Cycling Visibility: Lights, Reflectors & Being Seen

The most common excuse from drivers who hit cyclists: "I didn't see them." While this doesn't excuse their negligence, being visible can save your life.

Legal Requirements

Most states require:

• Front white light visible from 500+ feet

• Rear red reflector visible from 300+ feet

• May require reflectors on wheels/pedals

Beyond the Minimum

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Lights

Front Light

• Minimum 200 lumens for urban

• 500+ lumens for rural/unlit roads

• Steady mode for being seen, flash for attention

Rear Light

• Red color required

• 50+ lumens

• Flash mode increases visibility

• Consider multiple lights

Side Visibility

• Spoke lights or reflectors

• Pedal reflectors

• Frame-mounted side lights

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Clothing

Colors

• Fluorescent yellow-green most visible in daylight

• White and orange also effective

• Avoid dark colors, especially at night

Reflective Material

• Moving reflective elements (ankles, shoes) catch attention

• Reflective vest or jacket

• Reflective tape on bike and helmet

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When to Use Lights

Always use lights:

• Dawn and dusk (most dangerous times)

• Cloudy or overcast days

• In shadows (tree cover, buildings)

• Anytime visibility is reduced

Daytime running lights Studies show daytime lights reduce accidents by 19-33%

Visibility and Your Legal Case

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If You Were Visible Undermines "I didn't see them" defense.

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If Visibility Was Poor Insurance companies will argue you contributed to the accident. However:

• Driver still had duty to watch for road users

• Poor visibility doesn't excuse hitting someone

• You can still recover (reduced in comparative negligence states)