reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 545 - Operation and Movement of Vehicles › Subchapter I. Miscellaneous Rules › Section 545.4191. Person Riding in Trailer or Semitrailer Drawn by Truck, Road Tractor, or Truck Tractor

Sec. 545.4191.  PERSON RIDING IN TRAILER OR SEMITRAILER DRAWN BY TRUCK, ROAD TRACTOR, OR TRUCK TRACTOR.  (a)  A person may not operate a truck, road tractor, or truck tractor when another person occupies a trailer or semitrailer being drawn by the truck, road tractor, or truck tractor.
(b)  It is a defense to prosecution under this section that:
(1)  the person was operating or towing the vehicle:
(A)  in a parade or in an emergency;
(B)  to transport farmworkers from one field to another field on a farm-to-market road, ranch-to-market road, or county road outside a municipality;  or
(C)  in a hayride permitted by the governing body of or a law enforcement agency of each county or municipality in which the hayride will occur;
(2)  the person operating or towing the vehicle did not know that another person occupied the trailer or semitrailer;  or
(3)  the person occupying the trailer or semitrailer was in a part of the trailer or semitrailer designed for human habitation.
(c)  An offense under this section is a Class B misdemeanor.
Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 641, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 545 - Operation and Movement of Vehicles › Subchapter I. Miscellaneous Rules › Section 545.4205. Interference With Peace Officer Investigation of Highway Racing or Reckless Driving Exhibition; Criminal Offense

Sec. 545.4205.  INTERFERENCE WITH PEACE OFFICER INVESTIGATION OF HIGHWAY RACING OR RECKLESS DRIVING EXHIBITION; CRIMINAL OFFENSE.  (a)  A person commits an offense if the person uses the person's body, a car, or a barricade to knowingly impede or otherwise interfere with a peace officer's investigation of conduct prohibited under Section 545.420 or a reckless driving exhibition, as defined by Section 42.03, Penal Code.
(b)  An offense under this section is a Class B misdemeanor.
(c)  If conduct constituting an offense under this section also constitutes an offense under any other law, the actor may be prosecuted under this section, the other law, or both.
Added by Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 949 (S.B. 1495), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2021.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 545 - Operation and Movement of Vehicles › Subchapter I. Miscellaneous Rules › Section 545.421. Fleeing or Attempting to Elude Police Officer; Offense

Sec. 545.421.  FLEEING OR ATTEMPTING TO ELUDE POLICE OFFICER;  OFFENSE.  (a)  A person commits an offense if the person operates a motor vehicle and wilfully fails or refuses to bring the vehicle to a stop or flees, or attempts to elude, a pursuing police vehicle when given a visual or audible signal to bring the vehicle to a stop.
(b)  A signal under this section that is given by a police officer pursuing a vehicle may be by hand, voice, emergency light, or siren.  The officer giving the signal must be in uniform and prominently display the officer's badge of office.  The officer's vehicle must bear the insignia of a law enforcement agency, regardless of whether the vehicle displays an emergency light.
(c)  Except as provided by Subsection (d), an offense under this section is a Class B misdemeanor.
(d)  An offense under this section is a Class A misdemeanor if the person, during the commission of the offense, recklessly engages in conduct that places another in imminent danger of serious bodily injury.
(e)  A person is presumed to have recklessly engaged in conduct placing another in imminent danger of serious bodily injury under Subsection (d) if the person while intoxicated knowingly operated a motor vehicle during the commission of the offense.  In this subsection, "intoxicated" has the meaning assigned by Section 49.01, Penal Code.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
Amended by:
Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 1280 (H.B. 1831), Sec. 1.21, eff. September 1, 2009.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 545 - Operation and Movement of Vehicles › Subchapter I. Miscellaneous Rules › Section 545.422. Crossing Sidewalk or Hike and Bike Trail

Sec. 545.422.  CROSSING SIDEWALK OR HIKE AND BIKE TRAIL.  (a)  A person may not drive a motor vehicle on a sidewalk, sidewalk area, or hike and bike trail except on a permanent or authorized temporary driveway.
(b)  Subsection (a) does not prohibit the operation of a motor vehicle on a hike and bike trail in connection with maintenance of the trail.
(c)  In this section, "hike and bike trail" means a trail designed for the exclusive use of pedestrians, bicyclists, or both.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 30.116(a), eff. Sept. 1, 1997.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 545 - Operation and Movement of Vehicles › Subchapter I. Miscellaneous Rules › Section 545.423. Crossing Property

Sec. 545.423.  CROSSING PROPERTY.  (a)  An operator may not cross a sidewalk or drive through a driveway, parking lot, or business or residential entrance without stopping the vehicle.
(b)  An operator may not cross or drive in or on a sidewalk, driveway, parking lot, or business or residential entrance at an intersection to turn right or left from one highway to another highway.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 545 - Operation and Movement of Vehicles › Subchapter I. Miscellaneous Rules › Section 545.4252. Use of Wireless Communication Device on School Property; Offense

Sec. 545.4252.  USE OF WIRELESS COMMUNICATION DEVICE ON SCHOOL PROPERTY; OFFENSE.  (a)  In this section:
(1)  "Hands-free device" has the meaning assigned by Section 545.425.
(2)  "Wireless communication device" has the meaning assigned by Section 545.425.
(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.
(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.
(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.
Added by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 240 (H.B. 347), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2013.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 545 - Operation and Movement of Vehicles › Subchapter I. Miscellaneous Rules › Section 545.426. Operation of School Bus

Sec. 545.426.  OPERATION OF SCHOOL BUS.  (a)  A person may not operate a school bus if:
(1)  the door of the school bus is open; or
(2)  the number of passengers on the bus is greater than the manufacturer's design capacity for the bus.
(b)  An operator of a school bus, while operating the bus, shall prohibit a passenger from:
(1)  standing in the bus; or
(2)  sitting:
(A)  on the floor of the bus; or
(B)  in any location on the bus that is not designed as a seat.
(c)  The department may adopt rules necessary to administer and enforce this section.
Added by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 923 (H.B. 3190), Sec. 5, eff. September 1, 2007.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 545 - Operation and Movement of Vehicles › Subchapter I. Miscellaneous Rules › Section 545.427. Operation of Vehicle With Insufficient Undercarriage Clearance

Sec. 545.427.  OPERATION OF VEHICLE WITH INSUFFICIENT UNDERCARRIAGE CLEARANCE.  (a)  An operator may not drive on or cross a railroad grade crossing unless the vehicle being operated has sufficient undercarriage clearance.
(b)  An offense under this section is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not less than $50 or more than $200.
Added by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 424 (S.B. 1372), Sec. 12, eff. January 1, 2008.
Renumbered from Transportation Code, Section 545.426 by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 87 (S.B. 1969), Sec. 27.001(108), eff. September 1, 2009.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 545 - Operation and Movement of Vehicles › Subchapter I. Miscellaneous Rules › Section 545.428. Motor Vehicle Collision Involving Pedestrian or Other Vulnerable Road User Within Area of Crosswalk; Offense

Sec. 545.428.  MOTOR VEHICLE COLLISION INVOLVING PEDESTRIAN OR OTHER VULNERABLE ROAD USER WITHIN AREA OF CROSSWALK; OFFENSE.  (a)  In this section:
(1)  "Electric personal assistive mobility device" has the meaning assigned by Section 551.201.
(2)  "Golf cart" has the meaning assigned by Section 551.401.
(3)  "Motor-assisted scooter" has the meaning assigned by Section 551.351.
(4)  "Neighborhood electric vehicle" has the meaning assigned by Section 551.301.
(b)  A person commits an offense if the person with criminal negligence:
(1)  operates a motor vehicle within the area of a crosswalk; and
(2)  causes bodily injury to a pedestrian or a person operating a bicycle, motor-assisted scooter, electronic personal assistive mobility device, neighborhood electric vehicle, or golf cart.
(c)  An offense under this section is a Class A misdemeanor, except that the offense is a state jail felony if the person described by Subsection (b)(2) suffered serious bodily injury.
(d)  It is an affirmative defense to prosecution under this section that, at the time of the offense, the person described by Subsection (b)(2) was violating a provision of this subtitle relating to walking, movement, or operation in a crosswalk or on a roadway.
(e)  If conduct that constitutes an offense under this section also constitutes an offense under any other law, the actor may be prosecuted under this section, the other law, or both.
Added by Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 944 (S.B. 1055), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2021.
Amended by:
Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 709 (H.B. 2190), Sec. 37, eff. September 1, 2023.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 545 - Operation and Movement of Vehicles › Subchapter J. Operation of Automated Motor Vehicles › Section 545.451. Definitions

Sec. 545.451.  DEFINITIONS.  In this subchapter:
(1)  "Automated driving system" 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.
(2)  "Automated motor vehicle" means a motor vehicle on which an automated driving system is installed.
(3)  "Entire dynamic driving task" 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.
(4)  "Human operator" means a natural person in an automated motor vehicle who controls the entire dynamic driving task.
(5)  "Owner" has the meaning assigned by Section 502.001.
Added by Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 973 (S.B. 2205), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2017.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 545 - Operation and Movement of Vehicles › Subchapter J. Operation of Automated Motor Vehicles › Section 545.452. Exclusive Regulation of the Operation of Automated Motor Vehicles and Automated Driving Systems

Sec. 545.452.  EXCLUSIVE REGULATION OF THE OPERATION OF AUTOMATED MOTOR VEHICLES AND AUTOMATED DRIVING SYSTEMS.  (a)  Unless otherwise provided by this subchapter, the operation of automated motor vehicles, including any commercial use, and automated driving systems are governed exclusively by:
(1)  this subchapter; and
(2)  Section 547.618.
(b)  A political subdivision of this state or a state agency may not impose a franchise or other regulation related to the operation of an automated motor vehicle or automated driving system.
Added by Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 973 (S.B. 2205), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2017.
Amended by:
Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 892 (H.B. 3026), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2021.
Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 892 (H.B. 3026), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2021.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 545 - Operation and Movement of Vehicles › Subchapter J. Operation of Automated Motor Vehicles › Section 545.453. Operator of Automated Motor Vehicle

Sec. 545.453.  OPERATOR OF AUTOMATED MOTOR VEHICLE.  (a)  When an automated driving system installed on a motor vehicle is engaged:
(1)  the owner of the automated driving system is considered the operator of the automated motor vehicle solely for the purpose of assessing compliance with applicable traffic or motor vehicle laws, regardless of whether the person is physically present in the vehicle while the vehicle is operating; and
(2)  the automated driving system is considered to be licensed to operate the vehicle.
(b)  Notwithstanding any other law, a licensed human operator is not required to operate a motor vehicle if an automated driving system installed on the vehicle is engaged.
Added by Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 973 (S.B. 2205), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2017.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 545 - Operation and Movement of Vehicles › Subchapter J. Operation of Automated Motor Vehicles › Section 545.454. Automated Motor Vehicle Operation

Sec. 545.454.  AUTOMATED MOTOR VEHICLE OPERATION.  (a)  An automated motor vehicle may operate in this state with the automated driving system engaged, regardless of whether a human operator is physically present in the vehicle.
(b)  An automated motor vehicle may not operate on a highway in this state with the automated driving system engaged unless the vehicle is:
(1)  capable of operating in compliance with applicable traffic and motor vehicle laws of this state, subject to this subchapter;
(2)  equipped with a recording device, as defined by Section 547.615(a), installed by the manufacturer of the automated motor vehicle or automated driving system;
(3)  equipped with an automated driving system in compliance with applicable federal law and federal motor vehicle safety standards;
(4)  registered and titled in accordance with the laws of this state; and
(5)  covered by motor vehicle liability coverage or self-insurance in an amount equal to the amount of coverage that is required under the laws of this state.
Added by Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 973 (S.B. 2205), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2017.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 545 - Operation and Movement of Vehicles › Subchapter J. Operation of Automated Motor Vehicles › Section 545.455. Duties Following Collision Involving Automated Motor Vehicle

Sec. 545.455.  DUTIES FOLLOWING COLLISION INVOLVING AUTOMATED MOTOR VEHICLE.  In the event of a collision involving an automated motor vehicle, the automated motor vehicle or any human operator of the automated motor vehicle shall comply with Chapter 550.
Added by Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 973 (S.B. 2205), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2017.
Amended by:
Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 709 (H.B. 2190), Sec. 38, eff. September 1, 2023.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 545 - Operation and Movement of Vehicles › Subchapter J. Operation of Automated Motor Vehicles › Section 545.456. Vehicle Classification

Sec. 545.456.  VEHICLE CLASSIFICATION.  An owner as defined by Section 502.001(31) may identify the vehicle to the department as an automated motor vehicle or an automated driving system.
Added by Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 973 (S.B. 2205), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2017.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 546 - Operation of Authorized Emergency Vehicles and Certain Other Vehicles › Subchapter A. Authorized Emergency Vehicles › Section 546.001. Permissible Conduct

Sec. 546.001.  PERMISSIBLE CONDUCT.  In operating an authorized emergency vehicle the operator may:
(1)  park or stand, irrespective of another provision of this subtitle;
(2)  proceed past a red or stop signal or stop sign, after slowing as necessary for safe operation;
(3)  exceed a maximum speed limit, except as provided by an ordinance adopted under Section 545.365, as long as the operator does not endanger life or property;  and
(4)  disregard a regulation governing the direction of movement or turning in specified directions.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 546 - Operation of Authorized Emergency Vehicles and Certain Other Vehicles › Subchapter A. Authorized Emergency Vehicles › Section 546.002. When Conduct Permissible

Sec. 546.002.  WHEN CONDUCT PERMISSIBLE.  (a)  In this section, "police escort" 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 Articles 2.12(1)-(4), (8), (12), (17)(B), and (22), Code of Criminal Procedure.
(b)  Sections 546.001(2), (3), and (4) apply only when the operator is:
(1)  responding to an emergency call;
(2)  pursuing an actual or suspected violator of the law;
(3)  responding to but not returning from a fire alarm;
(4)  directing or diverting traffic for public safety purposes; or
(5)  conducting a police escort.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.  Amended by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 66, Sec. 1, eff. May 16, 2003.
Amended by:
Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 834 (S.B. 866), Sec. 1, eff. June 17, 2005.
Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 540 (S.B. 545), Sec. 1, eff. June 14, 2013.
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 860 (H.B. 2837), Sec. 4, eff. September 1, 2019.
Acts 2023, 88th Leg., R.S., Ch. 997 (H.B. 64), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2023.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 546 - Operation of Authorized Emergency Vehicles and Certain Other Vehicles › Subchapter A. Authorized Emergency Vehicles › Section 546.003. Audible or Visual Signals Required

Sec. 546.003.  AUDIBLE OR VISUAL SIGNALS REQUIRED.  Except as provided by Section 546.004, the operator of an authorized emergency vehicle engaging in conduct permitted by Section 546.001 shall use, at the discretion of the operator in accordance with policies of the department or the local government that employs the operator, audible or visual signals that meet the pertinent requirements of Sections 547.305 and 547.702.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 546 - Operation of Authorized Emergency Vehicles and Certain Other Vehicles › Subchapter A. Authorized Emergency Vehicles › Section 546.004. Exceptions to Signal Requirement

Sec. 546.004.  EXCEPTIONS TO SIGNAL REQUIREMENT.  (a)  A volunteer fire fighter who operates a private vehicle as an authorized emergency vehicle may engage in conduct permitted by Section 546.001 only when the fire fighter is using visual signals meeting the pertinent requirements of Sections 547.305 and 547.702.
(b)  An authorized emergency vehicle that is operated as a police vehicle is not required to be equipped with or display a red light visible from the front of the vehicle.
(c)  A police officer may operate an authorized emergency vehicle for a law enforcement purpose without using the audible or visual signals required by Section 546.003 if the officer is:
(1)  responding to an emergency call or pursuing a suspected violator of the law with probable cause to believe that:
(A)  knowledge of the presence of the officer will cause the suspect to:
(i)  destroy or lose evidence of a suspected felony;
(ii)  end a suspected continuing felony before the officer has obtained sufficient evidence to establish grounds for arrest;  or
(iii)  evade apprehension or identification of the suspect or the suspect's vehicle;  or
(B)  because of traffic conditions on a multilaned roadway, vehicles moving in response to the audible or visual signals may:
(i)  increase the potential for a collision;  or
(ii)  unreasonably extend the duration of the pursuit;  or
(2)  complying with a written regulation relating to the use of audible or visible signals adopted by the local government that employs the officer or by the department.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 546 - Operation of Authorized Emergency Vehicles and Certain Other Vehicles › Subchapter A. Authorized Emergency Vehicles › Section 546.005. Duty of Care

Sec. 546.005.  DUTY OF CARE.  This chapter does not relieve the operator of an authorized emergency vehicle from:
(1)  the duty to operate the vehicle with appropriate regard for the safety of all persons;  or
(2)  the consequences of reckless disregard for the safety of others.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 546 - Operation of Authorized Emergency Vehicles and Certain Other Vehicles › Subchapter A. Authorized Emergency Vehicles › Section 546.006. Designated Emergency Vehicle During Declared Disasters

Sec. 546.006.  DESIGNATED EMERGENCY VEHICLE DURING DECLARED DISASTERS.  (a)  From recommendations made under Section 418.013(c), Government Code, the department shall designate which vehicles may be operated by which designated organizations as emergency vehicles during declared disasters.
(b)  A vehicle designated under Subsection (a) may be operated by a designated organization as if the vehicle were an authorized emergency vehicle under this subtitle if:
(1)  the governor declares a state of disaster under Section 418.014, Government Code;
(2)  the department requests assistance from the designated organization; and
(3)  the vehicle is operated by the designated organization or a member of the designated organization in response to the state of disaster.
(c)  The department shall adopt rules as necessary to implement this section.
Added by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 258 (S.B. 11), Sec. 5.02, eff. September 1, 2007.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 546 - Operation of Authorized Emergency Vehicles and Certain Other Vehicles › Subchapter A. Authorized Emergency Vehicles › Section 546.0065. Authorized Emergency Vehicles of the Texas Division of Emergency Management

Sec. 546.0065.  AUTHORIZED EMERGENCY VEHICLES OF THE TEXAS DIVISION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT.  The department shall designate vehicles of the Texas Division of Emergency Management that may be operated as authorized emergency vehicles.
Added by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 17 (S.B. 223), Sec. 2, eff. May 10, 2013.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 546 - Operation of Authorized Emergency Vehicles and Certain Other Vehicles › Subchapter A. Authorized Emergency Vehicles › Section 546.007. Closure of Road or Highway by Firefighter

Sec. 546.007.  CLOSURE OF ROAD OR HIGHWAY BY FIREFIGHTER.  (a)  This section applies only to a firefighter who is employed by or a member of:
(1)  a fire department operated by an emergency services district;
(2)  a volunteer fire department; or
(3)  a fire department of a general-law municipality.
(b)  A firefighter, when performing the firefighter's official duties, may close one or more lanes of a road or highway to protect the safety of persons or property.
(c)  The closure shall be limited to the affected lane or lanes and one additional lane unless the safety of emergency personnel operating on the road or highway requires more lanes to be closed.
(d)  In making a closure under this section, the firefighter shall deploy one or more authorized emergency vehicles with audible and visual signals that meet the requirements of Sections 547.305 and 547.702.
Added by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 490 (H.B. 993), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2011.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 546 - Operation of Authorized Emergency Vehicles and Certain Other Vehicles › Subchapter B. Operation of Certain Fire-Fighting Equipment › Section 546.021. Mutual Aid Organizations

Sec. 546.021.  MUTUAL AID ORGANIZATIONS.  (a)  Two or more businesses whose activities require the maintenance of fire-fighting equipment may form a mutual aid organization in which the member businesses agree to assist each other during an emergency by supplying fire-fighting equipment or services.
(b)  The presiding officer or director of an organization formed under this section shall deliver a list to the county fire marshal, or to the commissioners court of a county if the county does not have a fire marshal, in each county in which a member business is located.  The list must contain the name of the registered owner and license plate number of each motor vehicle that each member intends to use in supplying fire-fighting equipment or services.
(c)  If the county fire marshal or commissioners court determines that the operation of the vehicles on the list is in the public interest and not a threat to public safety, the marshal or court shall approve the list.
(d)  On approval of the list by the county fire marshal or commissioners court, a person operating a listed motor vehicle in response to a call for emergency fire-fighting assistance from a member has the rights and restrictions placed by this subtitle on the operator of an authorized emergency vehicle.
(e)  A county is not liable for damage to a person or property caused by a person approved by the county under this section to operate a motor vehicle for emergency fire-fighting assistance.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 546 - Operation of Authorized Emergency Vehicles and Certain Other Vehicles › Subchapter C. Operation of Medical Supply Transport Vehicles › Section 546.051. Definitions

Sec. 546.051.  DEFINITIONS.  In this subchapter:
(1)  "Emergency care facility" means a health care facility, including a freestanding emergency medical care facility, hospital, temporary emergency clinic, and trauma facility, that provides emergency medical care.
(2)  "Freestanding emergency medical care facility" means a facility licensed under Chapter 254, Health and Safety Code.
(3)  "Medical supply distributor" means a person authorized to transport prescription drugs and other medical supplies to emergency care facilities or pharmacies.
(4)  "Nursing home" means a facility licensed under Chapter 242, Health and Safety Code.
(5)  "Pharmacy" has the meaning assigned by Section 551.003, Occupations Code.
(6)  "Trauma facility" has the meaning assigned by Section 773.003, Health and Safety Code.
Added by Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1040 (H.B. 1816), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2017.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 546 - Operation of Authorized Emergency Vehicles and Certain Other Vehicles › Subchapter C. Operation of Medical Supply Transport Vehicles › Section 546.052. Medical Supply Transport Vehicles During Declared Disaster

Sec. 546.052.  MEDICAL SUPPLY TRANSPORT VEHICLES DURING DECLARED DISASTER.  (a)  A vehicle used by a medical supply distributor to transport prescription drugs and other medical supplies to an emergency care facility, pharmacy, or nursing home located in an area declared a disaster area by the governor under Chapter 418, Government Code, may have access to highways, streets, and bridges as if the transport vehicle were an emergency vehicle if the transport vehicle will not negatively impact evacuation activities or any response or recovery activities in the disaster area.
(b)  The Texas Division of Emergency Management shall establish procedures to assist medical supply distributors in accessing highways, streets, and bridges as authorized by Subsection (a).
(c)  This section does not create a cause of action against a law enforcement officer involved in assisting a medical supply distributor under this section for any harm done to the distributor resulting from that assistance.
Added by Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1040 (H.B. 1816), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2017.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter A. General Provisions › Section 547.002. Applicability

Sec. 547.002.  APPLICABILITY.  Unless a provision is specifically made applicable, this chapter and the rules of the department adopted under this chapter do not apply to:
(1)  an implement of husbandry;
(2)  road machinery;
(3)  a road roller;
(4)  a farm tractor;
(5)  a bicycle, a bicyclist, or bicycle equipment;
(6)  an electric bicycle, an electric bicyclist, or electric bicycle equipment;
(7)  a golf cart;
(8)  a neighborhood electric vehicle; or
(9)  an off-highway vehicle.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.  Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 896, Sec. 2, eff. Sept. 1, 1997;  Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 1085, Sec. 8, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
Amended by:
Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 1136 (H.B. 2553), Sec. 8, eff. September 1, 2009.
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1233 (H.B. 1548), Sec. 12, eff. June 14, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter A. General Provisions › Section 547.003. Equipment Not Affected

Sec. 547.003.  EQUIPMENT NOT AFFECTED.  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.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter A. General Provisions › Section 547.004. General Offenses

Sec. 547.004.  GENERAL OFFENSES.  (a)  A person commits an offense that is a misdemeanor if the person operates or moves or, as an owner, knowingly permits another to operate or move, a vehicle that:
(1)  is unsafe so as to endanger a person;
(2)  is not equipped in a manner that complies with the vehicle equipment standards and requirements established by this chapter;  or
(3)  is equipped in a manner prohibited by this chapter.
(b)  A person commits an offense that is a misdemeanor if the person operates a vehicle equipped with an item of vehicle equipment that the person knows has been determined in a compliance proceeding under Section 547.206 to not comply with a department standard.
(c)  A court may dismiss a charge brought under this section if the defendant:
(1)  remedies the defect before the defendant's first court appearance; and
(2)  pays a reimbursement fee not to exceed $10.
(d)  Subsection (c) does not apply to an offense involving a commercial motor vehicle.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
Amended by:
Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1027 (H.B. 1623), Sec. 10, eff. September 1, 2007.
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1352 (S.B. 346), Sec. 2.72, eff. January 1, 2020.
Acts 2021, 87th Leg., R.S., Ch. 919 (S.B. 1923), Sec. 18, eff. September 1, 2021.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter A. General Provisions › Section 547.005. Offense Relating to Violation of Special-Use Provisions

Sec. 547.005.  OFFENSE RELATING TO VIOLATION OF SPECIAL-USE PROVISIONS.  (a)  A person may not use a slow-moving-vehicle emblem on a stationary object or a vehicle other than a slow-moving vehicle.
(b)  A person may not operate a motor vehicle bearing the words "school bus" unless the vehicle is used primarily to transport persons to or from school or a school-related activity.  In this subsection, "school" means a privately or publicly supported elementary or secondary school, day-care center, preschool, or institution of higher education and includes a church if the church is engaged in providing formal education.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter B. Adoption of Rules and Standards › Section 547.101. Rules and Standards in General

Sec. 547.101.  RULES AND STANDARDS IN GENERAL.  (a)  The department may adopt rules necessary to administer this chapter.
(b)  The department may adopt standards for vehicle equipment to:
(1)  protect the public from unreasonable risk of death or injury;  and
(2)  enforce safety standards of the United States as permitted under the federal motor vehicle act.
(c)  A department standard must:
(1)  duplicate a standard of the United States that applies to the same aspect of vehicle equipment performance as the department standard;  or
(2)  if there is no standard of the United States for the same aspect of vehicle equipment performance as the department standard, conform as closely as possible to a relevant standard of the United States, similar standards established by other states, and a standard issued or endorsed by recognized national standard-setting organizations or agencies.
(d)  The department may not adopt a vehicle equipment standard inconsistent with a standard provided by this chapter.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter B. Adoption of Rules and Standards › Section 547.102. School Bus Equipment Standards

Sec. 547.102.  SCHOOL BUS EQUIPMENT STANDARDS.  The department may adopt standards and specifications that:
(1)  supplement the standards and specifications provided by this chapter;
(2)  apply to lighting and warning device equipment required for a school bus;  and
(3)  at the time adopted, correlate with and conform as closely as possible to specifications approved by the Society of Automotive Engineers.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter B. Adoption of Rules and Standards › Section 547.103. Air-Conditioning Equipment Standards

Sec. 547.103.  AIR-CONDITIONING EQUIPMENT STANDARDS.  The department may adopt safety requirements, rules, and specifications that:
(1)  apply to air-conditioning equipment;  and
(2)  correlate with and conform as closely as possible to recommended practices or standards approved by the Society of Automotive Engineers.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter B. Adoption of Rules and Standards › Section 547.104. Slow-Moving-Vehicle Emblem Standards

Sec. 547.104.  SLOW-MOVING-VEHICLE EMBLEM STANDARDS.  The director shall adopt standards and specifications that:
(1)  apply to the color, size, and mounting position of a slow-moving-vehicle emblem;  and
(2)  at the time adopted, correlate with and conform as closely as practicable to the standards and specifications adopted or approved by the American Society of Agricultural Engineers for a uniform emblem to identify a slow-moving vehicle.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter B. Adoption of Rules and Standards › Section 547.105. Lighting Standards for Certain Vehicles

Sec. 547.105.  LIGHTING STANDARDS FOR CERTAIN VEHICLES.  (a)  The Texas Department of Transportation shall adopt standards and specifications that:
(1)  apply to lamps on highway maintenance or construction vehicles and service vehicles; and
(2)  correlate with and conform as closely as possible to standards and specifications approved by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.
(b)  The Texas Department of Transportation may adopt standards and specifications for lighting that permit the use of flashing lights for identification purposes on highway maintenance or construction vehicles and service vehicles.
(c)  The standards and specifications adopted under this section are in lieu of the standards and specifications otherwise provided by this chapter for lamps on vehicles.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
Amended by:
Acts 2017, 85th Leg., R.S., Ch. 892 (H.B. 3087), Sec. 3, eff. September 1, 2017.
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 11 (H.B. 61), Sec. 3, eff. September 1, 2019.
Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 11 (H.B. 61), Sec. 4, eff. September 1, 2019.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter C. Provisions Relating to the Offer, Distribution, and Sale of Vehicle Equipment › Section 547.201. Offenses Relating to the Offer, Distribution, and Sale of Vehicle Equipment

Sec. 547.201.  OFFENSES RELATING TO THE OFFER, DISTRIBUTION, AND SALE OF VEHICLE EQUIPMENT.  (a)  A person may not offer or distribute for sale or sell an item of vehicle equipment for which a standard is prescribed by this chapter or the department and that does not comply with the standard.  It is an affirmative defense to prosecution under this subsection that the person did not have reason to know in the exercise of due care that the item did not comply with the applicable standard.
(b)  A person may not offer or distribute for sale or sell an item of vehicle equipment for which a standard is prescribed by this chapter or the department, unless the item or its package:
(1)  bears the manufacturer's trademark or brand name;  or
(2)  complies with each applicable identification requirement established by an agency of the United States or the department.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter C. Provisions Relating to the Offer, Distribution, and Sale of Vehicle Equipment › Section 547.202. Department Certification or Approval of Vehicle Equipment

Sec. 547.202.  DEPARTMENT CERTIFICATION OR APPROVAL OF VEHICLE EQUIPMENT.  (a)  When or after an item of vehicle equipment is sold in this state, the department shall determine whether a department standard is prescribed for the item.  If a department standard is prescribed, the department shall determine whether the item complies with the standard.
(b)  If a standard of an agency of the United States or of the department is not prescribed, the department by rule may require departmental approval before the sale of the item.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter C. Provisions Relating to the Offer, Distribution, and Sale of Vehicle Equipment › Section 547.203. Vehicle Equipment Testing: Department Standards

Sec. 547.203.  VEHICLE EQUIPMENT TESTING:  DEPARTMENT STANDARDS.  (a)  The department shall prescribe standards for and approve testing facilities to:
(1)  review test data submitted by a manufacturer to show compliance with a department standard;  and
(2)  test an item of vehicle equipment independently in connection with a proceeding to determine compliance with a department standard.
(b)  The department may not impose a product certification or approval fee, including a fee for testing facility approval.
(c)  The department may:
(1)  by rule, require a manufacturer of an item of vehicle equipment sold in this state to submit adequate test data to show that the item complies with department standards;
(2)  periodically require a manufacturer to submit revised test data to demonstrate continuing compliance;
(3)  purchase an item of vehicle equipment at retail for the purpose of review and testing under Subsection (a);  and
(4)  enter into cooperative arrangements with other states and interstate agencies to reduce duplication of testing and to facilitate compliance with rules under Subsection (c)(1).
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter C. Provisions Relating to the Offer, Distribution, and Sale of Vehicle Equipment › Section 547.204. Vehicle Equipment Testing: Federal Standards

Sec. 547.204.  VEHICLE EQUIPMENT TESTING:  FEDERAL STANDARDS.  (a)  For a vehicle or item of vehicle equipment subject to a motor vehicle safety standard of the United States, the department may, on or after the first sale of the vehicle or item of vehicle equipment:
(1)  require the manufacturer to submit adequate test data to show that the vehicle or item of vehicle equipment complies with standards of the United States;
(2)  review the manufacturer's laboratory test data and the qualifications of the laboratory;  and
(3)  independently test the vehicle or item of vehicle equipment.
(b)  The department may not require certification or approval of an item of vehicle equipment subject to a motor vehicle safety standard of the United States.
(c)  The department may not require a manufacturer of a vehicle or of an item of vehicle equipment subject to a motor vehicle safety standard of the United States to use an outside laboratory or a specified laboratory.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter C. Provisions Relating to the Offer, Distribution, and Sale of Vehicle Equipment › Section 547.205. Initiation of Compliance Proceeding

Sec. 547.205.  INITIATION OF COMPLIANCE PROCEEDING.  (a)  The department may initiate a proceeding to determine whether an item of vehicle equipment complies with a department standard if the department reasonably believes that the item is being offered or distributed for sale or sold in violation of the standard.
(b)  The department shall send written notice of the proceeding to the manufacturer of the item by certified mail, return receipt requested.
(c)  The notice required by Subsection (b) must:
(1)  cite the standard that the item allegedly violates;  and
(2)  state that the manufacturer must file a written request with the department for a hearing not later than the 30th day after the date the notice is received to obtain a hearing on the issue of compliance.
(d)  When the department sends notice under Subsection (b), the department shall require the manufacturer to submit to the department, not later than the 30th day after the date the notice is received, the names and addresses of the persons the manufacturer knows to be offering the item for sale to retail merchants.
(e)  On receipt under Subsection (d) of the names and addresses, the department shall send by certified mail, return receipt requested, written notice of the compliance proceeding to those persons.
(f)  The notice must:
(1)  cite the standard that the item allegedly violates;
(2)  state that the manufacturer of the item has been notified and may request a hearing on the issue of compliance before a stated date;
(3)  state that if the manufacturer or another person requests a hearing, the person may appear at the hearing;
(4)  state that if the manufacturer does not request a hearing, the person may request a hearing by filing a written request with the department not later than the 30th day after the date notice is received;  and
(5)  state that the person may determine from the department whether a hearing will be held and the time and place of the hearing.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.
2023 Texas Statutes › Transportation Code › Title 7 - Vehicles and Traffic › Subtitle C - Rules of the Road › Chapter 547 - Vehicle Equipment › Subchapter C. Provisions Relating to the Offer, Distribution, and Sale of Vehicle Equipment › Section 547.206. Compliance Proceeding Hearing

Sec. 547.206.  COMPLIANCE PROCEEDING HEARING.  The department shall conduct a hearing on the issue of compliance if a person required by Section 547.205 to be notified requests a hearing in the manner and within the time specified by that section.
Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.