30 May 2016

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Check your lights and get reflective. That's the message to cyclists as Police and the Christchurch City Council launch the Be Bright, Be Seen campaign on Christchurch roads.

The campaign will run for the month of June, and will see Police and Council staff running checkpoints at busy intersections, checking cyclists' lights and reflective gear, and providing some giveaways.

Sergeant Lachy Garrick of the Christchurch Police said ensuring cyclists had the correct lighting set-up increased their visibility on the road.

"Cycling is a great way to commute around our city, but to make it as safe as possible, cyclists need to adhere to the rules. We advise cyclists to make themselves as visible as possible, and to always ensure they position themselves on the road in such a way that is safe, but also provides other drivers the best opportunity to see them.

“Crashes often occur with drivers saying ‘I didn’t see the cyclist’. This emphasises the reasons why cyclists need to be constantly mindful of making themselves visible to other road users. Particular care needs to be taken at intersections and around heavy motor vehicles.”

“We know that reflective gear and lights, even during the day, is one of the most effective ways to do that. At times of low light, it is vital to make sure you are visible on the road way."

At night, or in times of low light, cyclists need an operating white front light, a red back light and a rear reflector.

Police would be running check points throughout June, checking that lights were being used and were in good working order.

Council Transport Operations Manager Steffan Thomas said cycling was a popular commuting option in Christchurch, with almost 10,000 people choosing to cycle for their work commute every day.

"We all need to be mindful when getting around.  Whether cycling or driving that means taking care when merging, signalling intentions early, and controlling speed at all times to make sure you can react effectively if an unexpected situation arises.

"People cycling should take responsibility for lights and reflective clothing, and making extra checks at intersections where people may be turning across cycle lanes. We recommend using lights in flashing mode."

Be Bright, Be Seen tips

  • During the change of seasons, be prepared with good, working lights on your bicycle so you don’t get caught out as it gets dark or on a dull day
  • Bicycle lights in flashing mode are more noticeable and use less battery power
  • To be more noticeable when cycling, use reflectors, reflective strips and reflective ankle bands which also help to secure loose clothing
  • Take particular care at intersections and around heavy motor vehicles.

Find out more on Be Bright, Be Seen.