Common and Uncommon Bicycle Laws in New York

Living in New York requires a lot of patience, especially with the increase in traffic. Thankfully, bicycling is a great mode of transportation and New York is designed to assist cyclists. However, if you are planning to bike in the state, then you will need to know the laws in case you are involved in an accident. While this article will tell you some of the most known laws in the state, you will want to contact the Brooklyn bicycle accident lawyers at the Levitsky Law Firm if you were involved in an accident.

Laws Where to Ride

While bicycles are not classified as vehicles, they do have some of the same rules of the road as vehicles. This means the basic traffic laws that apply to drivers will also apply to cyclists, such as stop signs and traffic lights. In New York, you must stay in the far-right lane, or the bike lane if it is available. The only time you may leave the furthest right lane is if you are preparing to turn left or you are avoiding obstacles.

What many do not realize is that there are also some uncommon laws of where you are allowed to bike in New York. For example, if you are over the age of 13, you are also not allowed to ride on sidewalks or in parks.

Working Cyclist Laws

If you are using a bicycle as a form of work transportation, there are more laws in the state that apply as well. All cyclists that are riding a bike for work must have a helmet provided to them from the company and the rider must wear it. The business will also need to maintain a current log of all cyclists that includes their address, name, date of employment, and information on all trips taken. This log must be submitted annually.

Laws Regarding Equipment

Unlike most states in the US, New York has a helmet law for minors and it is enforced. All children under the age of 14 must be wearing a helmet and children under the age of one are not allowed on bicycles. The more common laws for bicyclists include needing lights and reflectors during times of dusk to dawn, bells, and brakes must work properly.

Finally, when you are bicycling in New York, you cannot have more than one ear plugged with an audio device so you can hear traffic around you. If you have further questions or need clarification on the laws, it is wise to talk to the Brooklyn bicycle accident lawyers at Levitsky Law Firm.