Rockland County Reminds Residents About Bike Safety Essentials

NEW CITY, NY —May is National Bike Month, and Rockland County officials are reminding residents about bike safety basics and the importance of getting bikes tuned-up and inspected before cycling this spring.

In a release, county officials said wearing a helmet is not only the single most effective way to prevent head injuries resulting from a cycling crash, but it's also the law in Rockland County. All cyclists, regardless of age, must wear a helmet.

Dr. Patricia Schnabel Ruppert, Rockland County health commissioner, said there are many great reasons to ride a bike, including: fun, freedom, exercise and to avoid motorized vehicle trips, which are not good for the environment. But Ruppert said it's important to ride defensively.

"By law, bicycles on the roadway are vehicles with the same rights and responsibilities as motorized vehicles. To avoid crashes, be focused and alert to the road and all traffic around you, and anticipate what others may do before they do it," Dr. Ruppert said.

Ruppert said there are many bike safety rules riders need to follow, including:

• Ride single file in the direction of traffic.
• Use hand signals when turning and use extra care at intersections.
• Before entering traffic, stop and look left, right, left again and over your shoulder.
• Wear bright clothing and ride during the day.
• If night riding can't be avoided, wear reflective clothing.
• Make sure your bike has reflectors on the bike frame in the front and back, pedals and spokes, as well as a horn or bell. A rear-view mirror and a bright headlight are also recommended.
• Do not wear earbuds when cycling. If you must stay connected, wear only one in your right ear.
• No child under 1 year old is permitted as a passenger on a bicycle.

County officials also suggest that residents who have not taken their bike out for a while, should make sure the bike is still fully operational. A few ways to check the bike are:

• Inspect the tires to see if they need air.
• Spin the wheels to make sure the tires are not worn.
• Check the brakes. Test them to make sure they can stop on dry pavement.
• Make sure the bike frame is secure, and chains should not be rusted or black with grime.
• Make sure the seat is secure.
• Take the bike for a short trial ride in a parking lot or safe area to be sure the bike is in working order.

"We all must understand that the roads are shared by bicyclists, pedestrians and vehicles, and a failure to achieve peaceful coexistence can result in tragedy," said Ed Day, Rockland county executive. "It is everyone's responsibility to be smart and respectful on the roads to keep yourself and your family safe."

According to the release, the Rockland County Department of Health is working with the Rockland County Department of Public Transportation and the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee to educate the community on traffic, bicycle and pedestrian safety measures. More information is available online or by calling the health department at 845-364-3755.