CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The month of May is National Bicycle Safety Month. On Friday, May 15, 2026, the West Virginia Governor’s Highway Safety Program encourages commuters to swap their cars for bikes in celebration of National Bike to Work Day.
The annual event highlights cycling as a sustainable, cost-effective and healthy way to commute. In partnership with the U.S. Department of Transportation National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the GHSP reminds all road users to stay alert and prioritize cyclist safety.
“It is imperative that we keep our bicyclists safe, as they are an integral part of our communities,” said GHSP Director Jack McNeely. “People of all ages use bicycles to commute to school, work, and other activities. Bicyclists, like all road users, have the right to safe streets. We encourage bicyclists to become familiar with area laws, practice safe habits, and always wear a helmet.”
Tips for bicyclists before heading out:
- Make sure your bicycle is the right size for you. It is difficult to control a bike if it’s not the right size.
- In addition to a properly fitting bike helmet, a bicyclist should wear bright clothing during the day and reflective gear at night to make them more visible on the road.
- Affix a white front light and red rear light and reflectors to the bicycle for nighttime riding or when visibility is poor.
“Biking to work is about more than fitness; it’s about reimagining how we navigate our communities,” continued McNeely. “For those with a manageable commute, I encourage you to gear up and experience your community from a new perspective.”
Why bike to work?
- Environmental impact: Swapping a car for a bike significantly reduces carbon emissions and eases local traffic congestion.
- Wellness: Cycling is a low-impact cardiovascular workout proven to reduce stress and boost mental clarity.
- Economic savings: With fluctuating fuel costs, bicycle commuting offers a high-return investment for daily travel.
Tips for bicyclists on the road:
- Drive in the same direction as traffic. Obey street signs, signals and road markings.
- Do not drive distracted. Keep eyes, ears and focus on the road and traffic.
- Watch for pedestrians and pass them with care by first announcing “on your left/right” or by using a bell.
- When crossing a street, slow down and look for traffic left-right-left and behind. Be prepared to stop, follow traffic signals and never assume drivers will see the bicyclist.
- Avoid sidewalks.
For more safety tips and information on bicycle safety, including helpful videos, visit NHTSA.gov/BicycleSafety.
For more information about the West Virginia Governor’s Highway Safety Program, visit highwaysafety.wv.gov.
