Driving without headlights in the dark is both illegal and risky.
Also read: Elections 2023 – District Electoral Commissions in Norway
Thanks to lighting and reflectors, you will become a visible cyclist in motion. Thanks to proper lighting, you will be noticed by drivers earlier and it will be easier to avoid dangerous situations.
If you are stopped by the police without lights on your bike, you risk having to pay a fine of NOK 1750. That's money wasted, but even worse is being hit by a driver who couldn't see you.
Bike lights make you visible from 300 meters away
Every year many cyclists are injured in road accidents. Many of them are due to the fact that they are poorly visible. Thanks to lighting and reflectors on your bike, a car driver will see you 300 meters earlier than without lights, and dangerous situations will be easier to avoid.
– Many drivers had their hearts in their throats when a cyclist suddenly appeared on the road. The margins are slim before an accident occurs. While cycling speed is much greater than when walking, and the driver has even less time to react, says special advisor David Tofthagen of Trygg Trafikk at Innlandet.
The light must be permanently mounted on both the front and rear of the bicycle
Most bicycles are sold without lights attached to the bicycle. However, if you are cycling at dusk or in the dark, it is mandatory to have a white or yellow light at the front and a red light at the rear. It is also mandatory to have reflectors on the pedals and a red reflector at the back.
– Headlamps work well if you run or ski, but not when biking. If you need additional light, you can also use a headlamp. However, avoid a headlamp that is too powerful as it can blind other road users, says consultant Astrid Kristiansen from the Norwegian Roads Authority.
Wearing neon-colored and reflective clothes is almost as important as being perceived as bright. Clothing in strong colors will make you more visible in daylight.
Requirements for lights and reflectors on a bicycle in the dark
- Bicycles intended for riding in darkness or at dusk must be equipped with a front light with yellow or white light and/or a multi-function flashing light or a steady white light.
- There must be a lamp with a steady or flashing red light at the rear of the bicycle. This also applies to bicycle traffic on sidewalks and bicycle paths.
- The lights must be clearly visible from a distance of 300 meters. Lighting providing flashing light must flash at least 120 times per minute.
- Lights must be attached to the bike.
- There must be a red reflector on the back and a white or yellow reflector on both sides of the pedals.
Like us on Facebook and share our post with others
Source: Norwegian Public Roads Authority
Also read: fylke Innlandet expects the state to cover all costs related to the Tretten Bridge
