As we roll through the dog days of summer and more Virginians take to the roads and trails on bicycles and e-bikes, AAA reminds riders and drivers alike of the importance of bike safety. Warmer weather means increased cycling activity, and with it, a greater need for awareness to prevent crashes and fatalities.
Nationally, bicyclist fatalities remain near record levels, with 1,075 cyclists killed in crashes involving motor vehicles in 2024—the third-highest total ever recorded. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, fatalities have increased 73% since 2010, reinforcing the importance of safe riding and attentive driving. Last year, nearly seven in 10 bicyclists killed in traffic crashes were not wearing a helmet, underscoring the critical role helmets play in reducing the risk of serious injury and death.
According to the latest available data from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, there were over 600 bicycle-involved crashes statewide in 2025, resulting in 15 fatalities and hundreds of injuries. Urban areas like Richmond, the Tidewater, and Northern Virginia reported the highest numbers of incidents. These statistics underscore the urgent need for improved safety practices among cyclists and drivers alike.
“Summer is an ideal time to enjoy biking, but safety must always come first,” said Morgan Dean, AAA Club Alliance spokesperson. “By following basic safety guidelines and staying alert, drivers and riders can help reduce crashes and save lives. We encourage everyone—cyclists, e-bike users, and drivers—to share the road responsibly.”
Tips for Safe Summer Biking
- Wear a properly fitted helmet, regardless of age or skill level.
- Use lights, reflective gear, and bright clothes to increase visibility, especially at dawn or dusk.
- Obey all traffic laws and signals; ride with the flow of traffic.
- Stay alert for road hazards and avoid distractions.
- Make eye contact with drivers at intersections for added safety.
E-Bike Safety Recommendations
- Before heading out, take time to familiarize yourself with your e-bike’s controls, power modes, and braking system before riding in traffic.
- Observe local regulations regarding e-bike use, including age restrictions and permitted pathways.
- Use extra caution when accelerating or braking, as e-bikes can react differently than traditional bikes.
- Stay alert and avoid distractions such as mobile devices while riding.
- Yield to pedestrians and be extra cautious at intersections and driveways.
- Be mindful of mechanical issues, including brakes, tires, and battery connection and battery maintenance and charging safety.
- Parents and guardians should supervise young riders and ensure they’re using an e-bike appropriate for their age and experience.
Reminders for Drivers to Help Protect Cyclists
- Always be alert for bicyclists, especially at intersections and when turning. Look both ways and yield to cyclists
- Give cyclists plenty of space; leave at least three feet when passing, as required by Virginia law.
- Check your mirrors and blind spots before opening your car door or making lane changes.
- Never drive distracted or impaired—stay focused and avoid using your phone while behind the wheel.
- Obey posted speed limits, especially in neighborhoods and areas with high bicycle traffic.
- Be patient and respectful; remember that cyclists have a right to the road too.
- Watch for e-bike users, who may move faster than traditional cyclists, and adjust your driving accordingly.
Types of E-Bikes and Virginia State Rules
Recent nationwide data shows a rising trend in hospital visits involving children injured in e-bike crashes, with emergency departments reporting more cases each year as e-bike popularity grows. According to the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC), 155,200 e-bike–related emergency room visits occurred in the U.S. from 2017 to 2024. During that time period, there were 310 fatalities involving e-bikes – many of them were in crashes involving motor vehicles or incidents where the e-bike rider lost control. Experts attribute this increase to greater accessibility and use among younger riders, highlighting the importance of safety education and proper supervision.
“Parents are reminded that E-bikes shouldn’t be viewed as toys,” said Dean. “Depending on their type and top speed, they may not be appropriate for young children.”
E-bikes are generally categorized into three classes:
- Class 1: Pedal-assist only, with a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph. The motor only works when the rider is pedaling.
- Class 2: Throttle-assisted, also limited to 20 mph, but the motor can propel the bike without pedaling.
- Class 3: Pedal-assist only, but with a higher maximum speed of 28 mph. These are often equipped with a speedometer.
In Virginia, state law generally gives electric power-assisted bicycles the same rights and duties as traditional bicycles, while recognizing three e-bike classes. E-bikes do not require a driver’s license, registration, title, insurance, or license plates. Class 3 e-bike operators must be at least 14 years old, unless riding under the immediate supervision of an adult, and all Class 3 operators and passengers are required to wear helmets. There is no statewide minimum age requirement for Class 1 or Class 2 e-bikes, though local rules may apply. E-bikes may generally be ridden where bicycles are allowed, including roads, bike lanes, shoulders, bicycle paths, and shared-use paths; however, localities or state agencies may restrict e-bike use on certain paths, including prohibiting Class 3 e-bikes, so riders should check posted and local rules before riding.
AAA urges all cyclists to make bike safety a priority this summer. For more information and resources, visit AAA’s traffic safety website or contact your local AAA office.
Did you know…? AAA roadside assistance covers bicycle breakdowns for members at all membership levels, provided the bike is on a road or street accessible to a roadside rescue vehicle. Learn more by clicking here.
About AAA:
AAA provides automotive, travel, and insurance services to more than 65.2 million members nationwide and more than 1.2 million members in Virginia. AAA advocates for the safety and mobility of its members and has been committed to outstanding road service for more than 100 years. AAA is a non-stock, membership corporation working on behalf of motorists, who can map a route, find local gas prices and electric vehicle charging stations, discover discounts, book a hotel, and track their roadside assistance service with the AAA Mobile app (AAA.com/mobile) for iPhone, iPad and Android. For more information on joining or renewing a Membership, visit www.AAA.com.
