Bicycle Safety

Family riding bicycles together

According to the New York City Department of Transportation, commuter cycling increased 262% in New York City from 2000 to 2010. Cycling is certainly a healthy, and environmentally friendly way to get around, but what are the rules of the road for cyclists?

Did you know that cyclists are subject to the same regulations as drivers of motor vehicles?

Here are some additional rules cyclists must follow, as well as safety tips for riders:

.  Ride in the street, not on the sidewalks (unless rider is age 12 or younger and the bicycle’s wheels are less than 26 inches in diameter).

.  Ride with traffic, not against it. Do not weave in and out of traffic.

.  Stop at red lights and stop signs and obey all traffic signals, signs and pavement markings.

.  Use marked bike lanes or paths when available. Bicycling is permitted on all main and local streets throughout the City, even when no designated route exists.

. When riding at night, use a white headlight and a red taillight, as well as a bell or horn and reflectors.

.  Look, signal and look again before changing lanes or making a turn. Establish eye contact with drivers. Seeing a driver is often not enough. Make sure drivers see you before executing a turn or riding in front of a turning car.

.  Watch out for car doors. Be prepared for the possibility that a car door may be opened in your path.

.  Use your bell. It alerts drivers, pedestrians and other cyclists to your presence, and it is required by law.

.  Don’t wear earphones. By law you may wear one earbud, but keeping your ears clear is a much safer choice.

.  Wear a helmet. While, helmets are required by law for children age 13 or younger and working cyclists, they are a good idea for cyclists of all ages.

For more information on bicycle safety, go to NYC.gov

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.