Road Justice Tip: Every checkbox on these lists is either a safety measure that protects your life or an evidence measure that protects your case. Most are both. The rider who follows these checklists is the rider who recovers the most — on the road and in the courtroom.
Hip Fire: Quick Bullets Nailing The Answers Covered in this FAQ
(detail with sources below)
- This FAQ contains seven printable checklists covering every phase of riding and crash recovery — from your pre-ride inspection to healing after an injury.
- Checklist 1 — Pre-Ride T-CLOCS Inspection: The MSF/TDLR standard six-point check (Tires, Controls, Lights, Oil, Chassis, Stands) that prevents roughly 10–15% of mechanical-related crashes.
- Checklist 2 — Protective Gear (ATGATT): Helmet, jacket, pants, gloves, boots, visibility gear — with Texas helmet law exemption reminders.
- Checklist 3 — Defensive Riding & “Look Twice”: Lane positioning, scanning, speed, intersection survival — based on TxDOT’s statewide campaign.
- Checklist 4 — Immediately After a Crash: The critical first-hour steps that protect your health AND your legal case.
- Checklist 5 — Insurance & PIP/UM/UIM Claim Filing: Step-by-step claim process with statutory deadlines your insurer must meet.
- Checklist 6 — While Healing: How to strengthen your case during recovery — doctor compliance, journaling, social media, evidence preservation.
- Checklist 7 — Post-Crash Bike Recovery & Evidence Preservation: Getting your bike back, preserving physical evidence, and protecting against storage fees.
- Print these. Laminate them. Keep them in your tank bag. When prevention is not enough, they become the foundation of your injury case.
Everything below comes directly from official government and safety sources: the TxDOT/TDLR Motorcycle Operators Manual, MSF T-CLOCS, NHTSA/TxDOT safety campaigns, TDI claim guidance, and Texas personal injury best practices. These are not opinions — they are the same standards used by courts, insurers, and safety experts.
Source: MSF T-CLOCS Pre-Ride Inspection Checklist — msf-usa.org; TDLR Motorcycle Operators Manual — tdlr.texas.gov/mot/; TxDOT Motorcycle Safety Campaign — txdot.gov/safety/traffic-safety-campaigns/motorcycle-safety.html; TDI Auto Insurance Guide — tdi.texas.gov/pubs/consumer/cb020.html; TDI Claim Filing Tips — tdi.texas.gov/consumer/claimtips.html
CHECKLIST 1 Pre-Ride Inspection (T-CLOCS)
Perform before every ride. Required knowledge for Texas Class M license. Takes about 2 minutes.
T — Tires & Wheels
☐ Tread depth adequate — no bald spots, uneven wear, or weathering (front & rear)
☐ Tires evenly seated on rims — no bulges or embedded objects (nails, glass, screws)
☐ Air pressure checked when cold — adjusted to load per manufacturer spec (front & rear)
☐ Spokes (if applicable): None bent, broken, or missing — tap and listen for ‘ring’ (good) vs. ‘thud’ (loose)
☐ Cast wheels (if applicable): No cracks or dents
☐ Rims: Not out of round (tolerance 5mm or less)
☐ Bearings: No freeplay or growling sound when spinning the wheel
C — Controls
☐ Clutch lever: Smooth operation, proper freeplay
☐ Throttle: Snaps back to closed position when released
☐ Front and rear brakes: Firm feel, no sponginess, engage properly
☐ Levers and pedals: Properly adjusted, no binding
☐ Cables: No fraying, kinks, or stiffness
☐ Hoses: No cracks, bulges, or leaks
☐ Horn: Works
L — Lights & Electrical
☐ Headlight: Works on both high and low beam
☐ Tail light: On and visible
☐ Brake light: Activates with both front lever and rear pedal
☐ Turn signals: All four working, proper flash rate, self-cancel (if equipped)
☐ Battery: Secure mount, clean terminals, adequate charge
☐ Reflectors: Clean and intact
O — Oil & Fluids
☐ Engine oil: Level within range, clean (not black/gritty)
☐ Coolant (if liquid-cooled): Level in overflow reservoir within marks
☐ Brake fluid: Front and rear reservoirs within range, fluid clear (not dark)
☐ Fuel: Adequate for planned ride; no leaks
☐ No visible fluid leaks under the bike or on the engine
C — Chassis
☐ Frame: No cracks, dents, or damage at welds and gussets
☐ Steering head bearings: No tight spots or play — handlebars turn smoothly, lock to lock
☐ Front forks: Smooth travel, no leaking seals, proper preload
☐ Rear shock/suspension: Smooth travel, proper preload for load
☐ Swingarm: No excessive play or loose pivot bolts
☐ Chain/belt/shaft: Proper tension, lubrication, no damage (check per manual)
☐ Fasteners: Critical bolts tight (axle nuts, engine mounts, handlebar clamps)
S — Stands
☐ Side stand: Springs intact, deploys and retracts fully
☐ Center stand (if equipped): Deploys and retracts properly
☐ Side stand safety switch: Engine cuts off when the stand is down, and the bike is in gear
Texas Tip: Document any mechanical issues in writing or photos before you ride. If a mechanical failure contributes to a crash, this documentation is critical for your claim — it shows you did your part and may open the door to a product liability case.
Source: MSF T-CLOCS Pre-Ride Inspection Checklist — msf-usa.org/documents/library/t-clocs-pre-ride-inspection-checklist/; TDLR Motorcycle Operators Manual — tdlr.texas.gov/mot/pdf/
CHECKLIST 2 Protective Gear & Helmet (ATGATT)
All The Gear, All The Time — every ride, every time, no exceptions.
☐ Helmet: DOT-approved (look for DOT sticker on back); full-face preferred for maximum protection
☐ Helmet condition: No cracks, no prior crash damage, chin strap secure, snug fit (should not wobble)
☐ Eye/face protection: Visor shield or goggles — even with a full-face helmet
☐ Jacket: Abrasion-resistant material (leather or armored textile); bright or reflective colors
☐ Pants: Abrasion-resistant (leather or armored textile) — not jeans
☐ Gloves: Full-finger, padded knuckles, good grip on controls
☐ Boots: Over-the-ankle, sturdy soles, no loose laces that can catch on pegs or shifter
☐ High-visibility vest or reflective tape — especially for night rides and urban commuting
☐ Earplugs for long rides (wind noise causes hearing damage over time)
Texas Helmet Law Reminder: Riders 21+ can legally ride without a helmet ONLY if they completed an MSF-approved training course OR carry at least $10,000 in motorcycle-specific medical insurance. Carry proof of your exemption at all times. Riders under 21 MUST wear a helmet — no exceptions.
Source: TxDOT Motorcycles Portal (helmet effectiveness: 37% fatality reduction) — data.texas.gov/stories/s/Texas-Department-of-Transportation-Traffic-Safety-/hz2w-23dc/; NHTSA Helmet Page — nhtsa.gov/road-safety/motorcycles
CHECKLIST 3 Defensive Riding & Awareness
Based on TxDOT’s “Share the Road: Look Twice for Motorcycles” campaign and NHTSA defensive riding guidelines.
☐ Lane position: Stay visible — ride in the portion of the lane where other drivers can see you; avoid blind spots
☐ Headlights: ON at all times, including daytime (daytime running lights if equipped)
☐ Intersections: Slow down and cover brakes; assume drivers may not see you — especially left-turning vehicles
☐ Speed & spacing: Match traffic flow; maintain at least a 2-second following distance (more in rain or poor visibility)
☐ Mirror scanning: Check mirrors every 5–10 seconds; be aware of what is behind and beside you
☐ Look ahead: Scan 12–15 seconds ahead of your current position for hazards
☐ Weather/road conditions: Adjust speed and technique for rain, gravel, debris, potholes, oil patches, and construction zones
☐ Impairment: Zero tolerance — no alcohol, no drugs, no riding when fatigued or on drowsiness-inducing medication
☐ Signal early: Give other drivers maximum warning before turns and lane changes
☐ Escape route: Always have a plan for where to go if a car suddenly enters your path
Texas Metro Tip: In Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Fort Worth, and Austin — the Top 5 highest-crash counties — double-check every left-turning vehicle at every intersection. About 40% of Texas motorcycle fatalities happen at intersections, and these accidents account for the vast majority.
Source: TxDOT Motorcycle Safety Campaign — txdot.gov/safety/traffic-safety-campaigns/motorcycle-safety.html
CHECKLIST 4 Immediately After a Motorcycle Crash
The first hour defines your case. Follow every step.
☐ Move to safety if you can do so without worsening injuries
☐ Call 911 immediately — required by Texas law for any crash involving injury, death, or damage over $1,000
☐ Do NOT move the motorcycle unless it is blocking traffic and creating immediate danger
☐ Document EVERYTHING with photos and video:
○ Crash scene from multiple angles
○ All vehicle damage (your bike and the other vehicle)
○ Your visible injuries (cuts, bruises, road rash)
○ Skid marks, broken glass, debris on the road
○ Traffic signals, signs, and road conditions
○ Other vehicle’s license plate
○ Nearby surveillance cameras (note locations)
☐ Exchange basic info with other driver: name, phone, insurance, license plate — NOTHING MORE
☐ Do NOT discuss fault — do not say “I’m sorry” or “I’m fine.”
☐ Do NOT sign anything at the scene
☐ Seek medical evaluation SAME DAY — even if you feel okay (adrenaline masks injuries)
☐ Get a copy of the CR-3 police report (purchase from TxDOT Crash Records)
☐ Contact YOUR insurer to file a PIP claim first — quick no-fault benefits for medical bills and lost wages
☐ Do NOT give a recorded statement to the at-fault driver’s insurance company without a lawyer
☐ Contact a motorcycle injury attorney before talking to any adjuster
Source: TDI Claim Filing Tips — tdi.texas.gov/consumer/claimtips.html; Texas Transportation Code Chapter 550 (crash reporting requirements)
CHECKLIST 5 Insurance & PIP/UM/UIM Claim Filing
Texas Insurance Code §§ 1952.151–1952.161. Your insurer must respond within statutory deadlines.
☐ Report crash to YOUR insurer immediately — file under PIP for instant no-fault medical/wage coverage
☐ Gather and submit a “satisfactory proof” package:
○ CR-3 police report
○ All medical bills, records, and invoices
○ Proof of lost wages (pay stubs, employer letter, tax records if self-employed)
○ Receipts for essential services (childcare, housekeeping, yard work)
○ Photos of injuries, bike damage, and the crash scene
○ Completed the PIP claim form from your insurer
☐ Know your statutory deadlines: insurer must acknowledge within 15 days; pay within 30 days of proof
☐ For UM/UIM: Exhaust at-fault driver’s liability limits first (or confirm they have none), then file with your own policy
☐ Track every call and communication: date, representative name, what was discussed
☐ Follow up all phone calls with email or letter (create a paper trail)
☐ If claim is denied: get a written explanation, appeal with additional documentation
☐ If insurer still refuses: file complaint with TDI; consult attorney about § 1952.157 (12% penalty + attorney fees)
☐ Preserve motorcycle and all gear — do NOT repair or dispose until inspected by an attorney/expert
Source: TDI Auto Insurance Guide — tdi.texas.gov/pubs/consumer/cb020.html; Texas Insurance Code §§ 1952.151–1952.161
CHECKLIST 6 While Healing: Strengthen Your Case Every Day
Your recovery period IS your case-building period. Every step creates evidence that works for you.
☐ Follow ALL doctor’s orders — attend every appointment, take every prescribed medication, follow every restriction
☐ Keep a daily pain/symptom journal: what hurts, what you cannot do, how you slept, your mood
☐ Take dated photos of injuries and scars as they change over time (weekly at minimum)
☐ Track every expense: medical co-pays, prescriptions, gas to appointments, equipment (braces, crutches, shower chair)
☐ Track every day of missed work: keep pay stubs from before and after the crash
☐ If self-employed: save records of jobs, contracts, or clients you could not serve
☐ AVOID SOCIAL MEDIA entirely — do not post, do not change privacy settings, do not comment about the crash
☐ Do NOT discuss case details with anyone except your attorney and your doctor
☐ Preserve motorcycle, helmet, jacket, gloves, boots — all gear in post-crash condition
☐ If liability is disputed: ask your attorney about accident reconstruction
☐ Document changes in your relationships: missed family events, lost intimacy, tasks your spouse/partner has taken over (consortium evidence)
Why This Matters: Insurance companies will search your social media, look for gaps in your medical treatment, and question every expense you claim. This checklist creates an airtight paper trail that maximizes your settlement value and leaves the adjuster with nothing to attack.
CHECKLIST 7 Post-Crash Bike Recovery & Evidence Preservation
Act fast — towing and storage fees pile up daily. Your damaged bike is physical evidence.
☐ Contact towing company or Vehicle Storage Facility (VSF) immediately — get bike location from police report
☐ Bring: proof of ownership (title or registration), photo ID, proof of insurance
☐ Pay towing/storage fees or negotiate release (Texas caps some non-consent tow charges under the Transportation Code)
☐ BEFORE any repairs or disposal: photograph bike and gear thoroughly in current post-crash condition
☐ Do NOT authorize total-loss disposal or salvage without your attorney’s review
☐ Do NOT authorize any repairs until your attorney or insurer’s adjuster has inspected the bike
☐ Arrange an independent expert inspection for accident reconstruction if liability is disputed
☐ If bike is drivable but damaged: arrange private tow to your chosen shop (do not leave at unauthorized lot — daily fees accrue)
☐ If totaled: negotiate the insurer’s actual cash value offer — look up comparable bikes in your area
☐ If keeping the totaled bike: understand you will receive a payout minus salvage value and get a salvage title
☐ Preserve all gear — helmet, jacket, gloves, boots — in a sealed bag for expert inspection
Source: Texas Transportation Code Chapter 2308 (towing regulations); Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) — Vehicle Towing Rules
Print These. Laminate Them. Keep Them in Your Tank Bag.
These seven checklists cover every phase of your life as a Texas rider — from the two-minute inspection before you start the engine to the months-long recovery after someone else’s negligence puts you on the ground. They are built from the same official sources that courts, insurers, and safety experts rely on. Follow them, and you will be safer on the road and stronger in court.
And when prevention is not enough — when a driver turns left without looking, when a texting teenager runs a red light, when someone else’s bad decision changes your life. Contact a skilled Texas motorcycle accident attorney to ensure that insurers do not treat you like a second-class claimant. The checklists build the evidence. The attorney fights the fight.