Bicyclists and riders of micromobility (scooters, skateboards, or other compact devices designed for personal mobility) have the rights and are subject to all of the duties and regulations applicable to drivers of motor vehicles. By obeying the laws and riding predictably, you make it easier for everyone to share the road.
Laws
For more information on laws regarding bicycles and micromobility observed in Austin, you can read Texas state transportation code and City of Austin code in further detail.
- On the road bicyclists and micromobility riders must obey the same traffic laws as motorists, unless directed otherwise by a police officer or traffic signals, street signs and facilities specific to bicycles and micromobility.
- Children ages 17 and under are required to wear a helmet when riding a bicycle or micromobility device.
- Riding a bicycle or micromobility device on a sidewalk is allowed, in a reasonable and prudent manner.
- Using a portable electronic device when operating a bicycle or micromobility device in motion is prohibited.
- Riding a bicycle or micromobility device with another rider or occupant is prohibited, unless the device has been designed to accommodate multiple riders.
- Parked bicycles and micromobility devices must not impede or obstruct pedestrian traffic on sidewalk paths.
- Parked bicycles and micromobility devices must not be attached to public or private property in a manner that may damage the property.
- Riders who cause injury to a person or damage to property to provide reasonable assistance and give their name and contact information.
- To be visible when riding at night, a bicycle must have (under Texas state law):
- A front white light visible from at least 500 feet in the front
- A red reflector or red light in the rear
Safety guidelines
With these guidelines, reduce your risk of collision or fines and help to show that bicycles and micromobility devices have a positive presence on Austin’s streets. Check out more bicycle safety tips (PDF) and scooter safety tips (PDF).
- Always ride with traffic, never against it, unless specifically allowed such as in bicycle contraflow lanes.
- Obey traffic signs and signals, and observe others’ right-of-way. Yield to pedestrians.
- Use hand signals to tell motorist and pedestrians what you intend to do.
- Don’t pass other vehicles within the same lane.
- Don't ride more than two abreast (side-by-side).
- Stay visible, predictable and assertive.
- Control speed on Austin’s trails, if devices are allowed.
Bike Smart, Austin
This short video provides a general overview on how to bike smart in and around Austin.
Enforcement of Parking in Bicycle Lanes
The City of Austin 3-1-1 system may be used to report parking in a travel lane or bicycle lane. The 3-1-1 system is generally best used for persistent and ongoing problems that require a more in-depth review and response. For a more immediate response for enforcement, citizens may call 3-1-1 and request ‘Police, Non-Emergency’ to report a vehicle blocking a travel lane/bicycle lane. Please note that for any citations to be issued, parking must be prohibited with posted signs; if signs are not present, report the issue to 3-1-1 so the Transportation Department can determine if additional signs should be placed. There are some older bicycle facilities in Austin where parking is still allowed in bicycle lanes where placing new signs will not be immediately feasible. Generally all new bicycle facilities have parking restricted.