

Riding with traffic also reduces confusion for fellow cyclists, drivers, and pedestrians. This is the safest practice considering bikers are required to obey the same laws that apply to motor vehicles.Īs you can imagine, riding with the flow of traffic allows cyclists to obey traffic signs (such as traffic lights and stop signs) and signal to other drivers and riders accordingly. New York law requires bikers to ride with traffic, not against it.

Should bikers ride with or against traffic? For example, Rockland County and Erie County require helmets for all bikers riding on county property. Keep in mind that certain New York communities may have passed local ordinances that require helmet use for riders of all ages. Studies also show that wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of head injury (such as traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding) by 85%. Of these, 2/3 of fatalities and 1/3 of injuries involve injury to the head and face. An additional 500,000 cyclists end up in hospital emergency rooms on an annual basis. alone, there are 800 biking fatalities each year. However, it’s always best practice to wear sufficient safety equipment while biking. Only bikers under the age of 14 are required to wear a helmet under New York Law.

Consider the following answers to common FAQs about bicycling in New York. It’s important to understand that the same laws that apply to motor vehicle operators (with a few obvious exceptions) also apply to cyclists on NY roads.Ĭonsidering the vast differences between riding a bike and driving a vehicle, you may be wondering how cyclists and drivers are expected to lawfully coexist, especially in the hustle and bustle of New York City. 7 New York Cyclist Laws Every Biker Should Know Are you familiar with your biker rights in NY? Keep reading to learn more about cyclist laws in New York. If you’re a biker who was injured in a bicycle accident as a result of careless driving, it’s crucial to understand New York laws so you can collect the compensation you rightfully deserve. Whether you’re a biker or a driver, it’s imperative for anyone operating a means of transportation to understand traffic regulations to stay safe on the roads. Obeying state cyclist laws could save your life. Not only can it help you avoid unwanted fees and traffic tickets, but it also protects your safety. There are various reasons why it’s important for bikers to obey cyclist laws.
