NYC Bicycle Safety
The New York City Police Department has issued the following guidelines to help keep your riding both safe and legal.
Obey Traffic Laws
Bikers must obey all traffic signs, signals and pavement markings and otherwise follow the rules of the road that apply to motor vehicles. For example, bikers must stop at a stop sign or red light, ride in the correct direction on a one-way street and use hand signals when turning. In traffic, bikers should ride on the far right. Adults must carry identification.
Do Not Ride on Sidewalks
Sidewalks are for pedestrians. Under City regulations, operating a bike on a sidewalk is illegal. Children, age twelve and under, riding bikes with wheels less than 26 inches in diameter, are exempt.
Use Bells
Bikers must equip their bikes with a bell or other audible signal. Whistles alone are not sufficient.
Use Headlights
All bikes must be equipped with a white headlight and a red taillight which must be used from dusk to dawn.
Children Must Wear Helmets
Children age twelve and under must wear a safety helmet. Of course, it is always a good safety practice to wear a helmet, regardless of your age. Children less than five years of age must ride in a safety seat.
Use Reflectors
Bikers must equip their bikes with reflectors on both wheels. Reflective material attached to other parts of the bike will help make you visible to drivers in low light conditions.
Do Not Ride on Highways
City regulations forbid biking on expressways, drives, highways, interstate routes and thruways.
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