When travelling around the Oscott area recently at night I have been surprised at the number of cyclist not using a light on their bikes after dark.
This time of year it can be very difficult for motorists and yes pedestrians to see cyclists coming when they have no lights on their bikes. It is not just children either.
I have seen cyclists using Dyas Road and even the very busy Kingstanding Road without lights, for example.
Thankfully most cyclists are sensible it has to be said.
I have asked the Police as I do every year to keep an eye on this issue
TOP TIPS FOR CYCLING IN THE DARK
1. Visible upper body
To help drivers see you, go for a reflective/high vis garment that can
be seen clearly from front and back. Why not try something that can go
over your regular coat like a sash, high vis vest or a backpack cover?
2. Get creative with your bike lights
It’s a legal requirement to have white front and red rear lights and
reflectors on your bike, and orange reflectors on your pedals. Lights
should go on at dusk, and can be useful during the day too, especially
when it’s a dull day.
3. Make your bike and helmet glow too
Get your bike and helmet involved in the reflective action. Try
additional reflectors and lights on your spokes, to really make your
wheels light up as they whizz round. Or go for some reflective stickers
for your mudguards, panniers or the back of a child seat. And last but
by no means least customise your helmet with a reflector too.
4. Stick to well-lit roads
Although lanes and canals are great for summer cycling, when darkness
falls it’s hard to see and be seen without street lights. Stick to
well-lit roads and paths when the sun goes down.
5. Keep an extra eye out for pedestrians
It can be hard to spot people on foot.
6. Make the bar or bike decision early on
If you know you will be having a few drinks on a night out, leave the bike at home and use public transport instead.
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