Regular cyclists are usually no stranger to bike-related accidents. From a few minor bumps to a blue light A & E experience, every cyclist has a story to tell. Now that winter has officially arrived, sunlight in the early mornings and evenings is almost non-existent, and the darker it is the harder it is to see that cyclist turning at the junction in front of you or the one on the main road you’re about to move into.
Reflective clothing is recommended for cyclists, particularly during the darker winter months. However, as it’s not a legal requirement, many choose to brave the roads without it, despite the increased risk of an accident. There are a number of benefits to wearing hi-vis clothing as a cyclist, from making yourself more visible to reducing your risk of contributory negligence. Read on to find out why it’s a worthwhile investment.
Protect yourself
Statistics from the Department for Transport show almost half (46%) of cyclist fatalities between the period of 2015 – 2020 involved a car. With an average of two cyclists being killed and 83 seriously injured each week, it’s clear how easily a tragedy can occur.
Wearing reflective clothing makes it easier for other road users to see you when you’re cycling which could make you less likely to be hit by a car, motorcycle, or fellow cyclist. You will also be more visible to pedestrians from a distance, meaning you’re less likely to run into someone crossing the roadand cause an injury.
Reduce your risk of contributory negligence
While you’re not legally required to wear reflective clothing when cycling on the road, you could be at risk of contributory negligence, because you didn’t take steps to make yourself visible. For example, if you were hit by a driver while cycling on the road in the dark,you might take the driver to court.
However, even if the driver was found to have been driving slightly over the speed limit, you could still be partly blamed with contributory negligence, as you weren’t making enough effort to be more visible.
Where can I get one?
Most sports clothing stores and outdoor clothing suppliersstock hi-vis jackets and accessories such as reflective cycling gloves and lights which you can attach to your bike to make you more visible to drivers and others around you.
However,specialist cycling clothing can come with a hefty price tag. If you’d rather not make a significant investment, a hi-vis vest from a workwear supplier will keep you safe for a fraction of the cost!
Wearing reflective clothing is a simple way to make sure other road users can see you, reducing your risk of being hit or knocked off your bike. It can also make it easier for pedestrians to see you, which could reduce the risk of you injuring a passer-by while cycling. As with wearing a helmet, cyclists are not legally required to wear reflective clothing, but it does help keep you and everyone else on the roads safe.
