DOS
May 09, 2023
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CONSUMER ALERT: The New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection Reminds New Yorkers to Wear Their Bike Helmets |
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During National Bike Safety Month this May, New Yorkers are Urged to Wear Helmets to Reduce the Risk of Severe Head Injury and Save Lives Follow the New York Department of State on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for “Tuesday’s Tips” – Practical Tips to Educate and Empower New York Consumers on a Variety of Topics Secretary Robert J. Rodriguez: “As New Yorkers across the state begin to take advantage of the warmer weather by biking in one of our state’s many beautiful bike trails, parks or streets, I urge all riders to put on their helmets and proper safety gear before beginning their adventures on two wheels.” For this week’s “Tuesday’s Tips,” the New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection is reminding New Yorkers of all ages of the importance of wearing a helmet when riding a bike. May is National Bike Safety Month, and as the weather begins to get warmer and individuals have more opportunities for outdoor activities, New Yorkers are urged to make safety a priority by wearing helmets, which will reduce the risk of severe head injury and save lives. Follow the New York Department of State on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and check in every Tuesday for more practical tips that educate and empower New York consumers on a variety of topics. Sign up to receive consumer alerts directly to your email or phone here. “Helmets are not just for children, they are a vital piece of safety equipment that can save the lives of bikers of all ages,” said New York Secretary of State Robert J. Rodriguez. “As New Yorkers across the state begin to take advantage of the warmer weather by biking in one of our state’s many beautiful bike trails, parks or streets, I urge all riders to put on their helmets and proper safety gear before beginning their adventures on two wheels.” In 2021, according to preliminary data from the Institute for Traffic Safety Management and Research, 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. DMV Commissioner and Chair of the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee Mark J.F. Schroeder said, “As spring weather warms up and turns into summer, more New Yorkers will be taking advantage of riding a bike for enjoyment and exercise. That means when you’re moving on four wheels, you need to be more aware of those moving on two wheels. It is on all of us to look out for each other to make sure our state’s roadways and roadsides are safe for everyone.” State Parks Commissioner Erik Kulleseid said, “Biking is an amazing recreational activity and something that should be enjoyed safely. Whether exploring a state park or the thousands of miles of scenic trails that New York State provides, it’s important to always stay alert and wear a helmet.” Empire State Development Vice President and Executive Director of Tourism Ross D. Levi said, “Exploring New York by bicycle is a great way to experience the state, from the Empire State Trail, to scenic food and wine trails, to lakeside routes and mountain adventures. I LOVE NY encourages all cyclists to better ensure they stay safe while finding what they love during their New York State getaway.” Stay Safe by Choosing and Wearing Helmets Safely:
More details and tips from the CPSC are available here. Ride Responsibly:
Explore New York’s Bicycle Trails: Learn more about New York State’s Bicycle Trails. New York State has a wide variety of cycling opportunities and information available for New Yorkers. Learn more about our state's extensive network of both on- and off-road bicycle facilities and educational resources.
About the New York State Division of Consumer Protection 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 Twitter: @NYSConsumer and Facebook: www.facebook.com/nysconsumer. |
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