HB 1464, the motorcycle auxiliary light bill that was introduced by Delegate Roxann Robinson at the request of the Virginia Coalition of Motorcyclists (VCOM) was signed by the Governor. The bill will become law as of July 1, 2018.
As of July 1st, Virginia motorcyclists will be able to utilize aftermarket lighting to improve visibility even if such lighting is not approved by the Superintendent of the Virginia State Police, or any other federal agency or safety organization. Below is the language that the bill added to 46.2-1012 of the Code of Virginia:
Notwithstanding § 46.2-1002, motorcycles or autocycles may be equipped with standard bulb running lights or light-emitting diode (LED) pods or strips as auxiliary lighting. Such lighting shall be (i) either red or amber in color, (ii) directed toward the ground in such a manner that no part of the beam will strike the level of the surface on which the motorcycle or autocycle stands at a distance of more than 10 feet from the vehicle, and (iii) designed for vehicular use. Such lighting shall not (a) project a beam of light of an intensity greater than 25 candlepower or its equivalent from a single lamp or bulb; (b) be blinking, flashing, oscillating, or rotating; or (c) be attached to the wheels of the motorcycle or autocycle.
Thank you to everyone who worked to pass this legislation, and thank you to each and every one of you who took the time to send an email or write a letter in support of this bill. As always, this was a group effort.
If you have any questions about this bill or any other matters concerning motorcycle related laws, do not hesitate to reach out to me.
Matt Danielson
McGrath, Danielson, Sorrell & Fuller
The Motorcycle Law Group
1-800-321-8968
Motorcyclelawgroup.com