"Every year we see children riding at night without lights - it's simply shocking"

Monday 19 October 2020

As the nights starts to draw in, cyclists of all ages are being reminded that riding after dark without lights is not just dangerous, but against the law.

The Guernsey Bicycle Group said fixed front (permanent, not flashing) and rear lights and a rear reflector are a legal requirement for all bicycles during the hours of darkness.

GBG Chairman Sam Field said that not complying with this can result not only in a police fine, but a crash, an injury or worse.

"Bike lights in the winter are non-negotiable. Fixed front and rear bike lights are a legal requirement and should be the very minimum you have this winter. A high viz, reflective or bright jacket is a bloody good idea, as are spare lights and batteries."

Pictured: One of the Guernsey Bicycle Group's campaign posters, reinforcing the message that cyclists must have lights on their bikes while riding in the dark. 

"If you have children riding to and from school, please, please ensure they have effective working lights. Every year we see children riding at night without lights – it’s simply shocking to see.

"If you have a mate that cycles – ask them if their lights are in working condition and ready for the winter. It doesn’t hurt or cost anything to check a mates bike.

"Modern bike lights can be very bright, and we ask all riders to aim their lights carefully to avoid dazzling oncoming riders and drivers. Basically, treat other road users as you would like them to treat you.”

The group has also set out to "bust some common myths" including that the driver of a vehicle is automatically fault if they hit a light-less cyclist. "A bicycle being ridden at night without lights is illegal, so the driver is not automatically at fault," said Mr Field.

Another grey area he has sought to clarify is the use of flashing lights, which Mr Field said are not illegal. 

"It is true that you cannot have a flashing light as your only front or rear light, but if you have a “fixed” (ie: not flashing) front or rear light you can have a secondary flashing light.

It is also "highly unlikely" that flashing lights would trigger epilepsy unless above legal limits. 

"UK law says that these lights mustn’t flash at less than one or more than four flashes a second. Provided the lights comply with the law, they are unlikely to cause a problem. Christmas tree lights are more likely to trigger a seizure."