New York State Law Says No To Parents Riding Bikes With Infants

You will start to see people on bikes everywhere in Western New York this week as the sun and warm weather finally return!

We are so lucky to have some amazing trails and paths for those who love to ride a bike. In fact, across New York State, more communities are adding bike lanes to their streets!

But as tempted as a parent might be to take the entire family out for a ride, there are some laws that prevent that from taking place.

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We are just a few weeks from summer starting and this is a great time to see what the laws are.

New York State Infant Bike Ban

While many of us are filing the tires with air and checking the chain for the proper fit, those who have little ones are making sure they have their helmets ready to ride.

But parents with infants need to know that New York State says no to kids under one year old on bikes.

According to the law, "Children aged 1 to 4 must wear certified bicycle helmet and ride in specially designed child safety seats. Children under 1 are prohibited from being transported on a bicycle (Sec. 1238(1)(2)). Any parent or guardian who permits his or her child to violate the helmet law is subject to a fine of up to $50 (Sec. 1238(3),(6)(a))".

True, this may be common sense parenting. However, there are some pretty amazing bike accessories for parents that are on the market and some might be tempted to use them for their little ones.

Be safe and have fun and don't forget that helmet!