First-year delegate, Thomas “Tag” Greason (R-eastern Loudoun), has introduced legislation in Virginia’s General Assembly that would allow those riding two-wheeled vehicles to pass through red traffic lights.

Greason said the idea for the bill arose in December after noticing that large amounts of snow piled at intersections prevented vehicles from triggering sensors that activate green traffic signals. Seeing this, he figured the issue likely posed even more of a hassle for smaller vehicles, like motorcycles. Then, over casual conversation with another delegate, he learned that South Carolina recently enacted a law that allowed motorcyclists to treat red lights like stop signs. So why not in Virginia, he thought.

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“Any person who violates this subsection shall be subject to a civil penalty of $25 to be paid into the state treasury and credited to the Literary Fund, and no court costs shall be assessed.”

Take Care – Ride FREE

This would allow a rider to proceed through a red traffic light after coming to a complete stop and waiting 120 seconds.
HB752
Traffic lights; allows motorcycle, etc., to proceed through intersections showing steady red signal.

This changes Virginia’s helmet law to include those mini-scooters, pocket bikes, and what not.
HB395
Motorcycles; helmet use. Removes exception that allows operators and passengers riding on motorcycles with wheels of eight inches or less to ride without wearing a helmet.

Not specifically motorcycle related, but this is one that we have tried to change in years past to make it legal for 2 motorcycles to ride side by side.
HB163
Vehicles driving abreast. Provides that the prohibition on vehicles driving abreast does not apply to vehicles lawfully overtaking and passing vehicles traveling in the same direction.

BAD! – Loud Pipes Save Lives!!! HB579
Mufflers on motorcycles. Provides that motorcycles shall use a muffler system in good working order that meets federal standards.

I am sure this one comes from one of the talking points from last couple years two abreast bills with us saying LEOs regularly ride two abreast.
SB321
Motorcycles driving two abreast; law-enforcement officers. Allows law-enforcement officers on official duty to drive motorcycles two abreast in a single lane.

Here is a link to the motorcycle search results… (May or may not work) There are a few others with the mention of motorcycle in them, but the bills are not specifically motorcycle related.

Anyone know of anything else going on or any other bills that we, as motorcycle riders, may be interested in?

For more information:
Website: www.vabikersassoc.org
http://www.vabikersassoc.org/thunder_in_the_mountain_2010.htm

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Forbes commented, “While motorcycling is fun recreation and affordable transportation, it is important to remain focused on safety. The Motorcycle Safety Caucus encourages motorcyclists to get trained and licensed, obey traffic laws, avoid mixing riding with alcohol and wear proper, motorcycle-specific safety gear, but it doesn’t stop with riders. The Caucus serves to also remind other motorists that motorcyclists use the roads as well, and to remember to look for motorcycles particularly when turning or changing lanes.”

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If you are out and about trying to get into the holiday spirit, be safe. Lot of folks on the road, especially around malls and shopping centers with more on their minds than watching out for motorcycles. Have fun and be safe.

Now for the biker babe of the week – Enjoy…

What do we have to do to get noticed?