CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) — A newly introduced bill in the West Virginia House of Delegates would make it a misdemeanor for pedestrians to stand in roadways or roadside right-of-ways, citing safety risks for both drivers and those on foot.
House Bill 5348 would add a new section to state traffic law specifically prohibiting anyone from standing in a roadway or on a highway right-of-way. Lawmakers behind the proposal say people lingering in or near travel lanes create “significant public safety hazards” and increase the risk of serious accidents.
Under the bill, violations would carry escalating fines:
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Up to $100 for a first offense
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Up to $200 for a second offense within one year
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Up to $500 for a third or subsequent offense
Each violation would be charged as a misdemeanor.
The measure was introduced February 9, 2026, and has been referred to the House Judiciary Committee for review. If passed, it would create a clear statewide rule barring pedestrians from standing in active roadways and designated right-of-way areas.
