Cycling in the dark
Make sure you can be seen when cycling in the dark
Are you prepared for commuting in the dark? With winter drawing near it is important to make sure you are prepared for the dark mornings and nights, if you are commuting by bike. Too often we see cyclists on the road, ill prepared for the conditions.
Around 17,000 cyclists are killed or injured in road accidents each year. Statistics have revealed that there is a higher rate of cycling casualties between October and February. During these months the sun rises much later, usually after 8am and the sunsets much earlier from any time after 3:30pm. This means that people who commute by bike are likely to spend most of it in the dark.
25% of cycling accidents occur due to the cyclist having a lack of safety equipment. So you can see how important it is not to cycle in the dark, without the proper equipment and lights. Making sure you can be seen not only protects yourself, but the people around you.
- Wear bright-coloured or fluorescent clothing, or a high visibility vest.
- Wear reflective accessories, such as a belt or arm/ankle bands.
- Ensure your bike has a reliable white front light, rear red light, rear red reflector and amber pedal reflectors.
There are a wide range of lights and reflective gear on the market. When you’re riding in the dark, you should see this as your chance to shine!