VDOT Kicks Off Bike Month with Safety Tips and Events Across Virginia

May is National Bike Month, and the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is encouraging Virginians to get outside, gear up, and go for a ride while promoting bicycle safety and awareness across the state.

Governor Glenn Youngkin has officially proclaimed May as Bike Month in Virginia, recognizing the importance of cycling as an efficient, low-cost, and environmentally friendly mode of transportation. With warmer weather drawing more cyclists to the roads, VDOT is also reminding motorists and riders of their shared responsibility to keep Virginia’s roadways safe for everyone.

“Biking offers independent mobility and reduces traffic congestion and air pollution,” said the governor’s proclamation. Virginia supports cycling through bike-friendly infrastructure, with more than 1,599 miles of shared use paths, 967 miles of designated bike lanes, and 466 miles of shared lane markings and locally designated routes.

Several events across the Commonwealth will highlight the benefits of cycling and road safety throughout May, including:

• National Ride a Bike Day – Sunday, May 4

• Bike & Roll to School Day – Wednesday, May 7

• Bike to Work Day – Friday, May 16

VDOT also encourages Virginians to explore the state’s bike infrastructure using the Virginia Bicycle Facility Inventory, an interactive map highlighting trails, lanes, and bike-friendly routes.

As Bike Month begins, VDOT is reminding drivers and cyclists to follow safety guidelines that protect everyone on the road.

Drivers Should:

• Slow down and give at least three feet of space when passing a cyclist.

• Check for bikes before opening doors or exiting parking spaces.

• Yield to bicyclists at intersections, just as you would for pedestrians or other vehicles.

• Avoid driving or parking in bike lanes unless turning or crossing.

• Be extra alert for contraflow bike traffic and cyclists continuing straight at intersections.

Bicyclists Should:

• Obey traffic signals and signs, and use proper hand signals.

• Ride with the flow of traffic and avoid sudden movements.

• Watch for turning vehicles and road hazards, and ride defensively.

• Wear bright, reflective clothing, especially when riding at night.

• Ride single file when cars are passing and avoid vehicle blind spots.

VDOT’s message is clear: whether you’re commuting, exercising, or just enjoying the ride, Bike Month is a time to embrace cycling and stay safe doing it.

For more information and resources, including local events and bike maps, visit VDOT’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Program.