Bicycle accessories for safety reduce your risk of injury while riding. Some of these accessories such as front lights and rear reflectors are required by laws from the Department of Motor Vehicles in the state. Other safety accessories like bright clothing and goggles are not mandated by law. In the United States, more than 500,000 people are treated in emergency rooms and more than 700 people die due to bicycle-related injuries, according to information provided by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Front Light
A light attached to the front of your bicycle is required by many states, including Washington and Connecticut, for night riding. These white lights need to be visible from a distance determined by the state's Department of Motor Vehicles. In Connecticut and Washington, the front white light must be visible from 500 feet.
Rear Reflector
A reflector attached to the rear of your bicycle not only improves your safety, it is the law in many states, including Connecticut and Washington. In Connecticut, the reflector must be visible from 600 feet away when illuminated by motor vehicle headlights. In Washington, the reflector must be the color red.
Bicycle Helmet
A bicycle helmet protects your head in the event of an accident or other unforeseen incident. This bicycle accessory for safety reduces the likelihood of head and brain injury for cyclists of all ages by 63 to 88 percent, according to information from BicyclingInfo.org, which is funded by the National Transportation Federal Highway Administration. Bicycle helmets must fit properly to offer maximum protection. The helmet should be well ventilated and have an adjustable chin strap. Some cities, including Seattle, require all riders to wear helmets.
Visible Clothing
Visible clothing is an important bicycle accessory for safety. For day riding, choose bright colors such as red and yellow that are easily seen by motorists. At night, choose clothing featuring reflective material. You can wear arm and leg bands or vests made of reflective material to make any outfit safe for night riding.
Eye Protection
Sports sunglasses or bicycle goggles that securely attach to your head are an important bicycle accessory for safety. Eye protection guards against bugs, dust and pebbles entering your eyes. Debris in your eyes can compromise your vision both short term and long term. Loss of vision, even for a few seconds, while riding your bicycle is a safety hazard and can cause an accident. A scratched cornea is an example of a preventable eye injury with long-term consequences.
References
- Connecticut Department of Transportation: Lights, Reflectors and Brakes on Bicycles
- Washington State Department of Transportation: Washington State Bicycle Laws
- BicyclingInfo.org: Wear a Helmet
- Rockville, Maryland: Facts, Figures and Tips for Bike to Work Day
- FamilyDoctor.org; Bike Safety Tips; 2010
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Bicycle Related Injuries; 2009
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