In winter, the night stretches longer. The association Nice à Vélo is intensifying its efforts to raise awareness about cyclist lighting with the campaign “Cyclists, Shine!” Supported by the FUB, there are four more meetings to attend to learn the right practices.
With the arrival of winter, cycling becomes riskier. The visibility of cyclists, essential to their safety, is still too often neglected. In November and December, Nice à Vélo and its branch Cagnes à Vélo are participating in the “Cyclists, Shine!” campaign. The objective? To raise awareness about the importance of lighting and to distribute visibility accessories.
Created in 2019, Nice à Vélo advocates for a more bike-friendly city and cleaner air. Through this campaign, the association reminds that seeing and being seen is vital.
Four awareness actions will be held near the cycle paths with free distribution of visibility accessories such as lights, reflective vests, or reflectors. Volunteers will also inform cyclists about mandatory equipment. Meet this Monday, November 18, at the intersection of Molière Street and Théodore de Banville. Other actions will take place on Tuesday, November 19 in Cagnes-sur-Mer, on the Promenade de la Plage, then on Wednesday, November 20 in Nice, at Place Grimaldi, and on Wednesday, December 4 in Nice, on the Promenade des Anglais at Carras.
These actions are supported by the Road Safety Delegation and local bike shops. “Enhancing cyclist safety involves better visibility and respecting the rules. Regular awareness is essential to reduce nighttime accidents,” assures the Nice à Vélo association.
Alarming Figures
Even though less than 10% of bike trips occur at night, these trips account for 17% of fatal accidents. The lack of lighting is to blame: 57% of cyclists are poorly equipped in these conditions.
The rules are clear: a bicycle must be equipped with a white front light, a red rear light, and reflectors on the wheels, pedals, and rear. Outside urban areas, a reflective vest is mandatory at night. However, many are unaware of or neglect these requirements.
To guide cyclists in their choices, the FUB (French Federation of Bicycle Users) conducts annual equipment tests and publishes the results in a report available online.
The campaign will conclude on Friday, December 6 with an illuminated bike parade. The procession, accompanied by a mobile DJ set, will depart at 7:30 PM from the traverse de la Bourgada in Nice. A festive evening will follow at La Trésorerie (Trachel Street).
More information on the website: https://www.niceavelo.org
