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Riding in Low Visibility Riding at night and times of low visibility is more dangerous than riding during the day. When it is dark, near dark, raining and foggy, visibility is obviously decreased. At night chances are greater that some motorists are tired or even impaired. But there are many things you can do to be safe while riding at night. One of the foundational elements of safe cycling is being conspicuous. This is especially important at times of low visibility. Never let a motorist say, “Officer, I just didn’t see them!” Lights, reflectors, bright clothing, a bright helmet and riding where you are most visible are all very important. |
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New York State law requires a white light in front and a red light in the rear from a half hour past sunset to a half hour before sunrise. It’s a great idea to have lights during the day too. They keep you more visible in the day, in the rain and when going under bridges. The white front light must be visible from 500 feet, the red rear light must be visible from 300 feet, and at least one of these lights shall be visible from 200 feet from each side. If riding in a place with inadequate street lighting, it’s advisable to have two front lights. Point one light at the ground in front of you to illuminate your path so you can see ruts, debris and other hazards. Point the other light higher to make motorists aware of you. |
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The more you ride at night, the more advisable it is to invest in good quality lights. Most lights these days are USB rechargeable so make sure they are charged before you ride. There’s a debate among cyclists whether it’s better to have your lights steady or blinking. It’s up to you but there is some evidence that motorists judge distances and movement better when the light is steady. It should go without saying that if your light hurts motorists’ eyes, that doesn’t work in your favor. Our advice: Keep that white front light steady and if you want to blink the rear red light, go ahead. |
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Reflectors on the bike and on the wheels are required on all new bikes sold. Make sure your bike has reflectors and that they have not broken off. Reflective material or tape on moving parts (pedals, leg band, spokes, legs, helmet, etc) also go a long way to identifying you as a cyclist when visibility is poor. Reflectors alone don’t satisfy the law. You need battery operated lights too. |
Other tips for riding at night: It’s recommended that you ride slower when visibility is decreased. This makes you more visible/predictable and makes it easier to come to a quick stop if necessary. Other advice from John Forester, the author of Effective Cycling: “In daylight, it is poor policy to get stuck halfway across an intersection; at night, it is worse. At night, never enter an intersection unless you can get directly across it to a place of safety. When waiting to make a left turn, wait before you enter the intersection, not in it.”