Cycling without lights - Hedge End, West End, Botley, Netley, Bursledon and Hamble.

Cycling without lights - Hedge End, West End, Botley, Netley, Bursledon and Hamble.

Good afternoon Resident,

I'm writing to let you know that we are aware of community concerns and targeting these offences whilst on patrol. 

If you find the below information helpful, please “rate” this message at the bottom (very quick and simple).

Now the clocks have changed and it gets darker earlier, we are seeing more cyclists out cycling in the dark without lights. This is also being raised by to us by residents who drive and walk around the community, who are very concerned about the risks. We would like to remind adults who cycle and all parents / guardians of those who cycle, that cycling without appropriate lighting is not only extremely dangerous, but also against the law.

BY LAW BICYCLES MUST HAVE -  
•    A white front light.
•    A red rear light.
•    A red rear reflector.
•    Four amber pedal reflectors, one at the front and rear of each pedal.

Both front and rear lights must be switched on when cycling between sunset and sunrise. It’s no defence to say that it was past sunset but not yet dark. The legal lighting obligations for cyclists are determined by sunset and sunrise times, not ‘hours of darkness’

Cycling without lights can result in a £50 Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN). As a team, we are taking this matter very seriously. Anyone seen cycling without appropriate lights will be spoken to, and if under 18 their parents / guardians will be contacted.

We cannot stress enough how important visibility is when cycling, particularly during the darker mornings and evenings. Wearing dark clothing and cycling without lights puts children at significant risk, not only from other road users but also from other potential hazards. If you or your child cycles at dawn, dusk or during the hours of darkness and does not currently have lights, please make this a priority.

A lot of people tell me that they forgot their lights, or that they are out later than they had expected – neither of these reasons / excuses will keep you safe. Please take lights with you, or remind your child to take them.

A simple set of bike lights could make all the difference and help keep you, or your child safe on the roads.

Hedge End Neighbourhood Policing Team,
PCSO Mica Woodcock 12948 - West End PCSO. 👮‍♀️🚲👍😊