Serious Motorcycle Accidents In Virginia
If you were involved in a motorcycle crash in Virginia, whether you were riding on typical rural roads, city streets, suburban roads or the highway, you may have experienced devastating injuries. Motorcyclists are at risk of serious injury when struck by full-size vehicles, especially when it happens at high speeds. Motorcyclists inherently have less protection, so they are always at the mercy of the drivers around them.
Here at Spicer, Olin & Associates, P.C., our Blacksburg lawyers have more than 30 years of valuable experience to lean on when helping you seek compensation. We work on contingency fees, so you pay nothing until we win and initial consultations are free. Call today to get the process started.
Potential Injuries In Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle riders can face severe injuries to their head, back, neck, arms, hands, legs, feet and face. Serious injuries include:
- Road rash
- Compound fractures
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries (SCIs)
- Burn injuries
- Internal injuries
- Amputation injuries
These injuries can be temporary or long-term, and they can lead to scarring, disfigurement, disability and many other health complications. They can impact earnings, quality of life and more.
Motorcycle Helmet Law In Virginia
One important thing to note is that Virginia motorcycle laws state that operators and passengers must wear a helmet while riding. Additionally, the motorcycle must have a windshield, or the operator must have a face shield, safety glasses or goggles. Helmets must meet current DOT (Department of Transportation) certification.
That said, the law notes that not wearing a helmet does not constitute negligence. A rider could be pulled over by police, and riders are strongly encouraged to wear a helmet (and additional protective gear) to reduce injury severity. However, if a rider was injured by another driver’s negligence, that driver would still be responsible for causing the crash.
Lane-Splitting And Lane-Sharing Laws In Virginia
Motorcyclists in Virginia must understand that lane-splitting is not permitted under state law. This means motorcycles cannot legally travel between lanes of slowed or stopped traffic to move ahead of surrounding vehicles. Even in heavy congestion or stop-and-go highway traffic, riders must remain within a designated lane rather than passing between cars. Virginia law treats this as unlawful, and it can become a significant issue when fault is disputed after a crash.
Virginia law does, however, recognize an important distinction for lane-sharing. Two two-wheeled motorcycles may lawfully ride side by side within the same lane. This is different from lane-splitting because both motorcycles remain in the same designated lane rather than moving between adjacent lanes. Riders often confuse these concepts, but the legal difference can affect liability arguments and insurance positions after an accident.
Understanding this distinction is particularly important in Virginia personal injury claims, where any allegation that a rider contributed to the collision may affect recovery.
Moped Requirements And Laws In Virginia
Virginia law distinguishes mopeds from motorcycles, and this can affect both traffic compliance and accident claims.
To legally operate a moped in Virginia, the rider must be at least 16 years old and carry a government-issued photo identification showing name, address and date of birth. A standard driver’s license is not generally required for a qualifying moped, provided the vehicle falls within Virginia’s statutory definition and speed restrictions.
Mopeds may be driven on highways and public vehicular areas, but they may not be operated faster than 35 miles per hour. If a rider exceeds that speed, Virginia treats the vehicle as a motorcycle for legal purposes. Mopeds are also prohibited from operating on any part of the Interstate Highway System.
Mopeds are commonly used on local roads, suburban streets and college-area traffic near Blacksburg. Crashes involving these vehicles often raise questions about roadway access, speed compliance and driver visibility.
These distinctions are relevant when determining fault, insurance coverage and the legal duties owed by surrounding drivers after a collision. They also help riders understand which rules apply before an accident ever occurs. This knowledge is important when insurers attempt to challenge liability or raise comparative fault arguments after a serious crash. A clear understanding of these laws can strengthen immediate safety while riding and legal claims after an accident.
Statute Of Limitations For Filing Motorcycle Accident Claims
After receiving treatment for your injuries, you must contact a motorcycle accident lawyer who can advocate for your rights and help you file your claim. In Virginia, crash victims or “plaintiffs” have a two-year statute of limitations for filing their personal injury claims. This timeframe begins on your injury date, unless you are still a minor. If so, your two-year window is paused until you turn 18 years of age and ends once you turn 20.
Call Today For A Consultation
If you would like to set up your free initial consultation with experienced motorcycle crash attorneys in Virginia, just call 540-315-8799 or use the online contact form. Our team is ready to help you seek the compensation you deserve.