Requires operators of bicycles with electric assist, electric scooters, and motor-driven cycles to wear protective head gear

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why Jeremy Zellner says this is needed

After legalization in 2020, e-bikes utilization has grown dramatically, not just in New York City but across the state. With this exponential growth comes rising safety concerns. As Assembly Member Alex Bores noted in his 2023 E-Bike Safety Analysis, the number of e-bikes in NYC alone grew from 96,322 in 2020 to over 272,795 in 2023. Based on his analysis the number of collision fatalities per e-bike is 19 times greater than the number of collision fatalities per bicycle. Similar statistics are evident across the state. New York State needs to raise the safety threshold for all e-bike, e-scooters, and motor-driven cycle operators. Wearing a helmet is a crucial safety measure proven to significantly reduce the risk of serious head, brain, and facial injuries in a crash. Statistics show that most e-bike deaths involve head injuries, making helmets the most effective protective gear available. Extensive research has quantified the life-saving benefits of wearing a helmet: Reduces head injuries: Studies have found that wearing a helmet can lower the risk of head injury by 48%. Decreases traumatic brain injury (TBI): Helmet use is associated with a 53% reduction in the risk of traumatic brain injury. Prevents serious injury or death: Helmets reduce the number of deaths or seriously injuries in a crash by 34%. Minimizes facial injuries: Helmets can also significantly decrease the risk of facial injuries, including fractures. This bill will amend current recommendations to requiring all operators of e-bikes, e-scooters, and motor-driven cycles to wear safety helmets that meet the standards set by the commissioner. This bill also specifically identifies the charac- teristics of motor-driven cycles and licensing requirements.

This is the sponsor's own case for the bill, quoted from their memorandum. It is not Agora's description of what the bill does.