After Friday death of a bicycle rider in Troutville a reminder Cyclists have rights by state law

Friends of cyclist Tabitha Thompson, 39 of Fincastle who was struck on Friday by a vehicle on Rt. 11 in Troutville (and later died) are trying to get awareness out for drivers about safely occupying the roads with cyclists.

First, Botetourt County now hosts several events that include masses of cyclists and some of the area participants do ride for practice on days besides the scheduled events. Citizens from everywhere enjoy cycling in Botetourt as well as residents like Thompson. The TransAmerica Bicycle Trail also called US Bike Route 76 in honor of the Bicentennial, goes right through Botetourt County. Thousands have come through in the over 45 year time period. The new events include Gran Fondo and a Triathlon that features runners and cyclists (and swimmers but they would not include existing with vehicles )

Second: Here is a release from June 30, 2021 which The Bee ran per request of the DMV. The law took effect om July 1, 2021. Pkease familiarlize yourself.

Motorists Will Be Required to Change Lanes to Pass Bicyclists
RICHMOND – The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) wants residents to be aware of a new law, effective July 1, 2021 that requires motorists to change lanes when passing a bicyclist if the lane of travel is not wide enough to accommodate three feet in distance between the motor vehicle and the bicycle.
Current law allows, but does not require, a motorist to move into the other lane when passing a bicyclist in order to ensure at least three feet of distance between the bicyclist and the overtaking vehicle. In addition to bicycles, this provision also applies to people riding on an electric personal assistive mobility device,moped, animal or animal-drawn vehicle.
“This law increases safety for bicyclists by providing more space between them and much larger vehicles when motorists pass on our roadways,” said DMV Commissioner Richard D. Holcomb, the Governor’s Highway Safety Representative. “We all share our roads and we all share the responsibility to look out for each other.”
The new law also removes restrictions on bicyclists riding two abreast. This provision applies to people riding on an electric personal assistive mobility devices or motorized skateboards or scooters. –Jessica Cowstain, DMV”

Third: We all exist on the same roads. Vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, Horses and other motorized vehicles. Inattention is a primary cause of any accident on the road or in the home. So as the saying goes, “Stay in your lane,” pay attention and observe the rules of the road with common courtesy.

–Cathy Benson Editor