What protective equipment is required for bicyclists?
• In New York State, all bicyclists age one through 13 are required to wear approved bicycle helmets when they are operators or passengers on bicycles (Sec. 1238 (5)). Child passengers one through four must wear approved bicycle helmets and ride in child safety seats. Children under one year old are prohibited from being transported on a bicycle (Sec. 1238 (1)(2)). Any person who violates these provisions is subject to a fine of up to $50 dollars Sec. 1238 (3), (6) (a)). The law directs a police officer to issue a summons for such a violation to the parent or guardian of the child but never to the child (Sec. 1238 (8)). • Certain localities within the State of New York have passed local ordinances regarding helmet use. For example, Rockland and Erie Counties require all people riding bicycles on county property, regardless of age, to wear an approved bicycle helmet. • Serious head injuries pose the greatest danger to bicyclists: helmets significantly reduce this risk. Every bicyclist,
