As the days get shorter, lighting plays an important role for cyclists and e‑bike riders. Since January 2022, e‑bikes of all categories must also be ridden with lights during the day. This does not apply to conventional bicycles, but here too, lights during the day make sense to make you more visible. Make sure that your lights do not blind others.
When do you have to turn on your lights?
At night, when riding through a tunnel or in heavy fog, lights are required by law. Ignoring this rule can result in fines of 20 to 60 francs. You should also attach importance to bright and highly visible accessories such as spoke reflectors or reflective tires.
Increased visibility through reflectors and clothing
If you are out and about in the dark, you will be particularly visible if you are wearing light-colored or reflective clothing. Reflectors on arms and legs are particularly effective at increasing visibility, as these are in motion and are therefore more quickly noticed by other road users. Cyclists also benefit from high-visibility vests, which attract attention.
Additional lighting for scooters and the like
Even if you are out and about on a scooter or skateboard, you should not do without lighting in the dark. White lights at the front and red lights at the back are helpful for not being overlooked even in poor light conditions.
Clean headlights for cars and motorcycles
For vehicles such as cars, motorcycles and e‑bikes, lights are mandatory not only in the dark but also during the day. It is particularly important that the headlights are clean so that they develop their full luminosity and ensure maximum safety.
Tips from the Swiss Council for Accident Prevention (BFU)
- Wear light-colored, reflective clothing – preferably in bright colors, and reflectors on arms and legs at night.
- Attach sufficient lighting and reflectors to your bicycle and e‑bike, especially for riding in the dark.
- Ride with your lights on day and night, and clean your headlights regularly.
- Also use lights on scooters and other means of transport for visibility in the dark.
