By Hedija Spahalic
Dallas Morning News
https://www.dallasnews.com/
Angela Piazza / Staff Photographer
Have you ever wondered why Texans need a front license plate, but other states don’t? Or why people are allowed to ride in a truck bed?
Some drivers around the state may be unaware of certain laws unique to Texas or more heavily cited by Texas law enforcement.
Here’s a few to keep in mind next time you’re on the road:
Most people would agree riding in a truck bed can be dangerous, no matter the circumstance, and you may assume it’s illegal. However, under Texas Transportation Code 545.414, only people under the age of 18 are prohibited. A few exceptions to the rule exist, such as participating in a parade or hayride, transporting farm workers from one patch of land to another, driving on the beach and if the vehicle is the only vehicle owned by the household. If found to be in violation, the person driving the vehicle can receive a misdemeanor and a fine no less than $25 and no more than $200.
Move over, slow down
The “move over, slow down” law was created to protect roadside workers and first responders. Texas Transportation Code 545.157 requires drivers to either move over a lane or slow down to 20 miles below the posted speed limit when passing stopped emergency vehicles with active flashing lights. This includes ambulances, police cars, fire trucks, tow trucks and utility or TxDOT vehicles. Failure to comply with this law is a Class B misdemeanor and fines range from $500 to $2,000, depending on if injury occurs in the process.
“DPD’s traffic unit aggressively enforces these traffic laws for the ultimate goal of keeping Dallas’ community safe,” Dallas police officer Jonathan Maner said.
Don’t park like that
It is illegal for a car to park facing the wrong way on a two-lane public street in Texas. Under Texas Transportation Code 545.303, cars must park facing the same direction as traffic, and the right-hand wheels must be within 18 inches of the curb. Not complying poses a safety risk for both the driver and potential passengers. Violations can result in fines, with a maximum fine of $200.
Two-plate state
The Lone Star State requires all passenger vehicles to display a front and rear license plate under Texas Transportation Code 504.943. Failure to comply with this law is considered a Class C misdemeanor and can result in a fine up to $200. Vehicles that are exempt from this requirement include those that are part of a commercial fleet and government entities.
Windshield wipers
In Texas, any operating motor vehicle must have functioning windshield wipers in order to pass an inspection. It is illegal to not have them, according to Texas Transportation Code 547.603. . Windshield wipers are required in order to remove moisture, and they must be in good working condition, meaning without tears or skips when gliding on the glass.
This story, originally published in The Dallas Morning News, is reprinted as part of a collaborative partnership between The Dallas Morning News and Texas Metro News. The partnership seeks to boost coverage of Dallas’ communities of color, particularly in southern Dallas.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login