Almost 200 bicycle accidents occurred in the city of Lucerne last year. The Lucerne accident insurer Suva warns against being overlooked on the street in the dark winter months. In Lucerne, people have been trying to raise awareness of the topic for years.
It is a fact that there are more bicycles in the city of Lucerne than ever before. The lockdown in spring also fueled the bike boom.
The mild winters of recent years also make it possible to spend practically the whole year on the saddle. In the autumn and winter months, however, this means that the journey takes place more often at dusk or in the dark. The accident insurer Suva, based in Lucerne, is now warning of the associated risk of accidents.
7,000 bicycle accidents in the winter months
Between October and March, accident insurers count an average of 7,000 bicycle accidents in road traffic, writes Suva in a report. Many accidents with bicycles occur because cyclists are badly seen by other road users. “When it gets darker outside again, it is all the more important when cycling that you are seen by other road users on the road,” the report continues.
Suva makes recommendations for better visibility during the dark season. First of all, reference is made to seven mandatory elements of Velo equipment:
White reflectors at the front, at least 10 cm2 in size
Red reflectors at the back, at least 10 cm2 in size
Orange reflectors on the front and rear pedals
A white, round light in front, visible from at least 100 meters (at night and dusk)
A red, dormant light in the back (at night and in the twilight)
A flashing red light is also recommended
Two effective brakes
Intact pumped tires (tires adapted to the season)
Also, there are five other recommended elements:
Reflectors on the spokes
The luminous vest or reflective accessories such as gloves and bracelets (at night and dusk)
Light on the helmet (at night and dusk)
Reflective tires
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Lucerne knows the “day of light”
At Pro Velo Luzern, the issue of visibility is well known, as Co-President Korintha Bärtsch confirms on request. In recent years, the association organized the “Day of Light” campaign together with the Swiss Transport Club (VCS) and the Lucerne police, and the Velocipede specialist shop.
“We inform and advise cyclists on all aspects of visibility,” explains Bärtsch. “We give practical tips, such as the fact that the reflective trouser strap can also be used on the sleeve of a dark coat. Or that light instead of dark helmets is the right choice in such conditions.”