Suffolk County Legislature Cracks Down On Reckless Bicyclists

SUFFOLK COUNTY, NY — Suffolk Legislators passed a law on Tuesday to help prevent the growing issue of reckless bicycling in the county. Officials say they passed the law after finding this to be a huge problem in the area with instances of minors being seriously injured or killed in accidents due to reckless bicycling.

"Some people operating bicycles in Suffolk County are doing so in a manner that is dangerous to cars, pedestrians, and the bicyclists themselves," a statement from the Suffolk County Legislature read.

Residents have complained of some bicyclists weaving in and out of traffic, approaching traffic head-on, or just riding in ways that are dangerous to cars and pedestrians as well as the bicyclist.

Now, under the new law it will be a considered a violation for bicyclists to "trick ride, weave or zig-zag" unless necessary. It will also mean that bicyclists cannot ride with more than one earphone or headphone, without at least one hand on the handles, or with more than one person on the bicycle.

The law also covers a range of issues including: equipment requirements such as headlights, taillights and a bell or horn; applicability of traffic laws and operation of bicycles on roadways; operation under the influence of alcohol or drugs; and compliance with traffic signal control devices.

Those who are found to be reckless bicycling can face up to a $250 fine. Any person violating the equipment requirements will receive a written warning. The law also allows for the police department to impound bicycles under certain circumstances.

In addition, the parent of any child under the age of 14 who is on a bicycle and not wearing a helmet could face a fine of $50.

Those guilty of operating a bicycle under the influence of drugs or alcohol will be subject to the same sanctions as those who drive a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, except that a violation incurred while operating a bicycle would not affect the status of the person’s driver’s license.

Click here to read the full law.

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