Agency of Transportation Urges Bicyclists, Pedestrians, and All Road Users to Heed Safe Traveling Tips
Vermont Business Magazine The Vermont Agency of Transportation (AOT) is urging bicyclists, pedestrians, and all road users to stay safe during the earlier dark evenings after the end of Daylight Savings Time.
Bicyclists and pedestrians should take extra precautions when biking or walking on roadways just before, during, and after dark when motorists may not be able to see them well or from a distance. Bright and/or reflective clothing is strongly recommended for pedestrians and bicyclists, and the use of a light that meets specific safety criteria when biking after dark is Vermont state law.
Additionally, with common commuting hours now coming during darkness, motorists should be aware of their surroundings and vigilant about the presence of bicyclists and pedestrians on, alongside, and crossing roadways.
“Keeping bicyclists and pedestrians safe on Vermont roads is everyone’s responsibility,” said Transportation Secretary Joe Flynn. “Pay attention to all road users, and please do your part to keep yourself and others safe.”
Other safety tips for bicyclists and pedestrians are as follows:
- Wear Bright and Reflective Clothing: Bright or fluorescent clothing is best at dusk. Reflective vests, jackets, or ankle bands increase visibility at night from all angles. Drivers notice movement, so reflective gear on moving parts (ankles or pedals) is highly effective.
- Use Lights:
- Vermont statute (23 V.S.A. § 1141) states that at night (30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise), the bicycle or the bicyclist shall have a light in the FRONT (a white light visible from a distance of at least 500 feet to the front) and a REAR flashing or steady red light or at least 20 square inches of reflective rear-facing material or reflectors visible from a distance of at least 300 feet to the rear.
- Use lights that exceed the minimum legal visibility requirements. Many modern LED lights offer greater brightness. Consider a helmet-mounted light in addition to a handlebar light, as it shines wherever you turn your head, helping you make eye contact with drivers and spot hazards around corners.
- Check and Charge Batteries: Ensure your lights are fully charged before every ride, or carry spare batteries and/or a power bank.
- Plan Routes Wisely: Use well-lit, familiar roads and paths. Avoid dark roads with higher speed limits, narrow shoulders, or poor pavement conditions.
- Ride Defensively: Never assume that drivers see you. Ride predictably in a straight line, and use clear hand signals for turns and stops.
- Watch for Hazards: Be aware that wet leaves and road debris can be slippery and obscure potholes. Adjust your braking technique accordingly on slick surfaces.
For more information, go to https://safestreets.vermont.gov/be-bright-night.
Vermont Agency of Transportation vtrans.vermont.gov
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