Pedestrian safety is a growing concern nationwide, and Virginia is responding with stronger protections for those most at risk. Vulnerable road users are people who travel on roads without operating a car. This includes bicyclists, pedestrians, wheelchair users, and other non-motorists. In 2020, Virginia passed the Vulnerable Road Use Law, increasing traffic penalties from a traffic infraction to a Class 1 misdemeanor for careless or distracted driving that seriously injures or kills vulnerable road users. 

Vulnerable road users continue to be at risk for serious injury or death. In 2023, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported more than 68,000 pedestrian injuries and  7,314 pedestrian fatalities, one fatality every 72 minutes. In 2024, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles reported 1,719 pedestrian injuries and 621 bicyclist injuries. With stronger traffic laws in place to protect vulnerable road users, many deaths and injuries can be prevented.

On July 1st, all bills that passed the 2025 General Assembly session became laws in Virginia. One of the bills that became law will strengthen traffic penalties for drivers who seriously injure or kill vulnerable road users. 

SB 1416 – Strengthens traffic penalties when drivers seriously injure or kill vulnerable road users. Drivers who injure or kill vulnerable road users legally crossing in crosswalks can be charged with a Class 1 misdemeanor. This will include a $2,500 fine and up to 1 year in jail.

Strengthening traffic penalties will hold drivers accountable and reduce the amount of injuries and deaths for vulnerable road users, making our roads safer for everyone. When people feel safer moving through their communities without a car, it fosters a culture of shared responsibility and respect among all road users.

This new law will not just save lives and prevent injuries, but it also will have tremendous positive effects on public health and transportation. Enhanced road safety promotes healthier, more sustainable alternatives to car travel and makes transportation more equitable and inclusive.