New York State Division of Consumer Protection
The New York State Division of Consumer Protection (DCP) and the New York State Governor's Traffic Safety Committee (GTSC) alert New Yorkers, of all ages, the importance of wearing a
helmet when riding a bike. The warmer weather provides individuals more
opportunities for outdoor activities. During National Bike Safety month, New
Yorkers are urged to make safety a priority by wearing helmets which will
reduce the risk of severe head injury and save lives.
Helmets are vital safety gear
that saves lives, when we are exercising and enjoying a bike ride with family
and friends. As the
summertime is upon us and New Yorkers enjoy the warm weather biking in the state’s many
beautiful bike trails, parks and on the streets, please be
smart while having adventures on two-wheels by wearing a helmet and proper gear
while riding a bike.
In 2021, according to
preliminary data from the Institute for Traffic Safety Management and Research
(ITSMR), there were 1,455 police-reported bicycle crashes statewide in which a
helmet was used. Of those, seven crashes resulted in at least one fatality, and
121 crashes resulted in at least one serious injury. In comparison, there were
3,946 police-reported bicycle crashes statewide in which a helmet was not used.
Of those, 32 crashes resulted in at least one fatality, and 378 crashes
resulted in in at least one serious injury.
“The statistics clearly show
that wearing a helmet while bicycling significantly reduces the chances of
death or serious injury in the event of a crash,” said GTSC Chair Mark Schroeder. “Please wear a helmet every time you ride a
bicycle. It could save your life.”
Consumers stay safe by choosing
and wearing their helmets safely:
- Pair
the activity to the helmet. You shouldn’t wear just any helmet
to go bike riding. Different activities can result in different impact to
your head. Use a helmet that fits the activity, so if an accident occurs,
you are better protected.
- Read
the directions. With helmets, it’s important
to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Every helmet can fit and
operate differently.
- Make
sure it fits. Bike helmets should have
a snug but comfortable fit on the rider's head. The National Highway
Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also has a guide on properly fitting bicycle helmets, helmet certifications and
laws, and more.
- Buckle
up! A helmet only works when it is worn properly for
the duration of an activity. Make sure your helmet has a chin strap and
buckle that lays flat and stays fastened. Wear your helmet level on your
forehead, not tilted back.
- Conform
to regulations. The CPSC oversees helmets
for many activities, including bike riding. For instance, bicycle helmets
must conform to five separate standards[1].
When buying a bike helmet, look for the label that reads: “Complies with
U.S. CPSC Safety Standards for Bicycle Helmet.” Don’t add anything to the
helmet, such as stickers, coverings, or other attachments, that didn’t
come with the helmet upon purchase. These could affect the helmet’s
performance.
- After
a crash or injury, replace. Once a helmet protects a
person from a fall, it should no longer be used. Any damage to a helmet
can reduce its effectiveness. Replace it before the next ride.
- Replace
your helmet when needed. You should follow the
manufacturer’s guide for when to replace your helmet. If no guidance is
provided, helmets should generally be replaced within 5-10 years of
purchase if properly cared for and stored. If there are cracks in the
shell, worn foam lining, or other such imperfections that may occur during
regular use, you should consider replacing it.
More details and tips from the
CPSC here.
The New York State Governor's
Traffic Safety Committee coordinates traffic safety activities in the state and
shares useful, timely information about traffic safety and the state's highway
safety grant program.
The New York State Division of
Consumer Protection provides resources and education materials to consumers on
product safety, as well as voluntary mediation services between consumers and
businesses. The Consumer Assistance Helpline 1-800-697-1220 is available Monday
to Friday from 8:30am to 4:30pm, excluding State Holidays, and consumer
complaints can be filed at any time at www.dos.ny.gov/consumer-protection.
For more consumer protection
tips, follow the Division on social media at X: @NYSConsumer and Facebook: www.facebook.com/nysconsumer.
[1] ASTM F1447, F18981 (A helmet that complies with this standard is designed for use by infants and toddlers in activities involving non-motorized wheeled vehicles.); Snell B-90A, B-95, N-942 (A helmet that complies with this standard is designed to withstand more than one moderate impact, but protection is provided for only a limited number of impacts. Replace if visibly damaged (e.g., a cracked shell or crushed liner) and/or when directed by the manufacturer.)
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