Ride Smart, Ride Safe: Rockland County Promotes Bicycle Safety

May is National Bicycle Safety Month - Don’t Forget Your Helmet!

NEW CITY, NY, - This May, the Rockland County Department of Health recognizes National Bicycle Safety Month by reminding residents of all ages to ride safely and help prevent injuries on local roads and trails. Wearing a properly fitted helmet remains the single most effective way to protect against serious head injuries. In Rockland County, wearing a helmet is the law - all bicyclists, regardless of age, must wear a helmet when riding.

Rockland’s scenic roads and trails attract many cyclists, but they also pose risks. According to 2024 data from the Traffic Safety Statistical Repository (TSSR), there were a total of 84 bicycle crashes in Rockland County, including one fatality, and 83 injury incidents. This data highlights the ongoing need for pedestrian and traffic safety awareness in our county.

“National Bicycle Safety Month is a perfect time to remind our community about the importance of staying safe on the roads,” said Dr. Mary Leahy, Rockland County Commissioner of Health. “With so many cyclists, pedestrians, and drivers out and about, it's vital for all of us to stay alert, follow safety guidelines, and share the road responsibly.”

The New York State Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee encourages bicyclists to follow these tips and New York State laws:

Be Predictable

• Ride with traffic, not against it, and stay as far to the right as possible.

• Use hand signals and obey traffic signs and signals.

• Never hold on to moving vehicles.

Be Seen

• Don't assume drivers see you; make eye contact when possible.

• Use headlights, taillights, and reflectors; wear light-colored or reflective clothing.

• Use a bell, horn, or your voice to alert others.

Be Careful

• Avoid construction zones, congested streets, and complicated intersections when you can.

• Keep bicycle tires, brakes, and safety equipment in good working order.

• Stay aware of your surroundings and know your bicycle’s limitations.

Be Smart

• Always wear a helmet.

• Avoid distractions - don’t use your phone, and if you are listening to music, use only one earbud.

For more information, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration - Bike Safety or the Rockland County Safe Streets webpage.

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