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Heading Out for a Bike Ride? Don’t Forget Your Helmet!

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1 year ago

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With spring in full bloom and National Bike Month underway, the Rockland County Department of Health reminds all bicyclists that safety starts with a helmet. Whether riding for fun, fitness, or commuting, wearing a properly fitted helmet is the most effective way to prevent serious head injuries in the event of a crash. In Rockland County, it’s not just smart; it’s the law. All bicyclists, regardless of age, must wear a helmet when riding.

Rockland is a beautiful place to explore on two wheels, but it comes with risks. Preliminary data from the Traffic Safety Statistical Repository (TSSR) shows that in 2024, there were 84 bicycle crashes in the county, with one fatality, and 77 resulting in injuries. Across New York State in 2022, there were 7,523 bicycle crashes and 50 fatalities. More than half of those who died were not wearing helmets.

“May is National Bicycle Month, making it a great time to remind everyone how to ride safely. With more cyclists on the roads, it’s essential to stay alert, follow safety guidelines, and share the road responsibly,” said Dr. Mary Leahy, Rockland County Commissioner of Health. 

Be Predictable
• Ride with traffic, not against it.
• Stay as far to the right as safely possible. Use the shoulder or the bike lane whenever it is safe to do so.
• Use hand signals when about to make a turn and obey traffic signs and signals.
• Never hold on to moving vehicles.

Be Seen
• Don’t assume a driver has seen you. Establish eye contact or adjust your activity to make sure they are aware of your presence.
• Use a headlight and taillight when riding at night. Equip your bike with reflectors and wear light-colored, reflective clothing.
• Use a horn, bell, or your voice to alert others to your presence.

Be Careful
• Avoid road construction, congested two-way streets, and complicated intersections whenever possible.
• Keep your bicycle’s tires, brakes, and safety equipment in good working order.
• Stay aware of your surroundings and know your bike’s limitations.

Be Smart
• Always wear a helmet.
• Avoid distractions—don’t use a phone while riding; if you are listening to music, only wear one earbud.

For more information about bicycle safety, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration – Bike Safety.

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Government

Clarkstown Town Clerk Lauren Marie Wohl Launches Text Alerts for Tax Bill Updates

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4 days ago

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August 9, 2026

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CLARKSTOWN, NY — Beginning with the new tax season on September 1, the Clarkstown Town Clerk’s Office will offer residents a new and convenient way to receive updates about their tax bills directly by text message.

Town Clerk Lauren Marie Wohl announced that residents can opt in to the service by texting “TAXINFO” to 845-644-6899.

Once a resident’s tax bill is ready, those enrolled will receive a text message containing a link. Residents can then enter their property address to view their tax bill and, if they choose, make a payment online.

The new text notification system does not replace traditional mailed tax bills. Residents who sign up for the service will continue to receive their regular tax bill in the mail. The text alerts are intended to provide an additional and more convenient way for residents to know when their bills are available and access their information.

“Residents asked for a simpler way to receive tax bill information, and I’m proud that we were able to make it happen,” Wohl said.

Residents with questions about the new service can contact the Clarkstown Town Clerk’s Office at 845-639-2010.

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Government

Flock Cameras in Rockland County: Safety Tool or Privacy Concern?

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5 days ago

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August 8, 2026

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Flock cameras have become an increasingly debated topic across the country, including here in Rockland County.

Flock cameras are automated license plate readers used by law enforcement to capture license plates and vehicle characteristics as vehicles pass by. Police can use the information to assist with investigations, including locating stolen vehicles, identifying vehicles associated with wanted suspects, helping find missing people and developing leads following crimes.

One of the cameras pictured is located outside The Shops at Nanuet in Clarkstown. A graphic from the website DeFlock also shows reported camera locations throughout the area.

Supporters say the technology can give police an important investigative tool and help solve crimes more quickly. Critics, however, have raised concerns about privacy and the collection of information about where people drive, even when they are not suspected of committing a crime.

The debate ultimately comes down to a question of public safety versus privacy.

What do you think? Are Flock cameras a valuable tool for law enforcement, or are they an intrusion on your privacy?

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