Bike lanes are set up to make cycling safer and more accessible, and accompanying rules regulate both the bicyclists and the motorists with whom they share the road. Unfortunately, despite the establishment of bike lanes and bike lane laws in Northern Virginia, bicyclists are still vulnerable to road accidents and injuries. If you are involved in an accident, contact an experienced Northern Virginia bicycle accident attorney as soon as possible to help you ensure that you are fairly compensated for your injuries.

Important Bike Lane Laws in Northern Virginia

Photo by Andrew Gook

• The Code of Virginia defines a bike lane as “a portion of a roadway designated by signs and/or pavement markings for the preferential use of bicycles, electric power-assisted bicycles, and mopeds.”
• Bicyclists riding in bike lanes are required to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians.
• Bicyclists riding in bike lanes and on sidewalks, or crossing via a crosswalk, are afforded the same rights and duties as a pedestrian.
• Bicyclists riding in bike lanes and on roadways slower than the speed of traffic are required to ride “as safely practicable to the right curb or edge of the roadway,” except in specific circumstances like when turning left or avoiding unsafe conditions.
• Motorists are not allowed to cross over into a bike lane in order to pass another vehicle.
• Motorists are also not permitted to open the door of a parked motor vehicle on the side of moving traffic unless it is “reasonably safe to do so.”

Involved in a Bicycle Accident? A Personal Injury Law Firm Can Help

An experienced Northern Virginia bicycle accident attorney can help you collect significant evidence and obtain compensation for injuries. This includes compensation for medical bills, lost income, and damages for mental and physical pain resulting from the accident.

Call Ackerman & Falcon Today

Ackerman & Falcon is a personal injury law firm in Virginia with extensive experience helping clients involved in road accidents. Call us at (703) 288-1400 or send us a message about your case online for a free, no-obligation consultation.