The same laws that apply to other drivers, with some obvious exceptions and special rules, apply to cyclists. Most importantly, bicyclists must obey, and are also protected by, the rules of the road (Sec. 1231).

Bicyclists must obey all traffic lights and signs, and must signal for turns whether driving on a roadway, a bike lane or bike path. Likewise, motorists must obey the rules of the road with respect to bicyclists, including yielding the right-of-way when the law requires it, just as they would to another vehicle.

Bicyclists who violate the law are subject to traffic tickets. Parents can be held responsible for violations by their minor children (Sec. 1230).

What signals must bicyclists use for turns and stops?

To indicate a left turn, extend the left hand and arm to the left, horizontally. To indicate a right turn, extend the right hand and arm to the right, horizontally OR extend the left arm and hand horizontally and bend it up at the elbow (Sec. 1237).

On what roads is bicycling permitted?

• Bicyclists have the legal right to share the road on most public highways, but it is prohibited on interstate highways and expressways (Sec. 1229-a of the Vehicle and Traffic Law and Sec. 316 of the Highway Law). In addition, authorities with jurisdiction over other controlled-access highways may prohibit bicycles (Sec. 109, and Sec. 1621(a)(2), 1641(1) and 1660(12)). Localities often prohibit bicycling on sidewalks. However, some local ordinances do permit children to bicycle on sidewalks. For your safety and that of pedestrians, however, you should avoid busy city sidewalks whether or not restricted by law.

Must bicyclists drive with traffic or facing traffic? What about pedestrians?

• The law requires that bicyclists drive with traffic (Sec. 1234(a)). Bicycling against traffic is a leading cause of bicycle accidents. Going with traffic makes bicyclists more visible, and their movements more predictable, to motorists. Pedestrians are required to use sidewalks when they are provided and safe to use. Where sidewalks are not provided, a pedestrian is required to walk on the left side of the roadway facing traffic (Sec. 1156).

Where on the road may a bicyclist drive?

• If there is usable bike lane, the bicyclist must use it. If there is no bike lane, or it is unusable due to parked cars or other hazards, the bicyclist may drive either on the right shoulder, or near the right edge or curb of the roadway. A bicyclist may move further left to avoid hazards such as parked cars or debris, but the bicycle driver must avoid undue interference with other traffic (Sec. 1234(a)).
• You should generally bicycle as far to the right as is practicable. If there is a safe shoulder, use it instead of the traffic lane. Smart cyclists plot a line straight down the roadway 3-4 feet from the curb or parked cars. This allows them space to avoid road hazards and to be more visible to motorists and pedestrians.

Are bicyclists required to use bike paths where provided?

• No. A bicyclist must use a bike lane which is part of the roadway, if one is provided and is usable. A bike path is separate from the roadway, and a bicyclist may use either the path or the roadway. (Sec. 1234(a)). In some cases, a roadway may be safer than a nearby bike path, as well as more convenient.

May bicyclists drive side-by-side on a roadway?

• Yes. They may drive two abreast on roadways, but they must drive single file when being overtaken by other vehicles. Bicyclists may only travel more than two abreast on a shoulder, bike lane or bike path intended for bike use if there is sufficient space. However, they must be in single file when passing vehicles, pedestrians or other bicyclists (Sec. 1234(b)).

How should a bicyclist prepare for turns at intersections?

• Generally, bicyclists should use the same through or turning lanes as motorists. However, a bicyclist may choose to dismount and use the pedestrian crosswalk, especially in heavy traffic. After crossing at an intersection, a bicyclist should move to a usable right-hand shoulder or to the right side of the right-hand lane.
• The position a bicyclist takes in preparing for a turn is governed by the general bicycle position rule (Sec. 1234(a)) and the turning rules that apply to other traffic (Sec. 1160). Since turning positions for other vehicles may be dangerous for bicyclists, Sec. 1234(a) allows for safer positioning. A bicyclist should move to the center of the lane when preparing for either a right or left turn, to prevent a following motorist from sharing the lane. It can be very dangerous if a bicyclist turns while sharing a lane with a motorist.
• If there is more than one left turn lane, use the one furthest to the right. After any left turn, move to the right as soon as it is safe to do so.

Is a motorist required to treat bicyclists any differently than a motorist?

• The motorist must always remember that cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers of motor vehicles, and motorists are required to exercise "due care" to avoid colliding with bicyclists (Sec. 1146). As a safety measure, motorists should make scanning for bicyclists second nature, give cyclists plenty of clearance when passing them, and give them the right-of-way when appropriate.

What protective equipment is required for bicyclists?

• In New York State, all bicyclists age one through 13 are required to wear approved bicycle helmets when they are operators or passengers on bicycles (Sec. 1238 (5)). Child passengers one through four must wear approved bicycle helmets and ride in child safety seats. Children under one year old are prohibited from being transported on a bicycle (Sec. 1238 (1)(2)). Any person who violates these provisions is subject to a fine of up to $50 dollars Sec. 1238 (3), (6) (a)). The law directs a police officer to issue a summons for such a violation to the parent or guardian of the child but never to the child (Sec. 1238 (8)).
• Certain localities within the State of New York have passed local ordinances regarding helmet use. For example, Rockland and Erie Counties require all people riding bicycles on county property, regardless of age, to wear an approved bicycle helmet.
• Serious head injuries pose the greatest danger to bicyclists: helmets significantly reduce this risk. Every bicyclist, regardless of age, should wear an approved helmet.