •TV station vehicle •or a mobile navigation screen. •exclusively for receiving digital information for commercial purposes •exclusively for monitoring the performance of equipment installed on a vehicle used for safety purposes in connection with the operations of a natural gas, water, or electric utility •a monitoring device that: (A) produces an electronic display; and (B) is used exclusively in conjunction with a mobile navigation system installed in the vehicle.

TC 547.611 Use of Certain Video Equipment and Television Receivers

•May not attach to windshield, side or rear window an object or material that obstructs or reduces operators clear view or •a person or installer places a material that alters the color or reduces the light transmission. •Does not apply to; •a windshield that has a sunscreening device that; •in combination with the windshield has light transmission of 25% or more ; and •a luminous reflectance of 25% or less; and •is not red, blue or amber; and •does not extend beyond the AS-1 line or more than 5 inches from the top of the windshield. •There is no limit for a rear window if the vehicle is equipped with an outside mirror on each side of the vehicle. •There is no limit for a side window that is to the rear of the operator. •It is a defense to prosecution for medical reasons if the person has to be shielded from direct rays of the sun.

TC 547.613 Restrictions on Windows

•Feature installed by manufacturer in motor vehicle for the purpose of retrieving information from the vehicle after an accident in which it was involved: -records speed and direction its traveling; -records vehicle location data; -records steering performance; -records brake performance, incl. if brakes were applied before the accident; -records driver's safety belt status; or -transmits info about accident to central communications system when accident occurs.

TC 547.615 Recording Devices

(a) A motorcycle or moped that is designed to carry more than one person must be equipped with footrests and handholds for use by the passenger. (b) This section does not apply to an autocycle as defined by Section 501.008 or a motorcycle as defined by Section 521.001(a)(6-a) .

TC 547.617 Motorcycle Footrests and Handholds Required

•A school bus may be equipped with: -rooftop warning lamps that conform to and are placed on bus in accordance with section 34.002, Education Code; and that are operated under rules adopted by the school district; and -moveable stop arms that conform to regulations under section 34.002, Education Code; and that may only be operated when bus is stopped to load or unload students.

TC 547.701 Additional equipment requirements for school buses and other buses used to transport school children

•A school bus shall be equipped with: -convex mirror or other device that reflects to school bus operator a clear view of area immediately in front of vehicle otherwise hidden; -signal lamps mounted as high and as widely spaced laterally as practicable; -display 4 alternately flashing red lights, 2 on front at same level and 2 on rear at same level; -emit light visible 500 feet in normal sunlight.

TC 547.701 Additional equipment requirements for school buses and other buses used to transport school children

•May not be painted National School Bus Glossy Yellow

TC 547.7012 Requirements for Multifunction School Activity Buses

•May be equipped with siren, exhaust whistle, or bell: -Approved by department; and -Audible for at least 500 foot distance •Shall use siren, whistle, or bell when necessary to warn of approach of emergency vehicle •Shall be equipped with signal lamps that: -Mounted as high and wide as practicable; -Display 4 alternately flashing red lights, 2 on front same level and 2 on rear same level; and -visible at distance of 500 feet

TC 547.702 Additional equipment Requirements for Authorized Emergency Vehicles

•Not apply to construction or maintenance work vehicle travelling in construction area •Towed unit is not required to display emblem if not obstructed on tow unit •Golf cart operated speed no more than 25 mph is required to display emblem.

TC 547.703 Additional Equipment Requirements for Slow-Moving Vehicles

•Shall display a slow-moving-vehicle emblem that: -reflective surface clearly visible min. 500 feet -Mounted base down on rear at height of 3 to 5 feet above the road; and -Maintained in a clean, reflective condition.

TC 547.703 Additional Equipment Requirements for Slow-Moving Vehicles

•Motorcycles shall be equipped with not more than two headlamps mounted 24 to 54 inches; •at least one taillamp mounted 20 to 72 inches; •a rear license plate light; •At least one stoplamp and red reflector; •A motorcycle, other than a motor-driven cycle, must have high/low beam lamps. •Motorcycle must have a headlamp on at all times during operation unless it was manufactured before 1975.

TC 547.801 Lighting Equipment

•Self-propelled or towed vehicle, other than a farm vehicle with gross weight, registered weight, or gross weight rating less than 48000 lbs, to transport passengers or cargo if: -vehicle, incl. school activity bus, or combination of vehicles has gross weight, registered weight, or gross weight rating more than 26000 lbs; -vehicle, incl. school activity bus, is designed or used to transport more than 15 passengers incl. driver; or -transport hazardous material requiring placarding

TC 548.001 Commercial Motor Vehicle

•A motor vehicle, trailer, semi-trailer, pole trailer, or mobile home, registered in this state, must have following items inspected; •tires, wheel assembly, mud flaps, brakes, steering, lights, horn, mirrors, windshield wipers, sunscreen, front safety belts, exhaust, emission systems, and gas cap. •Moped only on brakes, headlamps, rear lamps, and reflectors.

TC 548.051 Vehicles and Equipment Subject to Inspection

(d) A person may operate a motor-assisted scooter on a path set aside for the exclusive operation of bicycles or on a sidewalk. Except as otherwise provided by this section, a provision of this title applicable to the operation of a bicycle applies to the operation of a motor-assisted scooter. (e) A provision of this title applicable to a motor vehicle does not apply to a motor-assisted scooter.

TC 551.352 Operation on Roadways or Sidewalks

This subchapter may not be construed to authorize the operation of a pocket bike or minimotorbike on any: (1) highway, road, or street; (2) path set aside for the exclusive operation of bicycles; or (3) sidewalk.

TC 551.353 APPLICATION OF SUBCHAPTER TO POCKET BIKE OR MINIMOTORBIKE.

This chapter does not apply to: •Trailer, semitrailer, pole trailer, or mobile home moving under or bearing current factory-delivery license plate or current in-transit license plate •Paper dealer in-transit tag, machinery, disaster, or parade license, prorate tab, one-time permit, vehicle temporary transit permit, antique, custom vehicle, or street rod license, temp. 24 hr permit, or permit license •Trailer, semitrailer, pole trailer, or mobile home with actual gross or registered gross weight of 4500 lbs or less; •Farm machinery, road-building equipment, a farm trailer, or a vehicle required to display a slow-moving-vehicle emblem; •A former military vehicle; •A vehicle qualified for tax exemption; or •Vehicle for which a certificate of title has been issued but that is not required to be registered

TC 548.052 Vehicles not subject to Inspection

This chapter applies to a person operating: a bicycle on: •A highway; or •A path set aside for bicycles.

TC 551.001 Persons Affected

Applies to a moped and an electric bicycle unless a provision by nature cannot apply.

TC 551.002 Moped Included

•A person operating a bicycle has the rights and duties applicable to a driver operating a vehicle, unless: •a provision alters a right or duty; or •by nature the law cannot apply. •A parent or guardian of a child may not knowingly permit the child to violate this subtitle.

TC 551.101 Right and Duties

•An operator must ride on a permanent and regular seat. •May not carry more persons than it is designed to carry. •May not carry an object that prevents the person from operating the bicycle with at least one hand on the handlebars. •No bicycle, coaster, sled, toy vehicle, or person using roller skates may not cling to a streetcar or vehicle on a roadway.

TC 551.102 General Operation

•A bicycle on a roadway that is moving slower than other traffic must ride near the right curb or edge of the roadway, unless: •Passing, preparing to turn left, or avoiding an obstruction in road. •May ride near the left curb on one-way street. •May ride two abreast in a single lane if not impeding traffic.

TC 551.103 Operation on Roadway

•Must have a working brake. •At nighttime must be equipped with; •a white headlamp in front visible for 500 feet; and •a red reflector on rear visible from 50 to 300 feet; or •May use a red lamp on rear but it is not required.

TC 551.104 Safety Equipment

•Means a two non-tandem wheeled device designed for transporting one person that is: -self balancing; and -propelled by an electric propulsion system with an average power of 750 watts or one horsepower

TC 551.201 Electric Personal Assistive Mobility Device

•May operate an electric personal assistive mobility device on a residential street, roadway, or public highway with a speed limit of 30 mph or less only: -while making direct crossing in marked or unmarked crosswalk; -where no sidewalk is available; or -directed by traffic control device or law officer •May operate on a path set aside for exclusively for bicycles •Shall ride close as practicable right-hand edge •Must follow bicycle rules unless stated here

TC 551.202 Operation on Roadway

•May operate an electric personal assistive mobility device on sidewalk

TC 551.203 Sidewalks

•A vehicle that can attain a maximum speed of 35 mph on a paved level surface and otherwise complies with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 500 (49 C.F.R. Section 571.500

TC 551.301 Neighborhood Electric Vehicles

•Texas Department of Motor Vehicles may adopt rules relating to registration and issuance of license plates to neighborhood electric vehicles

TC 551.302 Registration

•May only operate on street or highway with 45 mph limit or less •May cross road or street at an intersection where limit is more than 45 mph •May not operate on street or highway at a speed that exceeds the lesser of: -The posted speed limit; or -35 miles per hour •County or municipality may prohibit the operation of neighborhood electric vehicle on street or highway in interest of safety

TC 551.303 Operation on Roadways

(a) An operator may operate a neighborhood electric vehicle: (1) in a master planned community: (A) that has in place a uniform set of restrictive covenants; and (B) for which a county or municipality has approved a plat; (2) on a public or private beach; or (3) on a public highway for which the posted speed limit is not more than 35 miles per hour, if the neighborhood electric vehicle is operated: (A) during the daytime; and (B) not more than two miles from the location where the neighborhood electric vehicle is usually parked and for transportation to or from a golf course. (b) A person is not required to register a neighborhood electric vehicle operated in compliance with this section.

TC 551.304 LIMITED OPERATION.

•A Motor Assisted Scooter can be legally operated: •On a street having a speed limit of 35mph or less, •On a street with higher limit if crossing the street, •On a path designated for the exclusive use of bicycles, •On a sidewalk. •Citations CANNOT be issued for: •No drivers license, No insurance, registration or inspection violations, or for no helmet.

TC 551.351 Motor Assisted Scooter

•A county or municipality may prohibit the operation of a motor-assisted scooter on a street, highway or sidewalk if the governing body determines it is necessary in the interest of safety. •The Department may prohibit the operation of a motor-assisted scooter on a highway if it determines it is necessary in the interest of safety.

TC 551.351 Motor Assisted Scooter

•At least two wheels in contact with the ground, •Has a braking system, •Has a gas motor of 40cc or less OR an electric motor, •Has a deck for the operator to stand or sit while operating the vehicle, •And has the ability to be operated by human power alone. •Does NOT include a "Pocket Bike" or "Minimotorbike"

TC 551.351 Motor Assisted Scooter

(a) A motor-assisted scooter may be operated only on a street or highway for which the posted speed limit is 35 miles per hour or less. The motor-assisted scooter may cross a road or street at an intersection where the road or street has a posted speed limit of more than 35 miles per hour.

TC 551.352 Operation on Roadways or Sidewalks

•In a master planned community: -That has in place a uniform set of restrictive covenants; and -For which a county or municipality has approved a plat; •On a public beach; or •On a public highway for which the posted speed limit is not more than 35 mph, if operated: -during daytime; and -not more than 2 miles from usual parking place and for transportation to/from a golf course

TC 551.403 Limited Operation

•Municipality may allow operation of golf cart on all or part of public highway that: -In corporate boundaries of the municipality; and -Has posted speed limit not more than 35 mph. •Golf cart must have following equipment: -headlamps; -taillamps; -reflectors; -parking brake; and -mirrors

TC 551.404 Operation in Municipalities

•May cross intersections, incl. a road or street that has a posted speed limit of more than 35 mph

TC 551.405 Crossing Certain Roadways

•Traffic control signals (red, yellow, and green) apply to pedestrians unless: •A pedestrian control signal is present. •A pedestrian facing a steady red or yellow signal may not enter a roadway.

TC 552.001 Traffic Control Signals

•"Walk" - A pedestrian has the right of way and may cross the roadway in the direction of the signal. •"Don't Walk" - A pedestrian may not enter the roadway. •If the "Don't Walk" signal is displayed while a pedestrian has partially crossed the roadway then the pedestrian must proceed to a sidewalk or stop at the center median until the "Walk" signal is displayed.

TC 552.002 Pedestrian Right-Of-Way if Control Signal Present

•A vehicle shall yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian in a crosswalk if: •there is no traffic control signal present and the pedestrian is; •on the half of the roadway where the vehicle is traveling; or •approaching so closely from the opposite half of the roadway as to be in danger. •A pedestrian may not leave the curb in the path of a vehicle so close that the vehicle cannot yield or stop.

TC 552.003 Pedestrian Right-Of-Way at Crosswalk

•A pedestrian must walk on the right half of the crosswalk if possible.

TC 552.004 Pedestrian to Keep to Right

•A pedestrian shall yield the right of way to a vehicle on the highway if crossing a roadway at a place: •other than a crosswalk at an intersection; or •where tunnel or overhead has been provided. •If traffic control signals are present, may cross only in a crosswalk. •A pedestrian may cross a roadway intersection diagonally if authorized by a traffic control device.

TC 552.005 Crossing At Point Other Than Crosswalk

•A pedestrian may not walk in the roadway if a sidewalk is provided. •Must walk facing oncoming traffic while along or on a highway if there is no sidewalk. •Vehicles emerging from or entering an alley, building, or private road or driveway shall yield to a pedestrian on sidewalk.

TC 552.006 Use of Sidewalk

•A person may NOT stand in a roadway to: •Solicit a ride, contribution, employment, or business from a vehicle, except: •May solicit a charitable contribution if authorized by local authority •May not stand in the road to watch or guard a vehicle

TC 552.007 Solicitation by Pedestrians

•The operator of a vehicle shall: •exercise due care to avoid colliding with a pedestrian on a roadway; •honk horn when necessary; and •exercise proper precaution on observing a child or an obviously confused or incapacitated person on a roadway.

TC 552.008 Drivers to Exercise Due Care

•No person may carry a white cane on a public street or highway unless totally or partially blind. •Driver approaching intersection or crosswalk where pedestrian guided by assistance animal or carrying white cane is crossing or attempting to cross shall take necessary precautions to avoid injuring or endangering the pedestrian. Shall bring vehicle to a full stop if injury or danger can be avoided only by that action. •shown on trial, as result of this offense collision occurred & caused serious bodily injury or death to blind person, its misdemeanor punishable by: •Fine not more than $500; and •30 hrs of community service to an organization or agency that primarily serves visually impaired or disabled persons, to be completed in not less than 6 months and not more than 1 year. •A portion of that community service shall include sensitivity training.

TC 552.010 Blind Pedestrians

(a) A person who drops or permits to be dropped or thrown on a highway destructive or injurious material shall immediately remove the material or cause it to be removed. (b) A person who removes a wrecked or damaged vehicle from a highway shall remove glass or another injurious substance dropped on the highway from the vehicle.

TC 600.001 Removing Material From Highway

•May not operate a vehicle in this state unless; •Financial responsibility is established through; •Liability insurance policy •Surety Bond •Specific deposits or •Self insurance

TC 601.051 Requirement of Financial Responsibility

•Former military vehicle or is at least 25 years old, •Is used for exhibitions, club activities, parades, and other functions of public interest and not for regular transportation; and •for which owner files with department an affidavit signed by owner stating it's a Collectors item; •Golf cart, •Volunteer Fire Dept. Vehicles.

TC 601.052 Exceptions to Financial Responsibility Requirements

•Must present upon demand or request of a peace officer; •Evidence of financial responsibility •On a form prescribed by the department •Also applies at accident scenes

TC 601.053 Evidence of Financial Responsibility

•May provide proof of insurance for; •Employees •Immediate family members •Or household

TC 601.054 Owner May Provide Evidence of Financial Responsibility for Others

•Insurance policy must be issued by insurance company that is authorized by this state to write policies; •Written for the benefit of the person named in the policy; •And must meet the requirements of this subchapter. •($20,000 for bodily injury or death of one person; $40,000 for bodily injury or death of two or more persons; $15,000 for damage to other vehicles and property.)

TC 601.071 Motor Vehicle Liability Insurance Requirements

(a) A motor vehicle liability insurance policy must state: (1) the name and address of the named insured; (2) the coverage provided under the policy; (3) the premium charged for the policy; (4) the policy period; and (5) the limits of liability. (b) The policy must contain an agreement or endorsement that the insurance coverage provided under the policy is: (1) provided in accordance with the coverage required by this chapter for bodily injury, death, and property damage; and (2) subject to this chapter. (c) The liability of the insurance company for the insurance required by this chapter becomes absolute at the time bodily injury, death, or damage covered by the policy occurs. The policy may not be canceled as to this liability by an agreement between the insurance company and the insured that is entered into after the occurrence of the injury or damage. A statement made by or on behalf of the insured or a violation of the policy does not void the policy.

TC 601.073 Required Policy Terms

(d) The policy may not require the insured to satisfy a judgment for bodily injury, death, or property damage as a condition precedent under the policy to the right or duty of the insurance company to make payment for the injury, death, or damage. (e) The insurance company may settle a claim covered by the policy. If the settlement is made in good faith, the amount of the settlement is deductible from the amounts specified in Section 601.072 . (f) The policy, any written application for the policy, and any rider or endorsement that does not conflict with this chapter constitute the entire contract between the parties. (g) Subsections (c)-(f) apply to the policy without regard to whether those provisions are stated in the policy.

TC 601.073 Required Policy Terms

•Liability insurance policy must contain the following: •Name of the insurer •Policy number and period •Name and address of each insured •Policy limits or statement of minimum compliance •Make and model of each covered vehicle

TC 601.081 Standard proof of Vehicle Liability Insurance Form

•May use two individual sureties(people) to provide real property •Free of tax lien •Not subject to homestead exemptions •Must be valued twice the amount of minimum requirements ($55,000) •Lien place on property by County Clerk

TC 601.121 Surety Bond

•May deposit $55,000 with comptroller •In cash or securities •Will be issued a certificate to verify deposit

TC 601.122 Deposit of Cash or Securities With Comptroller

•May deposit $55,000 in cash or cashiers check with the county judge •Judge will issue a certificate of deposit

TC 601.123 Deposit of Cash or Cashier's Check With County Judge

•Own more than 25 vehicles •Must prove you have and will continue to have the ability to pay judgements against you •Must apply with the department •Will be issued a certificate by the department •Pay judgement w/in 31 days or get canceled

TC 601.124 Self-Insurance

•Violation to operate a motor vehicle without financial responsibility •Fine $175 to $350 •Prior Conviction $350 to $1000 •Court may reduce fine

TC 601.191 Operation of Motor Vehicle in Violation of Motor Vehicle Liability Insurance Requirement; Offense

Defense to prosecution if insurance was in effect at the time of offense

TC 601.193 Defense: Financial Responsibility in Effect at Time of Alleged Offense

•Defense to prosecution •Operator had vehicle only for repair purposes only

TC 601.194 Defense: Possession of Motor vehicle for Maintenance or Repair

(a) In this section, "autocycle" means a motor vehicle, other than a tractor, that is: (1) designed to have when propelled not more than three wheels on the ground; (2) equipped with a steering wheel; (3) equipped with seating that does not require the operator to straddle or sit astride the seat; and (4) manufactured and certified to comply with federal safety requirements for a motorcycle. (b) For purposes of this chapter, an autocycle is considered to be a motorcycle.

TC 661.0015 Protective Headgear for Autocycle

A person commits an offense if the person: •operates or rides as a passenger on a motorcycle, on a public street or highway, and •is not wearing a helmet (DOT or SNELL approved) •Also a violation to carry a person not wearing a helmet

TC 661.003 Offenses Relating to Not Wearing Protective Headgear

•Exceptions: •At least 21 years old, and •Completed a motorcycle safety foundation course, or •Was covered by health insurance providing at least $10,000 in medical benefits while riding a motorcycle without a helmet. •Operator may purchase a sticker for $5 for each owned motorcycles if you apply for sticker. •Sticker is valid for 3 years •If sticker is visible it is presumed that all requirements are met for the driver and passenger.

TC 661.003 Offenses Relating to Not Wearing Protective Headgear

•The department shall provide a placard for a person with a disability. •Must be two sided with a hook and include on each side, •International symbol, 3 inches high and centered, •An ID number, •An expiration date at least 3 inches high and seal of the department.

TC 681.002 Disabled Parking Placard

(a) The applicant shall include on the application the applicant's: (1) driver's license number or the number of a personal identification card issued to the applicant under Chapter 521; (2) military identification number; or (3) driver's license number of a driver's license issued by another state or country if the applicant is not a resident of this state and is seeking medical treatment in this state.

TC 681.0031 Applicant's Identification

(b) The county assessor-collector shall record on any disabled parking placard issued to the applicant the following information in the following order: (1) the county number assigned by the comptroller to the county issuing the placard; (2) the first four digits of the applicant's driver's license number, personal identification card number, or military identification number; and (3) the applicant's initials.

TC 681.0031 Applicant's Identification

•In a dedicated handicapped parking area •May park for an unlimited time, if: •Transporting a person with a disability, if •Placards or handicap plates are exhibited •No fees for meters or public garages •May not park when prohibited

TC 681.006 Parking Privileges: Persons with Disabilities

(a) A vehicle may be parked for an unlimited period in a parking space or area that is designated specifically for persons with physical disabilities if the vehicle: (1) is being operated by or for the transportation of: (A) the person who registered the vehicle under Section 504.202(a) or a person described by Section 504.202(b) if the vehicle is registered under that subsection; and (B) displays special license plates issued under Section 504.202 ; or (2) displays license plates issued by another state of the United States that indicate on the face of the license plates that the owner or operator of the vehicle is a disabled veteran of the United States armed forces.

TC 681.008 Parking Privileges: Certain Veterans and Military Award Recipients

(a-1) A vehicle described by Subsection (a) may be parked for an unlimited period in a parking space or area that is designated specifically for persons with physical disabilities on the property of an institution of higher education, as defined by Section 61.003, Education Code , regardless of whether a permit is generally required for the use of the space or area. An institution of higher education may require a vehicle described by Subsection (a) to display a parking permit issued by the institution specifically for the purpose of implementing this subsection, but may not charge a fee for the permit. This subsection does not entitle a person to park a vehicle described by Subsection (a) in a parking space or area that has not been designated specifically for persons with physical disabilities on the property of the institution if the vehicle has not been granted or assigned a parking permit required by the institution.

TC 681.008 Parking Privileges: Certain Veterans and Military Award Recipients

(a-2) Subsection (a-1) does not apply to a parking space or area located in: (1) a controlled access parking facility if at least 50 percent of the number of parking spaces or areas designated specifically for persons with physical disabilities on the property of the institution of higher education are located outside a controlled access parking facility; (2) an area temporarily designated for special event parking; or (3) an area where parking is temporarily prohibited for health or safety concerns.

TC 681.008 Parking Privileges: Certain Veterans and Military Award Recipients

(b) A vehicle on which license plates described by Subsection (a)(2) or issued under Section 504.202 , 504.308 , 504.310 , 504.315 , 504.316 , or 504.319 are displayed is exempt from the payment of a parking fee collected through a parking meter charged by a governmental authority other than a branch of the federal government, when being operated by or for the transportation of: (1) the person who registered the vehicle under Section 504.202(a), 504.308, 504.310, 504.315, 504.316, or 504.319 ; (2) a person described in Section 504.202(b) if the vehicle is registered under that subsection; or (3) the owner or operator of a vehicle displaying license plates described by Subsection (a)(2).

TC 681.008 Parking Privileges: Certain Veterans and Military Award Recipients

(c) This section does not permit a vehicle to be parked at a time when or a place where parking is prohibited. (d) A governmental unit may provide by ordinance or order that the exemption provided by Subsection (b) also applies to payment of a fee or penalty imposed by the governmental unit for parking in a parking garage or lot or in a space with a limitation on the length of time for parking.

TC 681.008 Parking Privileges: Certain Veterans and Military Award Recipients

•A peace officer or person designated by a political subdivision may enforce parking regulations •Commissioned security guards employed by the owner of the property

TC 681.010 Enforcement

Person commits an offense if: (a) they manufacture, sell, or possesses a placard that is deceptively similar to a disabled parking placard; or alters a genuine disabled parking placard. (b) knowingly parks a vehicle displaying a counterfeit placard in a handicap parking space. •an offense under section (a) is a Class A misdemeanor. •an offense under section (b) is a Class C misdemeanor.

TC 681.011 Manufacture, Sale, Possession, or use of Counterfeit Placard

Violation to: •(a)Stands or Parks in designated spaces without displaying placards or tags •(c)To block a space or ramp •(d)Loan a placard to someone else & uses it in violation •Presume that owner parked the car •Park if not being used for disabled •Offense can be enhanced

TC 681.011 Offenses; Presumption

(a)Law enforcement officer who believes offense under 681.011(a) or (d) has occurred in officer presence shall seize any disabled parking placard involved . •Not later than 48hrs after seizure, officer shall determine whether probable cause existed to believe the offense was committed. •If no offense shall promptly return placard •If offense, no later than the 5th day after the date of the seizure, shall submit each seized placard to the department.

TC 681.012 Seizure and Revocation of Placard

(a-1)Peace officer determines by inspecting the person's DL or ID certificate that disabled placard does not contain first 4 digits of the DL # or ID certificate # and the initials of: -The person operating the vehicle; -The applicant on behalf of a person being transported by the vehicle; or -A person being transported by the vehicle.

TC 681.012 Seizure and Revocation of Placard

Considered abandoned if: •Is inoperable, more than 5 years old and left unattended on public property for more than 48 hours •Remained illegally parked on public property for more than 48 hours •On private property without owner's permission for more than 48 hours •Left unattended on any highway for more than 48 hours •Left unattended for more than 24 hours on any turnpike or controlled access highway •Or is considered abandoned motor vehicle under section 644.153(r) •A commercial motor vehicle that is impounded, and the administrative penalties have not been paid by the 11th day of impoundment.

TC 683.002 Abandoned Motor Vehicle

•May impound any motor vehicle, aircraft, watercraft, or outboard motor found on public or private property. •May use any means or equipment necessary.

TC 683.011 Authority to Take Abandoned Motor Vehicle into Custody

Notice by publication: •Must be published in the same period that is required for notice by certified mail and contain all of the same information, and •May contain a list of more than one abandoned motor vehicle, watercraft, or outboard motor. •A law enforcement agency is not required to send a notice if the agency has received notice from a vehicle storage facility that an application has or will be submitted to the department for disposal of the vehicle.

TC 683.012 Taking Abandoned Motor Vehicle into Custody; Notice

The notice must: •be sent by certified mail not later than the 10th day the agency takes the motor vehicle, aircraft, watercraft, or outboard motor into custody, •specify the year, make, model, and identification number, •Give the location of the facility where the item is being held, •Inform the owner and lienholder of the right to claim the item not later that the 20th day after the date of the notice after paying towing and storage fees,

TC 683.012 Taking Abandoned Motor Vehicle into Custody; Notice

•A law enforcement agency shall send notice of abandonment to •The last known registered owner of each motor vehicle, aircraft, watercraft, or outboard motor taken into custody, and •Each lienholder recorded on the registration.

TC 683.012 Taking Abandoned Motor Vehicle into Custody; Notice

•Notice by publication in one newspaper of general circulation in the area where the motor vehicle, aircraft, watercraft, or outboard motor was abandoned is sufficient notice if: •The identity of the last registered owner cannot be determined, •The registration has no address for the owner, or •The determination with reasonable certainty of the identity and address of all lienholders is impossible.

TC 683.012 Taking Abandoned Motor Vehicle into Custody; Notice

•State that failure of the owner or lienholder to claim the item is: •A waiver by that person of all right, title and interest in the item, and •Consent to sale of the item at a public auction.

TC 683.012 Taking Abandoned Motor Vehicle into Custody; Notice

•A law enforcement agency, or the agent of a law enforcement agency, that takes into custody an abandoned motor vehicle, aircraft, watercraft, or outboard motor is entitled to reasonable storage fees: (1) For not more than 10 days, from the time taken into custody until the time notice is required to be sent, and (2) Beginning on the day after the day the agency mails notice and ending on the day accrued charges are paid and the item is removed.

TC 683.013 Storage Fees

•If unit of farm equipment or implement of husbandry is towed by a farm tractor and towed object or its load extends more than 4 feet to the rear of tractor or obscures a light on tractor, the towed object shall be equipped with at least 2 rear reflectors that are: -visible 100-600 feet -mounted to indicate, nearly as practicable, the extreme width of vehicle or combination •Front amber reflector same with same requirements if extends more than 4 feet to the left of the centerline of the tractor

TC547.372 Lighting Requirements for Combination Vehicles

•Motor Vehicle •Designed, Used, or Maintained •Primarily to transport property

Truck

•Highway or portion of a highway on which •Vehicular travel is given preferential right of way and •All intersecting streets must Yield the Right of Way in compliance with Official Traffic Control Device (TC 542.202(b)(2))

Through Highway

•Non-motorized vehicle •Designed to be towed by motor vehicle •Temporary human habitation including camping or seasonal use •Single chassis and may contain one or more life support systems •NOT used for transporting property for hire or distribution by private carrier

Towable Recreational Vehicle

•Pedestrians, ridden or herded animals, and conveyances •Includes vehicles and streetcars, singly or together while using a highway for the purposes of travel (TC 541.301)

Traffic

•A manual, electric, or mechanical device, •That alternately directs traffic to stop and to proceed.

Traffic Control Signal

•Vehicle •Other than pole trailer with or without motive power •Drawn by motor vehicle to transport persons or property •Constructed so no part of its weight and load rests on the pulling vehicle (ex: bumper-hitch pull)

Trailer

•An vehicle for type licensed, and •Any lesser type •Other than motorcycle or moped •Class M is not required to operate an autocycle

Type of Vehicle Authorized

•Adjacent to and including highway •Not located in a municipality •Used for business, industry or dwelling houses •Intervals of less than 100' for at least 1/4 mile on either side of the highway

Urban District

•Transport or draw persons or property on a highway, •"NOT" exclusively used on stationary rails.

Vehicle

TC 521.042 Accident and Conviction Reports; Individual Records (d) Before issuing or renewing a license, the department shall examine the record of the applicant for information relating to a conviction of a traffic violation or involvement in a traffic ___________. The department may not issue or ___________ a license if the department determines that the issuance or renewal of the license would be inimical to the public safety. (e) The director may maintain records required under this subchapter on microfilm or computer.

accident; renew

TC 542.006 Speed Restrictions on Private Roads Owners of a majority private property where it is unincorporated may petition the Texas Transportation Commission to regulate the speed restrictions on the ___________ roadways. •If commission agrees to regulate speed this becomes a public highway for the purpose of sign postage and enforcement.

adjacent

15 passenger van

bus

TC 544.013 Changeable Message Sign System (a) In this section, "__________ _________ ________" means a sign that conforms to the manual and specifications adopted under Section 544.001 . The term includes a dynamic message sign. (b) The Texas Department of Transportation in cooperation with local governments shall actively manage a system of changeable message signs located on highways under the jurisdiction of the department to mitigate traffic congestion by providing current information to the traveling public, including information about traffic incidents, weather conditions, road construction, and alternative routes when applicable.

changeable message sign

TC 521.060 Emergency Contact and Medical Information Database •The record is ____________ and only disclosed to peace officer •Only if peace officer is authorized to obtain that info, and •Only for purpose , as applicable, of making contact with named individual to report injury or death of holder of DL or ID •Any other medical info needed at time

confidential

TC 521.060 Emergency Contact and Medical Information Database Department shall maintain in its files a record of name, address, phone # a holder of DL or ID which they authorized in event of injury or _________ from accident or emergency situation. •Also any medical information it is provided, or •Any __________ condition information its voluntarily provided

death; health

"_________ _________" means that it is not genuine, but a reasonable person would presume that it is.

deceptively similar

TRC 521.026Dismissal of Expired License Charge (a) A judge may ____________ a charge of driving with an expired license if the defendant remedies this defect within _______ working days or before the defendant's first court appearance date, whichever is later. (b) The judge may assess the defendant an administrative fee not to exceed $20 when the charge of driving with an expired driver's license is dismissed under Subsection (a).

dismiss; 20

TC 542.302 Offense by Person Owning or Controlling Vehicle A person who owns a vehicle, or __________ or directs the operator of a vehicle, commits the offense if the person requires or knowingly permits the operator of the vehicle to ___________ the vehicle in a manner that violates law.

employs; operate

TC 521.028 Effect of Military Service on License Requirement (b) A person on active duty in the armed forces of the United States who has in the person's possession a license issued in a __________ country by the armed forces of the United States may operate a motor vehicle in this state for a period of not more than ______ days after the date on which the person returns to the United States.

foreign; 90

A motor vehicle designed by the manufacturer primarily for the use on a golf course

golf cart

Illegal to stand or park in front of

public or private driveway

TC 521.028 Effect of Military Service on License Requirement (a) Unless the license is suspended, canceled, or _____________ as provided by law, a driver's license issued by this state that is held by a person who is on active duty in the armed forces of the United States and is absent from this state, notwithstanding the expiration date of the license, remains valid while the person is absent from this state. If the person is honorably discharged from active duty, the license remains valid until the earlier of: (1) the _________ day after the date of the discharge; or (2) the date on which the person returns to this state.

revoked; 91st

TC 542.003 Animals and Animal Drawn Vehicles A person riding an animal on a _____________ or operating a vehicle drawn by an animal on a roadway has the rights and duties applicable to the operator of a vehicle, except when it could not apply.

roadway

TC 521.250 Court Order in Operator's Possession A person who is issued an occupational license ________ have in the person's possession a certified copy of the court order granting the license while operating a motor vehicle. The person shall allow a peace officer to examine the order on _________.

shall; request

White on a red placard for a ___________ disabled person

temporarily

TC 545.066 Passing a School Bus; Offense

•1st offense MD $500-$1250 •2nd conv w/in 5 yrs MD $1000-$2000 •MDA if causes SBI to another or •SJF if person has prev conv & causing SBI to another •May suspend license

Concepts for stopping Motorcycle Operators

•Be sure that the reason for the stop is a violation of the law and not due to stereotype. •Follow the 7-step violator contact protocol, but have the violator remain on their motorcycle with the kickstand up. (This keeps the operator occupied with balancing the motorcycle and reduces the possibility of attempting anything with the officer.) •Remain professional and deal with the violation and not the appearance of the operator or perceived prejudices or attitudes.

Vehicles not issued registration

•Certain off-highway vehicles •Manufactured housing •Certain farm vehicles •Vehicles Operated by Certain Non-Residents • Certain farm vehicles •COMMERCIAL FARM MOTOR VEHICLE

TC 545.4251 USE OF PORTABLE WIRELESS COMMUNICATION DEVICE FOR ELECTRONIC MESSAGING; OFFENSE

•Fine $25 - $99 •Previous Conviction: $100 - $200 Cause death or SBI: •Fine up to $4000 •Jail up to 1 year

TC 545.157 Passing Certain Vehicles

•Fine of $1 to $200, or •Fine of $500 if results in property damage, or •MDB if BI •If operator violates another section of TC or PC, may be prosecuted under either or both sections. (i.e. can be charged with this offense as well as DWI, etc)

TC 521.457 Driving While License Invalid

•MDC •MDB with prev conv •MDB if no financial responsibility •MDB if DL prev suspended for DWI •MDA At time of offense was operating the motor vehicle without financial responsibility & caused/at fault in a an accident resulting in SBI or death of another

TC 522.011 License or Permit Required; Offense

•Misdemeanor with maximum fine of $500, except •Maximum fine of $1000 if prev conv w/in last year

Common misconceptions and beliefs associated with the motorcycle operator:

•Sport bike riders are speeders that ride dangerously. •Bikers use narcotics, drink, cause trouble and probably have warrants. •Cruiser Class riders are the "station wagon" set of the motorcycle world. "Mom and Pop" riders who pose no threat. •Clubs that "fly their colors" are "outlaw bikers" that show disrespect to law enforcement officers. •Any biker not wearing a helmet is breaking the law. •Bikers are generally lower income to middle class laborers, juvenile delinquents, and troublemakers.