Skateboarders to be required to wear helmets

New Yorkers under the age of 14 who ride skateboards will be required to wear safety helmets. The requirements put in place by a new law are the same as those currently required for children who ride bicycles and use in-line skates.

Under current law, the use of helmets and other safety requirements placed on those children riding bicycles or using in-line skates are not required of skateboard riders, which could place children at unnecessary risk.

The new law also prohibits skateboarders from attaching themselves to any automobile on the roadway, and restricts them from carrying any items that obstruct their view. Additionally, the new statute will include skateboards in a list of items that are included in the state's bicycle and in-line skate public education and safety awareness program.

New York State requires bicyclists under the age of 14 to wear certified bicycle helmets when operating or riding a bicycle. Children aged 1 to 4 must wear certified helmets and ride in specially designed child safety seats.

Under a law signed by NYS Governor George Pataki in 2001, children under the age of 14 are also required to wear a helmet when operating a scooter.

The law requiring the use of safety helmets for New Yorkers who ride skateboards takes effect on January 1, 2005.