Avoid Cycling Accidents, Take Off The Headphones
New York cyclists in particular need to be aware of the dangers of riding with headphones.

December 07, 2011 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Avoid Cycling Accidents, Take Off The Headphones

Listening to music on headphones while cycling is easy thanks to the portability of ear buds and iPods. More cyclists than ever can be seen wearing headphones while riding with traffic on the street. New York cyclists in particular need to be aware of the dangers of riding with headphones.

Research by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration confirms that cyclists avoid accidents based on what they hear. By listening to your surroundings, you can tell what is going on behind you: the type of vehicle approaching, how big it is, how close it is and how fast it is going. You will also be aware of dogs that might charge or chase you and other obstacles.

Is it Legal to Ride With Headphones in New York?

It is not lawful to ride a bicycle with headphones. New York's Vehicle and Traffic Law prohibits cyclists from riding a bicycle while wearing more than one earphone attached to an iPod or radio. While the law is very specific about headphones only children are legally required to wear helmets; although it is recommended for all riders.

Follow These Tips to Stay Safe While Cycling

Make sure that you can hear what is going on around you and that you can be seen by passing motorists. Also follow these additional tips:
-Ride on the street with traffic: Be predictable and ride defensively. Make sure to look both directions when coming out of driveways. Look behind you when making turns. Take care to avoid obstacles, such as grates and pot holes.

-Obey all traffic signals, signs and pavement markings: While riding a bike you are responsible for following traffic signals just as the other vehicles on the road.

-Use marked lane or bike paths when available:On bicycle paths make sure to give an audible warning when you are passing other bicyclists and pedestrians.

-Do not wear more than one earphone: Make sure that you can hear what is going on around you.

-Use safety and visibility equipment, such as:a white headlight and a red taillight from dusk to dawn, reflective clothing and a properly fitted helmet.

Even when you follow all the safe riding rules, accidents can still occur. If you are injured in a bicycle accident contact an experienced personal injury lawyer.

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