Summer heat is oppressive in Texas. Trying to get in a car that's been left in the excruciating Texas sun can be painful. There are even cases of people being treated for burns after sitting on hot vinyl seats.

For many of us, cooling the interior of the car before trying to drive it anywhere is a must. Even with sunshades, interior car temperatures can reach 140 degrees.

It may surprise you to learn that letting your car cool down while unattended is illegal in Texas. Texas Transportation Code is quite clear:

Texas Transportation Code - TRANSP § 545.404 is quite clear on the subject:

(a) Except as provided by Subsection (b), an operator may not leave a vehicle unattended without:

(1) stopping the engine;

(2) locking the ignition;

(3) removing the key from the ignition;

(4) setting the parking brake effectively;  and

(5) if standing on a grade, turning the front wheels to the curb or side of the highway.

There are many reasons not to leave any vehicle running unattended. It can lead to auto theft, the car could slip into gear and start moving, not to mention the environmental impacts and the high cost of gasoline.

There is some good news.  If you have a car with a keyless remote start, you can let your car cool off unattended.  Part B of the same Texas Code listed above is clear that cars with this feature are exempt from Part A of the law.

(b) The requirements of Subsections (a)(1), (2), and (3) do not apply to an operator who starts the engine of a vehicle by using a remote starter or other similar device that:

(1) remotely starts the vehicle's engine without placing the key in the ignition;  and

(2) requires the key to be placed in the ignition or physically present in the vehicle before the vehicle can be operated.

No one wants to burn their butt on the hot car seat. No one is going to compliment you for having that kind of a "hot butt." Seat covers or a beach town might be a great idea if you don't have a remote start.

There is some good news.  If you do get caught cooling your car unattended, you should be comfortable on your ride to the police station. Most police cars have pretty good air conditioning.

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