New bicycle laws take effect in Virginia on July 1st Sharing the road could be the difference between life and death Published: Tags: LYNCHBURG, Va. – Two new laws are adding an extra layer of safety for cyclists across the Commonwealth. “I had a good friend … who was killed about 10 years ago here on the road; so it’s become very important for us,” said Brad Malcolm, a Lynchburg cyclist. “Some people don’t have the leisure of having a vehicle. Some people only have a bike,” said John Seinar, owner of Bikes Unlimited in Downtown Lynchburg. Beginning July 1st, drivers are required to changes lanes when passing cyclists unless the lane is exceptionally wide.