• Safety Laws in New York

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    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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