Safety Statistics

The New York City Cycling Safety Indicator describes changes in cyclist safety over the past decade, while accounting for increases in bicycle use. The indicator declined from 397 in 2000 to 100 in 2009, which reflects a 75% decrease in the average risk of a serious injury experienced by commuter cyclists in New York City.
Learn more about the Cycling Safety Indicator (pdf)

Bike Helmets

DOT gives away the official NYC Helment for free at helmet fitting events - check the DOT Events Calendar for the next one. The helmet is also available at Safety City locations, call 311 to schedule a fitting. Before giving away the helmet, DOT staff will make sure you understand how to properly fit and wear the helmet. A parent or legal guardian must be present to sign a waiver for children under age 18.

Employers must provide their bicycle delivery workers with helmets that meet City safety standards. Delivery bicycles must be equipped with safety devices. Delivery workers must wear helmets when cycling on the job.

The LOOK Safety Campaign

The DOT together with the NYC Bicycle Safety Coalition created the LOOK bicycle safety campaign (www.looknyc.org). This unprecedented partnership drew together City agencies, cycling advocates and the AAA along with the international advertising agency Publicis in Seattle, who provided their services pro bono to create an edgy and effective new marketing campaign encouraging motorist and cyclists to literally look out for each other.

Bikes on Transit

Visit the MTA’s website for comprehensive information about bringing bikes on MTA buses and trains.

Subway

Tips for bringing your bike on the subway:

• Avoid rush hour trains. Conflicts can occur between passengers and cyclists due to limited space or crowded trains.
• Board at the least crowded part of the train, which usually is the front or the back. Never put your bike where it could block an aisle or a door.
• Stand by your bike. Move your bike to allow others to pass or sit down. If there is a train or station evacuation, you must leave your bike behind to ensure a swift and safe exit for all passengers.
• Carry your bike on stairs. Wait until the staircase is not crowded. Don't bump the bike down the stairs; you may lose control.
• Use the service gate. Do not try to lift your bike over the turnstile. Signal the token clerk to release the gate. Use a MetroCard and roll the turnstile. Pull the service gate to enter.

Ferries

• Bikes are allowed on the Staten Island Ferry at no charge. (311)
• Bikes are allowed on NY Waterway ferries with a $1 extra fee (800-53-FERRY).
• Bikes are allowed on Seastreak ferries with a $3 extra fee (800-BOAT-RIDE).
• Bikes are allowed on Liberty Landing boats at no charge (201-985-4000).
• Bikes are allowed on NY Water Taxis at no charge. (212-742-1969)

Staten Island Ferry Rules of Conduct for Bicyclists

1. Bicyclists are subject to all Passenger Rules of Conduct.
2. Bicyclists must board on the lower level at both the St. George and Whitehall Ferry Terminals.
3. Bicyclists must dismount and walk their bicycles to the waiting area and onto the boat.
4. All bicycles must be stored in the designated bicycle storage area on each of the vessels.
5. All bicyclists are subject to screening upon arrival at the ferry terminals.

See more tips on bicycle safety and safety regulations
Return to main Bicyclists page