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Senate approves motorcycle-safety bill allowing riders to stand on foot pegs while moving
Summary
The Senate passed a bill allowing riders of motorcycles, motor-driven cycles and mopeds to stand on foot pegs or pedals while the vehicle is moving; the measure passed 27–6 with one absent after some senators described it as unnecessary while others defended it as a safety measure for riders.
The West Virginia Senate approved an engrossed committee substitute for House Bill 2752, a motorcycle-safety measure that permits riders of motorcycles, motor-driven cycles and mopeds to stand on the vehicles’ foot pegs or pedals while the vehicle is moving.
Supporters said permitting riders to stand on foot pegs improves control and acts like a shock absorber over rough pavement, reducing the risk of accidents caused by leg cramps or poor circulation. The senator identified on the floor as the sponsor described standing on foot pegs as a common technique that provides control when encountering bumps.
Opponents criticized the measure as frivolous and said it is not an appropriate legislative priority given other statewide issues. One senator characterized the bill as a “late-night comedy hour” bill and said he intended to cast a no vote as a message.
The clerk closed the voting machine and announced the tally: 27 yays, 6 nays, 1 absent; the presiding officer declared the bill passed and directed the clerk to communicate the action to the House.
Why it matters: The statutory change modifies permitted rider behavior on public roads; supporters framed it as a safety and control provision, opponents framed its priority and necessity as questionable. The measure passed with a clear majority.
