How to protect yourself when biking at night

On Behalf of | Apr 18, 2023 | Bicycle tips |

It’s finally biking weather. Many people are taking their bikes out for long rides.

Some people may be biking for so long that they don’t realize that it’s getting late. As it gets darker, bikers have a higher chance of suffering injuries. Here’s how you can protect yourself when biking at night:

1. Use headlights

Bikers can attach headlights to their bikes. Just like motor vehicles, your headlights can help you see what’s in front of you and let other drivers see you.

2. Attach reflective lights

Additionally, you can attach reflective lights to your bike. Reflective lights will bounce light from other light sources and reflect it so that you can be seen.  

3. Ride where drivers will see you

Drivers will only see what’s ahead of them and on the road. As such, you should consider riding on the road where you can be seen. What this means is that you may need to ride a little bit more on the road so drivers don’t clip your bike and cause an accident. 

4. Don’t blind drivers

While headlights can make you visible, you have to be careful where they’re aimed. If a headlight is aimed too high up, it may only blind drivers and make it harder to tell where you are on the road. Instead, you should point your light slightly down. You shouldn’t point your light downward or you won’t be able to see what’s ahead of you.

5. Wear a reflective vest

You should also consider wearing a reflective vest. A reflective vest will work just like light reflective lights on a bike. Not only will you be more visible on your bike with a reflective vest, but you’ll also be visible if you’re walking beside your bike.

6. Wear your helmet

It shouldn’t need to be stated, but you should wear your helmet during the night just as you do during the day. Your helmet is your number one protective measure from serious head injuries. While you will still likely suffer from injuries, the hard plastic can absorb shock. If your helmet is old or has been damaged, you need to replace it, because it won’t protect you as well. 

You could end up in a biking accident and suffer injuries and losses. If this happens, you may need to learn about your options to seek compensation