Should You Ride Your Bike on the Sidewalk in Charleston, WV?

Riding your bicycle on a sidewalk in Charleston, WV, is generally prohibited. Thus, despite there being some safety benefits to doing so, the answer to the question, “Can you ride a bike on the sidewalk while in Charleston?” is generally no. However, there are exceptions, and this prohibition does not apply to other areas of West Virginia. If a bicyclist is injured in a collision under these circumstances, they may need to file a personal injury claim to recover damages.

Statistics About Riding on the Sidewalk

Approximately 22 percent of bicyclists nationwide ride their bikes on the sidewalk rather than the roadway. Although the reasons for this may vary, some undoubtedly do so, believing it is safer than riding on the road. By riding along a sidewalk, you are physically separated from motor vehicles that could be traveling at elevated speeds.

Dangers of Riding on the Sidewalk

Those bicyclists who choose to ride on the sidewalk must be aware of the special dangers involved.

Pedestrian Safety

Pedestrians have the right of way on sidewalks, and bicyclists must always ride in a way that protects them from danger. Pedestrians’ movements can be unpredictable, and a bicyclist who is not paying attention can unintentionally collide with someone on foot.

Driveways

Motorists may not expect to see a bicyclist on the sidewalk and may, therefore, not check these areas when entering or leaving a driveway. This puts a greater burden on you, the cyclist, to watch driveways and alleyways for vehicles.

Penalties For Violations

Riding on the sidewalk in Charleston is against the law and can subject you to a $10.00 fine for each occurrence.

These are just a few of the considerations you must keep in mind when deciding, “Should I ride my bike on the road or the sidewalk in Charleston, WV?”

Exceptions to Charleston’s Sidewalk Ordinance

Although few in number, there are exceptions to the general prohibition against riding a bike on a sidewalk in Charleston. 

Walking Your Bike

You can walk your bicycle on the sidewalk without violating the city’s ordinance. In this case, you are considered a pedestrian because you are not mounted on your bicycle. You can also use a sidewalk to lean your bike against a building, so long as you do not block the sidewalk.

Bike Lanes

Bike lanes are paved travel lanes adjacent to roads meant solely for bicyclist use. These are not technically sidewalks, and so cyclists can use them without fear of any penalty. Although bicyclists are encouraged to use these lanes, they are not legally required to do so.

Outside City Limits

Charleston’s ordinance is only applicable within the city’s limits. There is no statewide prohibition against riding your bike on the sidewalk. Therefore, if you wish to ride your bike in another community besides Charleston, you may be able to do so. You should consult that city’s laws and ordinances before riding on the sidewalk.

Riding on the Sidewalk in Charleston, WV

Bicyclists in Charleston do not have much of a choice when it comes to riding their bikes on the sidewalk. In most cases, they cannot legally do so. Not only can they face a fine, but they could also be at risk of colliding with a pedestrian or a motor vehicle that is exiting from a driveway or alleyway. 

In the limited situations where you are permitted to travel with your bike on or near a sidewalk, remain alert for other traffic. Crosswalks and driveways can be dangerous places for bicyclists, even if you are walking your bike across the street or using a bike lane. Exercising greater caution in these places is warranted and can help prevent you from suffering harm.