Updated February 4, 2026
West Virginia is home to hundreds of avid bicyclists, each of whom has the same rights and responsibilities on the roadway as motorists. There are specific laws in place regarding bikes in West Virginia to reduce the number of collisions and protect vulnerable bicyclists in the event of a crash. Bicyclists are more at risk during an automobile collision than occupants of the passenger car. Abiding by bike laws gives bicyclists the best chance of avoiding a harmful collision.
Bicyclists Can Ride on the Roadways
Bicyclists can use the roadways like a motor vehicle, except for on major highways and if there is a bicycle path adjacent to a roadway. West Virginia laws require bikers to stay as close to the right side of the road as possible. Bikes must move in the same direction as traffic and abide by the same rules of the road. They cannot run stop signs or red lights, nor can they turn without using a hand signal. When passing a stationary vehicle, bicyclists must use extra caution in case of a door opening into the bike. Bicycles are also allowed on sidewalks.
Bicyclists Cannot Ride Under the Influence
The same laws that govern drinking and driving a motor vehicle apply to bicycles. Many people mistakenly believe that riding a bike while drunk or under the influence of drugs is not against the law. While it may be safer than getting behind the wheel of a passenger vehicle, it is still just as illegal. West Virginia defines bicycles as vehicles. Thus, all laws that apply to vehicles also apply to bicycles.
It is illegal in West Virginia to bike with a blood alcohol content (BAC) level of 0.08% or higher if you are at least 21 years old and of 0.02% or higher if under the age of 21. A bicyclist can receive a DUI for biking under the influence, with the same penalties as driving. A first-time DUI may include up to six months in jail, fines of $100 to $1,000, and license suspension for 15 to 45 days.
Bicyclists Helmet Laws
Under West Virginia law, helmet requirements depend on the rider’s age and the type of bike being used. The Child Bicycle Safety Act (West Virginia Code § 17C‑11A‑4) makes it unlawful for anyone under age 15 to operate or be a passenger on a bicycle or any attachment to a bicycle on a public roadway, bicycle path, or other public right‑of‑way unless they are wearing a properly fitted, securely fastened protective helmet. Parents or guardians who knowingly allow a child under 15 to ride without a helmet can also be held responsible under this statute.
For standard, non‑electric bicycles, this means that riders 15 years of age and older are not subject to a statewide helmet mandate — adults and older teens may legally ride without a helmet. However, the helmet law for children does not automatically apply as evidence of negligence in a head injury case; failure to wear a helmet cannot be used in court to prove negligence or reduce damages.
Electric bicycles (e‑bikes) in West Virginia are treated similarly to traditional bicycles for many purposes, and they are defined and regulated under West Virginia Code § 17C‑11‑8. For helmet use, the same age‑based requirement applies: anyone under age 15 who operates or rides as a passenger on an electric bicycle must wear a properly fitted helmet under the Child Bicycle Safety Act.
In addition to the helmet rules, the e‑bike statute includes age restrictions for certain classes of e‑bikes (for example, minimum ages for operating high‑speed e‑bikes) and specifies that e‑bike riders have the same rights and duties as other bicycle riders on public roadways.
If you’re addressing helmet use in injury cases or personal liability, it’s also useful to note that West Virginia law prohibits using a helmet violation as evidence of negligence in a civil case — this applies to both bicycles and e‑bikes under the Child Bicycle Safety Act.
Bicyclists Cannot Ride at Night Without a Light
According to West Virginia law, all bicyclists who want to ride at night must equip their bikes with a front lamp that emits a white light that is visible from at least 500 feet away. The back of the bicycle must also have a red reflector that is visible from 50 to 300 feet to the rear when directly in front of a motorist’s headlights. Bicyclists may also use a red light on the rear of the bike in addition to the reflector that emits light visible from 500 feet away.
Bicyclists Can Ride Two Abreast in a Lane
Similar to motorcycle laws, West Virginia bicycle laws allow two bicycles to ride next to one another in one lane. However, no more than two bicycles can ride abreast unless bicycles are on a path specifically designated for bikes. Bicyclists cannot carry more than one person on a regular, attached bike seat at a time. No bike can carry more people than it is equipped to hold. Bicyclists cannot attach themselves to vehicles on the roadway.
Bicycle accidents can result in catastrophic injuries such as broken bones and therefore, bike laws are put in place to help keep cyclists safe. If you were injured in a collision through no fault of your own, it is important to speak with a West Virginia personal injury lawyer experienced in bicycle accident cases as soon as you are able. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and a seasoned professional can explain your available legal options moving forward.
