Safety and Education Committee Report
Helmet mounted headlights
Off road vehicles mount their lights high and make them bright. When vehicles are operated on the roadways they are subject to certain restrictions. Headlights can be no lower than 24” or higher than 54” and they must be aimed to avoid blinding oncoming drivers. Bicycles are vehicles (RSA 265.143) and I’m sure the law applies to them as well.
When bicycles are ridden off road at night a helmet mounted light does an excellent job of lighting up the trail. There are many hazards that must be avoided and wherever the rider looks is illuminated. Riding on the road is different. When riding on most city streets the light from passing cars and street lights provides adequate light for the bicyclist to see the road. A simple light illuminating just the travel path is usually adequate. The primary function of a bicycle’s headlight under these conditions is vehicle identification as to location, direction, and speed. On unlit country roads more light is needed but helmet mounted lights are a safety hazard and should not be used. If the bicycle has no other front light it disappears whenever the rider turns his head. Looking directly at an oncoming vehicle can blind its operator. Drunks instinctively turn into the light and many stopped police cars with their strobe lights flashing have been struck.
In order to be safe at night slow moving vehicles should be identified by others as soon as possible. Reflective clothing is now required by law for anyone riding after dark (RSA 265:144, XII). A flashing taillight and bicycle unique reflectors (wheels, pedals, and possibly a vest) will identify the bicycle as an obstacle to be avoided. A supplemental flashing headlight will attract a lot of attention without blinding oncoming vehicles. I’ve had cars pull out right in front of me when I used just a 10 watt headlight. My supplemental flashing blue/white headlight ($15) can be seen almost a mile away has (mostly) cured this problem. I have also had numerous passing vehicles pull over thinking I was a cop.
Sailboats illuminate their sail at night. I installed some flashing (white) Christmas lights on my safety vest. It illuminates my body from all angles so that vehicles entering the roadway can see me from the side. I also mounted a flashing taillight on my white helmet. I want the other drivers to know where my head is no matter what happens.
You can pay a lot of money and get some awesome lights but you don’t have to; adequate lights can be purchased for less than $100. There is no need to “Ride Dark and Die”. My LED lights use NiMH batteries (AA & AAA) and last for many hours. I commute daily (sometimes riding both ways in the dark) and only have to recharge the batteries once or twice a week. These batteries are inexpensive and carrying a spare set is a good idea.
Bill Fisk - Safety and Education
Safety and Education Coordinator
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