Agreed it's sensible, however I'm not sure about compulsion as most of the time there is no need for it .......if you are wearing bright clothing and it is good daylight.
You need a really piercing flashing light (especially on dual carriageways) to attract attention but none of the proposals seem state lumens or candellas and I've seen some pretty pathetic lights used by some of our club rider riding home in the dark.
Also is it one step to somebody proposing a law whereby we have to have a flashing light on all bikes all the time? Thin end of the wedge.
I'm all for the rule provided the quality of light is defined. It would be more effective to ban dark clothing, a key element of 'conspicuity', we need car drivers to a) Notice there is an object on the road ahead b) Realise it is a cyclist (flashing light quite good there, but pedal movement is better, so attach lights to pedals or shoes) c) Take the appropriate action to avoid killing us
At the moment it is a proposal for National Council to vote on in early December. If anyone feels strongly about it they are welcome to attend the Midland District special meeting on 29th November - Alan Lewis has details
Use of rear lights in time trialsAt the 2009 National Council meeting, two proposals to make the use of rear lights compulsory in all events held under our Regulations, were defeated, although it was agreed to make this a recommendation. The principle concern was that the light may fail during the event thus putting the rider in breach of the new regulation.
National Committee feel that flashing red LED lights do significantly improve rider safety as they are particularly affective in attracting the attention of other road users. They have therefore tabled a motion that requires all competitors to start with a flashing red light. If the light fails after the rider has started, he/she will not be in breach of the regulation. The type of light is left entirely to the riders discretion. Recognising that rear lights could be a distraction to riders in Team Time Trials, their use is not compulsory in such events. For Come and Try It Events, where new riders turn up without a light it is suggested that clubs carry a small stock to lend out on such occasions.
