Traffic Laws: Bicycle Rules In Virginia

In Virginia, bicycles are defined as vehicles, and bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers. Bicyclists are required to follow the same traffic laws as motorists, including obeying traffic signs, signals, and pavement markings, and yielding to pedestrians. They must also ride with the flow of traffic, use proper hand signals, and wear a helmet if they are under 14 years old. Electric power-assisted bicycles are allowed on VDOT-owned shared-use paths and may be ridden on sidewalks unless prohibited by local ordinances. Bicyclists are not permitted to ride on interstate highways or certain controlled-access highways.

Bicycle safety equipment

In Virginia, bicyclists have the same rights and duties as motorists and are subject to the same traffic laws. This includes obeying all traffic signs, signals, lights, and markings.

To ensure safety, bicyclists in Virginia are advised to wear a properly fitted helmet, bright-colored clothing, and reflective gear or accessories at night. Additionally, it is recommended to carry essential items such as a tire repair kit, water, and a cell phone. Below is a detailed list of safety equipment for bicyclists:

• Helmet: Always wear a properly fitted helmet to reduce the risk of head and brain injuries in case of a crash.
• Reflective Gear: Improve visibility at night or in low-light conditions by wearing reflective vests, bands, or accessories.
• Lights: Equip your bicycle with a white front headlight and a red rear reflector or light. These are legally required in some states and increase your visibility in low-light conditions.
• Tire Repair Kit: Carry a tire pump, tire levers, a patch kit, and a spare tube to fix flat tires during your ride.
• Water Bottle: Stay hydrated by carrying water or a sports drink in a bottle holder attached to your bicycle.
• Identification and Medical Information: In case of an emergency, carry identification and pertinent medical information, such as your name, emergency contacts, and any relevant medical conditions.
• Cell Phone: Bring a cell phone for emergencies and to document any issues or accidents.
• Eye Protection: Wear shatter-resistant protective eyewear to shield your eyes from debris, bugs, and the wind.
• Gloves: Bicycling gloves can protect your hands in the event of a fall or crash.
• Mirror: Install a mirror on your handlebar, helmet, or glasses to improve your peripheral vision and be aware of trailing vehicles.
• Lock: Secure your bicycle when leaving it unattended to prevent theft.
• Leg Bands: Reflective leg bands can help keep long pants away from the bicycle chain and improve visibility.
• Storage: Carry a bag under your saddle, on a rack, or on your back to hold essential items.
• Bell or Horn: Install a bell or horn to alert others of your presence, especially on shared trails or paths.
• Multi-Tool: Carry a basic multi-tool or a crescent wrench for simple repairs or adjustments to your bicycle.
• Bicycle Registration: Consider registering your bicycle's serial number with local law enforcement or the police department for added security.

These safety equipment recommendations aim to enhance your visibility, protect you from injuries, and ensure you have the necessary tools and resources for a safe and enjoyable bicycling experience.

Riding on highways

In Virginia, bicycles are defined as vehicles, and bicyclists have the same rights and duties as motor vehicle drivers. When riding on a highway, bicyclists must adhere to the following rules:

• Bicyclists must ride with the flow of traffic on the right side of the highway. Riding against traffic is prohibited.
• When riding on a roadway, bicyclists must stay as close as safely practicable to the right curb or edge of the road. However, there are exceptions to this rule, including when bicyclists are overtaking and passing another vehicle, preparing for a left turn, or avoiding unsafe conditions.
• Bicyclists are not allowed to ride between two lanes of traffic moving in the same direction unless one lane is a separate or mandatory turn lane.
• Bicyclists are prohibited from riding on interstate highways and certain controlled-access highways. These highways are marked with conspicuous signs.
• Bicycles may be ridden on sidewalks unless prohibited by local ordinances or traffic control devices. When riding on sidewalks, bicyclists must yield the right of way to pedestrians and give an audible signal before passing.
• Bicyclists must obey all traffic signs, signals, lights, and markings. They must also use proper hand signals when turning or stopping.
• Bicyclists may pass another vehicle on the left or right side, staying in the same lane, changing lanes, or riding off the road if necessary for a safe passing.
• Bicyclists should ride defensively and be aware of motor vehicle blind spots, especially when stopped at an intersection or passing vehicles on their right.
• Bicyclists must ensure their bicycle has functioning brakes and lights.
• Bicyclists are not permitted to wear earphones in both ears while riding.
• Bicyclists should maximize their visibility at night by wearing reflective clothing and using lights and reflectors.
• Bicyclists should not carry any packages or articles that prevent them from keeping at least one hand on the handlebars.
• Bicyclists are not allowed to carry more people than the bicycle is designed to accommodate, except for adults carrying a securely attached child under six years old.

By following these rules and regulations, bicyclists can safely share the road with motorists and pedestrians in Virginia.

Riding on sidewalks

In Virginia, bicycles are allowed to be ridden on sidewalks unless it is prohibited by local ordinance or traffic control devices. However, bicyclists must always yield the right of way to pedestrians and give an audible signal before passing a pedestrian. This means that even if riding on the sidewalk is permitted, bicyclists should be cautious and avoid colliding with pedestrians.

The Code of Virginia states that no person shall ride or drive any vehicle on the sidewalks, with some exceptions, including bicycles. The governing body of any county, city, or town in Virginia may prohibit the riding of bicycles on designated sidewalks or crosswalks. These areas include churches, schools, recreational facilities, or any business property open to the public where such activity is prohibited. Signs must be posted in these areas to indicate the prohibition of bicycle riding.

Bicyclists on sidewalks have the same rights and duties as pedestrians. They must yield the right of way to pedestrians and give an audible signal before passing. They are also required to follow the same traffic rules as motorists, including obeying traffic signs, signals, and lights. Bicyclists must also use proper hand signals when stopping or turning.

It is important to note that bicyclists should ride with the flow of traffic and follow safety measures such as wearing a helmet, bright clothing, and securing loose pant legs. Additionally, they should be cautious when passing vehicles and be aware of motor vehicle blind spots.

Riding at night

Riding a bicycle at night in Virginia requires specific equipment to be visible to other road users. Bicycles ridden between sunset and sunrise must have a white headlamp visible from at least 500 feet (150 metres) in front, and a red reflector on the rear that is visible from at least 600 feet (180 metres) behind. Additionally, on roads with a speed limit of 35 mph or more, the bicycle must also have a red taillight visible from 500 feet (150 metres) behind. These lights and reflectors must be approved by the Superintendent, and the headlight must not be modified to appear blue.

The Virginia Department of Transportation recommends that cyclists maximise their visibility at night by wearing reflective clothing and applying reflective tape to their bicycle.

It is important to note that bicycles are considered vehicles in Virginia, and cyclists have the same rights and duties as motor vehicle drivers. Cyclists must obey all traffic signs, signals, lights, and markings, and use proper hand signals. They must also ride with the flow of traffic, as close as practicable to the right side of the roadway.

Rights and duties of bicyclists

In Virginia, bicycles are classified as vehicles, and bicyclists have the same rights and duties as motor vehicle drivers. They are subject to many of the same laws and are expected to obey all traffic signs, signals, lights, and markings.

Rights:

• Bicyclists have the right to ride on the road, with the flow of traffic, and are allowed to use the full lane when travelling at the normal speed of traffic.
• They are permitted to ride on sidewalks, paths, and trails, except when prohibited by signs or local ordinances.
• Bicyclists are allowed to ride two abreast, but must move into a single file if they impede the normal flow of traffic.
• In certain circumstances, bicyclists may proceed through a solid red light at an intersection, provided they come to a complete stop, exercise due care, and yield the right of way.
• Bicyclists are not required to wear a helmet, although it is highly recommended for safety.

Duties:

• Bicyclists must ride as close as safely practicable to the right side of the roadway when travelling at a speed less than traffic.
• They must yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and on sidewalks and give an audible signal when overtaking other bicyclists.
• Bicyclists must slow down and come to a complete stop at stop signs and red traffic signals.
• They must give proper signals when turning and stopping, using hand and arm signals that are visible to other bicyclists and motorists.
• Bicyclists should ride predictably, avoiding weaving in and out of traffic, and communicate their intended movements to other road users.
• They should ride defensively, being aware of motor vehicle blind spots and anticipating the actions of other road users.
• Bicyclists must not carry articles that prevent them from keeping at least one hand on the handlebars.
• They must not carry more people than the bicycle is designed to accommodate, except for adults carrying a securely attached child under the age of six.
• Bicyclists must not attach themselves to any other vehicle on the road.
• They are not permitted to wear earphones in both ears while riding.
• At night, bicycles must be equipped with a front white headlight visible from 500 feet and a rear reflector visible from 600 feet. When on a highway with a speed limit over 35 mph, a rear red taillight visible from 500 feet is also required.
• Bicycles must be equipped with brakes that will skid the wheels on dry, level, clean pavement.

Frequently asked questions