Highly visible on the bike
From October to March, accident insurers count an average of 7000 bicycle accidents on the roads. As it gets darker outside, it is all the more important for cyclists to be seen by other road users.
Darkness and the hours of twilight reduce the contrast for our eyes. As a result, a cyclist may appear in our field of vision at the last moment - a dangerous situation that often leads to accidents during the winter months. Around a third of the 20,000 bicycle accidents that occur each year happen during the darker months of the year. Suva therefore strongly recommends ensuring good visibility.
Good visibility for cyclists
A functioning Lights in the dark are mandatory for cyclists. Anyone who equips their bike with additional reflectors benefits from greater visibility: "Front and rear lights are mandatory in the dark. With little effort, additional reflectors on the spokes can increase visibility and thus safety," explains Raphael Ammann, head of the "Velo" campaign at Suva. "Reflective clothing also helps you to be seen early by other road users in the dark. Bicycle helmets can also be fitted with reflectors and lighting," says Ammann.
Keeping your bike and yourself fit
It's well known that you should get your bike ready for the road in spring. If you use your bike all year round, you should have it checked again at a specialist store in the fall: In the winter months, Suva recommends riding a winter-ready bicycle tire and having your brakes, lights and gears checked. This is a small investment with a big impact: "A well-maintained bike will get you to your destination more safely," confirms Ammann. In addition to a basic level of physical fitness, cycling also requires good balance and coordination skills. "When switching to an electric bike, depending on your experience, it's worth taking a riding course and getting advice from a bike dealer," advises Ammann.
Assess traffic situations correctly
Cycling requires full attention: do I have the traffic situation and the road ahead in my field of vision? Can I react in time if I have to brake unexpectedly? Do I ride in the middle of the traffic circle so that other road users can see me clearly? "A good cyclist looks ahead on the road. They can make the right and safe decision for themselves and other road users in unexpected situations," confirms Ammann.
Tips for better visibility on the bike
Here you will find the most important tips for optimal cycling equipment. These elements of cycling equipment are mandatory:
- White reflectors at the front, at least 10 cm2 in size
- Red reflectors at the rear, at least 10 cm2 in size
- Orange reflectors on the front and rear pedals.
- A white, round light at the front, visible for at least 100 meters (at night and at dusk)
- A red, steady light at the rear (at night and at dusk). A flashing red light is also recommended.
- Two effective brakes
- Intact, pumped tires (tires suitable for the season)
Source: Suva
