Safety Laws in New York

Helmets

Motorcycles

Helmets are mandatory for all riders.

Bicycles

All riders under the age of 14 are required to wear a helmet.

Headlights

Vehicles

Headlights must be turned on:

• When visibility is reduced to 1,000 feet or less.

• One half-hour after sunset until one half-hour before sunrise.

• Whenever using windshield wipers in rain or snow.

Motorcycles

Headlights must be on during the day.

Bicycles

A white headlight visible up to 500 feet and a red taillight visible up to 300 feet must be used when riding between a half-hour after sunset and a half-hour before sunrise.

Cell Phones and Texting

It is illegal to use a hand-held cell phone while driving. Hands-free cell phones, however, are legal.

Texting is banned for all drivers while behind the wheel.

Child Car Seat Laws

• Any child younger than four must ride in a federally approved child safety seat that's properly secured by a safety belt or a universal child restraint anchorage system.

• As of November 24, 2009, all children younger than eight years old must be secured in a child safety seat restraint system. This includes safety seats, harness vests and booster seats attached via safety belts.

• Any child younger than four, but who weighs more than 40 pounds, may be secured in a booster seat with a lap and shoulder belt.

• If all safety seats are occupied, a child who would normally require a booster seat should instead be secured by a lap belt.

• Every rider younger than 16 must use a seat belt.

If you're in the market for one, you can shop online for a child car seat at any time. When ordering, be sure the car seat matches your child's height, weight and age.

Reporting a Drunk or Dangerous Driver

Dial 911 if you suspect a driver of being drunk and/or dangerous. Provide the vehicle's license plate number, make, model, location and travel direction.

Reporting an Unattended Child Left Inside a Vehicle

If you harbor any reason to believe that an unattended child left inside a vehicle is at risk, do not hesitate to call 911. Remain with the vehicle until authorities arrive.

Reporting an Unattended Pet Left Inside a Vehicle

If you suspect that an unattended pet left inside a vehicle is in danger due to heat or cold, call the local police or animal control unit.

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