Jacobs Encourages Residents to Observe Bike Safety Laws

Mineola, NY -Bicycle riding can be great fun but it can also be dangerous if you don't ride properly. In an effort to ensure everyone's safety, Nassau County Presiding Officer Judy Jacobs (D-Woodbury) and the Nassau County Police Department expect the public to observe certain rules and traffic laws whenever they ride their bicycle.

The following traffic laws apply to all bicycles.

• Bicyclists must obey all rules of the road (i.e. traffic signs and signals, ride on the right, move with the flow of traffic, and stop at intersections). Bicyclists must use authorized hand signals.
• All riders under the age of 14 are required by New York State law to wear a properly fitting, approved bicycle helmet. Use of the helmet is recommended for all cyclists.
• Bicyclists who violate the law are subject to traffic tickets. A parent can be held responsible for violations committed by their minor children.
• All bicycles must have the following equipment - lights: front-white, rear-red, reflectors, adequate brakes, and a bell or horn.

SAFETY RULES FOR ALL BICYCLE RIDERS

• Drive close to the right side of the road, in single file, and pass parked cars with care.
• Give the right-of-way to pedestrians.
• Walk your bicycle across busy intersections.
• Sit on the bicycle seat when riding and never carry extra passengers - no trick riding!
• Never hitch rides on vehicles.
• Never carry anything that will prevent you from keeping at least one hand on the handlebars at all times.
• Drive on bicycle paths wherever they are provided.
• Maintain your bicycle.
• Serious head injuries pose the greatest danger to bicyclists: helmets significantly reduce this risk. Every bicyclist, regardless of age, should wear an approved helmet.

The Seventh Precinct is asking for your help in keeping everyone safe on the road this season. Please follow the above rules and laws so that we can all have a safe and enjoyable spring and summer.

BE SEEN, BE SAFE! Wear bright and/or reflective clothing, especially after dark. Happy riding!