The short days and long nights that are naturally a part of winter mean that Illinois bicyclists who commute to work via their bikes will be riding home in the dark. It is important to note that a headlight not only gives you greater visibility while riding and makes you more visible to drivers, but it is the law. Bicyclists riding at nighttime must have the following on their bikes according to Illinois Bicycle Law:
- A lamp on the front that emits a white light that can be seen for 500 feet; and
- A red reflector visible from 100 to 600 feet by a car with its headlights on.
625 ILCS 5/11‑1507) (from Ch. 95 1/2, par. 11‑1507) - Lamps and other equipment on bicycles.
(a)
Every bicycle when in use at nighttime shall be equipped with a lamp on
the front which shall emit a white light visible from a distance of at
least 500 feet to the front and with a red reflector on the rear of a
type approved by the Department which shall be visible from all
distances from 100 feet to 600 feet to the rear when directly in front
of lawful lower beams of headlamps on a motor vehicle. A lamp emitting a
red light visible from a distance of 500 feet to the rear may be used
in addition to the red reflector.
Curiously, this Section also provides that a red light visible from 500 feet may be
used in conjunction with the rear red reflector. This is somewhat
awkward because it would make sense to allow a red light visible from
500 feet instead of a red
reflector that may only be visible from as little as 100 feet. I'll give the drafters of this law the benefit of the doubt and conclude that this addition was to encourage bicyclists to use red lights on their bikes. In any event, the law (as well as sound safety measures) require the use of a headlight and a reflector and at least encourages the use of a rear red light. With these long winter nights ahead, the use of a headlight and a taillight will get you home safely - and legally.
Keating Law Offices represents victims of bicycle accidents in courts throughout Illinois. The firm also represents clients in Illinois in personal injury and wrongful death claims with insurance companies prior to litigation. The firm is a national leader in the field of bicycle law. If you have any questions regarding this post or an issue involving Illinois personal injury law, contact Illinois Bicycle Attorney Mike Keating at 312-208-7702 or MKeating@KeatingLegal.com 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. All e-mails and phone calls are returned promptly. All initial consultations are confidential and free.
