Bicycles remain associated with more childhood injuries than any other consumer product except the automobile. Wearing a properly fitted bicycle helmet reduces the risk of brain injury by approximately 90 percent. To learn more about our initiatives and partners, click here.
Bicycle Helmet Laws in Virginia
Virginia does not have a state bicycle helmet law. However, Virginia Code §46.2-906.1 enables localities to pass local ordinances requiring the use of bicycle helmets by children fourteen and younger. To view Virginia localities with bicycle helmet ordinances and learn about other Virginia bicycle laws visit the Virginia Department of Transportation.
Bicycle and Skate Safety Tips:
- A bicycle is considered a vehicle. Learn the rules of the road and obey all traffic laws:
- Ride on the right side of the road with traffic.
- Use the appropriate hand signals to indicate a turn.
- Respect all traffic signals.
- Stop at all stop signs.
- Always look Left, Right, and then Left again before entering a street.
- Always wear a properly-fitted bicycle helmet when riding a bicycle, scooter, or using skates or a skateboard.
- A bicycle helmet should fit comfortably and snugly.
- The helmet should sit level on the head about two finger widths above the eyebrows.
- The side adjustor buckles should form a “V” directly under the ear lobe.
- Buckle the chinstrap so that only two fingers can fit between the chin and the strap.
- Use wrist guards and elbow/knee pads when riding a scooter, or using skates or a skateboard.
- Helmets should be labeled as meeting the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standard for bicycle helmets.
- Look for the sticker with the helmet manufacturer date, and replace helmets that are over 5 years old.
- Always replace a helmet after a crash; it has done its job!
Download the printable Bicycle and Skate Safety tip card
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