What Do I Do If My Bike Rack Obscures My License Plate?

In the UK, there are specific legal requirements regarding bike racks and their impact on the visibility of your vehicle’s number plate and taillights. When using a rear-mounted bike rack, it can often obstruct the view of your number plate and taillights, which can be problematic. To address this issue and ensure compliance with the law, drivers are encouraged to use additional accessories like a lightboard and detachable number plates. These accessories help maintain the visibility of your vehicle’s essential components, ensuring road safety and adherence to regulations. This information was last updated on August 16th, 2022.

“Is it legal for a bike rack to partially obscure your license plate in Texas? Many Texas residents wonder about this issue. Fortunately, Texas law does allow for an exception when it comes to bicycle and motorcycle racks partially covering license plates. According to § 504.945, Section C, item 4.20, established on June 20, 2020, these specific racks are exempt from penalties related to license plate visibility.”

Leaving a trunk-mounted bike rack on your car throughout the year, including during rainy weather, can generally be considered safe, provided that it is properly and securely affixed to your vehicle. However, it is essential to conduct regular checks to ensure the bike rack is in good working order and free from any signs of damage or wear and tear. This ongoing maintenance and inspection will help ensure the safety and effectiveness of your bike rack, protecting both your valuable bicycles and the well-being of other road users.