Riding at Night: Here’s What You Should and Shouldn’t Do

February 24, 2024 by Marjorie R. Rogers, MA (English), Certified Consultant

Nighttime bike rides are awesome because it’s so peaceful to cruise through the streets. There aren’t many people around, and it’s generally quieter, giving you the chance to take it easy and enjoy the cool stuff in the sky. 

The only thing that can mess up your fun is if you forget to be careful before heading out on your ride. Bicycle accidents are not as common as other vehicle accidents, but they can have equally severe consequences.

If you’ve been involved in a bicycle accident, you have the right to seek compensation from an at-fault party. A competent lawyer will help you get every single penny that you deserve.

Nonetheless, in this article, we’re focused on raising awareness of the dos and don’ts of night riding. We’ll be listing tips bicycle riders can use to avoid becoming victims of bicycle accidents.

The Shoulds

Here are the things you should do before going on a bicycle riding expedition at night:

Use the right lights

Make sure to grab some legit lights for your bike – a bright one in the front and a red one in the back. It’s not just about style; it’s about letting others see you in the dark. 

Be Visible

Deck yourself out in bright or reflective gear. You want people to notice you, not blend in with the shadows. Standing out like you’re in the spotlight is the key to a safe night ride.

Wear Comfortable Clothes

Choose clothes that let you move freely. This ensures an enjoyable ride without discomfort or restriction, allowing you to fully enjoy your time on the road.

Stay in Designated Bike Lanes 

Stick to designated bike lanes or ride on the right side of the road. This helps avoid conflicts with vehicles and ensures a smoother journey, enhancing your safety during the ride.

Plan Your Route 

Before heading out, carefully plan your route. Choose well-lit paths with minimal traffic to enhance safety and enjoyment during your night ride. This preparation can make your ride more enjoyable and stress-free.

Wear a Helmet

Always wear a properly fitted helmet designed for cycling. This simple step can significantly reduce the risk of head injuries in cases of accidents, ensuring your safety while biking at night.

The Shouldn’ts

And now, the don’ts of night bike riding:

Riding with One Light Instead of Two

You should avoid cruising with just one light; double up for safety. One light may leave you in the dark, literally. Two lights ensure you’re visible from all angles, thereby reducing the risk of unseen dangers.

Wearing Dark Clothes

Opt for bright or reflective clothing to stand out in the darkness. Dark clothes might be your go-to, but they’re also a recipe for blending into the shadows. You don’t want to risk being invisible to oncoming drivers.

Tailgating Vehicles 

Give those vehicles some space; don’t ride on their tails. Maintain a safe distance behind vehicles to ensure you have room to react if they suddenly brake. Safety over shortcuts, always.

Riding Under the Influence

Never ride under the influence. Alcohol and bikes don’t mix. Impaired judgment and coordination increase the chances of accidents. If you want to enjoy a safe and smooth ride, then you should stay sober.

Riding till Your battery goes out

Riding until your lights die out leaves you vulnerable in the dark. Always charge up before hitting the road to ensure you stay visible and safe throughout your journey.

Not eating before a trip

Riding without fuel can lead to fatigue and decreased focus. Always have at least a little bite before you get on the road. 

Wrapping Up

A fun night trip can quickly turn sour if you’ve not followed the right precautionary steps. Before you set out into the night, you must be sure that you obey the right rules and set everything in order. If you’ve become a victim of an accident even after doing your part, then hire a competent lawyer and sue them for compensation.