Bicycling and the Law

Richard L. Duquette

EP66 Night Riders and Commuters

Commuting and riding a bicycle, both improves health and saves money. More and more people are deciding to do so even in the dark. But when faced with an injury, how well do you know your rights? Listen to this episode on night riders and commuters.

"Although (commuting) is good for the heart and for the planet, you have to take safety very seriously." - Richard Duquette

According to Richard, insurance companies will try to claim your negligence. They see you partly at fault for an injury when commuting or riding in the dark, at times.

You can protect yourself by following the rules of the Vehicle Code. The California Vehicle Code defines darkness as "half an hour before dark or half an hour before sunrise."

When you are riding in the dark, it is important that you follow the rules and guidelines regarding bicycle lights. Consider placing lights on:

• Front of your bicycle
• Rear of your bicycle
• Helmet (new safety features illuminate back of helmets)
• Pedals
• Your legs
• Wheels
• Clothing

Front lights must be seen 300 feet away. Mount a light on your handlebars. Doing so illuminates both your bicycle and the road.

There are several kinds of lights. The two most important are the high-intensity discharge (HID) and the light-emitting diode (LED) lights.

Richard recommends using the LED light because it lasts longer and shines wider. You may check mtbr.com for further information on bicycle lights.

Here’s a list of references for this episode on Night Riders and Commuters:

• CA Vehicle Code 21201
• Mountain Bike Review

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