Rules of the Road for New York Motorcyclists

Motorcyclists are subject to a variety of very specificrules and regulations that other motorists are not. These laws and regulationsvary widely from state to state. If you live and ride in New York State oranticipate traveling through New York bymotorcycle in the future, you should be aware of New York’s motorcycle laws. Knowing andabiding by these laws will save you the expense of a moving violation ticketand may also save your life.

Motorcyclists must follow the same rules any other motoristmust follow. Here is a brief look at the laws specific to motorcyclists in New York:

Requirements

• Helmets - New York motorcycle helmet laws state helmets are mandatory for operators and riders. Unlike many states, New York requires that a helmet have a four inch square reflector attached. Novelty helmets are not permitted.

• Eye protection - Goggles or face shields are recommended. Prescription glasses are allowed if they meet DMV standards. Eye protection must be worn even if the motorcycle is equipped with a windshield.

• Daytime headlight and taillight use - Modulating/variable intensity headlights are permitted.

• Passenger seat and footrest - A permanently affixed passenger seat and footrests are required in order to carry a passenger. There is no age restriction for passengers in New York.

• Yearly motorcycle inspections - These inspections must be done at least every 12 months at a station licensed by the DMV to perform motorcycle safety inspections

• Additional equipment requirements - Motorcycles must also be equipped with all of the following: stop lamp, license plate lamp, at least one red rear reflector, and blinkers (if it was originally equipped with blinkers or is a 1985 or newer model), brakes on both wheels (if a 1971 or newer model), horn, one rearview mirror mounted to a handlebar, handlebars no more than 15 inches higher than the seat, and a muffler. Mufflers with removable baffles are prohibited.

Motorcyclists are allowed full useof an entire lane at all times, but may not ride more than two wide in anylane. Lane splitting, or driving between cars down the center line is notpermitted. A single earphone for radio or other communication is allowed.