Bicycle Helmets and Safety

Bicycle Safety

In the United States in 2011, 677 bicyclists were killed in motor vehicle crashes. The 14-and-younger age group accounted for 9% of those fatalities; 69% of them boys.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) promotes bicycle safety for all ages. For more information, check out their website.

Bike Helmets and NY State Law

By law, all bicyclists under the age of 14 are required to wear approved bicycle helmets when bicycling or riding as passengers on bicycles in New York State. The maximum penalty for an offense is a $50 fine. However, if a parent can prove that a helmet has been obtained, the fine will be waived.

For Parents

Kids grow like weeds! Have your kids outgrown their bike helmets? Click here to find out exactly how a bike helmet should fit.

Trouble affording a helmet for your son or daughter? Ontario County Public Health in partnership with law enforcement agencies in the county have a limited supply of helmets for distribution. Call 585-396-4343 for more information.

For Kids

How's Your Helmet Fit?

You probably grew a lot since last summer! Does your helmet feel a bit too tight? Or maybe you've inherited your head gear from an older brother or sister and it feels a bit wobbly. Your helmet is all that comes between you and the road. Make sure it fits right! Check out your fit here.

For more information about bike safety, check out these great links!

NY State Department of Transportation

Safe NY

Bike Safety Toolkit for Educators

Bike Safety Kids Page

Bike Safety Coloring Page