Dublin Cycling Campaign’s initiative highlights importance of lighting up during winter
The Dublin Cycling Campaign’s Light Up Your Bike initiative is supported by Dublin City Council and the National Transport Authority, and aims to raise awareness about the importance of being visible during the winter months.
The launch of the initiative coincides with the clocks going back and the days getting shorter.
The use of bike lights is a legal requirement during “lighting-up time” – 30 minutes after sunset until 30 minutes before sunrise.
Failure to use bike lights during this time can result in a fixed charge notice from An Garda Síochána.
Una Morrison, Chair of the Dublin Cycling Campaign, said it’s important to keep everyone visible on our roads.
“This time of year, people get caught in the dark when they’re on their way home, and we’re just encouraging people to dust off their lights and make sure they have them with them,” she said.
“It’s about getting back into the habit: my keys, my lights, my bag – let’s go. It’s one last thing to remember after cycling in daylight for so long.
“As the evenings get darker, cyclists have to manoeuvre around more hazards, leaves on the ground, rain, puddles. Even if they’re well lit up, drivers need to give them space, especially with the slippery leaves,” she added.
Dublin Cycling Campaign volunteers will give out free bike lights at busy cycling areas in the capital. Pic: Cycling Ireland
Speaking about the Light Up Your Bike initiative, she said volunteers will be appearing at several high-traffic cycling locations in Dublin and Cork.
“It’s not just about handing out free lights, it’s about making sure everyone is thinking about their safety on the road – dusting off those lights, checking that they work, and making sure you’re visible at all times,” Ms Morrison said.
Details of times and locations will be shared on their social media channels, and the lights have been donated by the National Transport Authority.
Lucy Hayes, Dublin City Council Walking and Cycling Officer, added: “Dublin City Council is keen to support cycling as a year-round, fun, and safe active travel option.
“It’s essential that, along with the improved infrastructure and greenways for safer and more accessible cycling, cyclists must make sure they light up their bikes, both for each other and for other road users, as the darker evenings and mornings close in.”
Lord Mayor of Dublin, James Geoghegan, said cycling is a “great way to get around the city”, adding that it is important that cyclists “light up” as winter closes in.
“So, if you’re taking to the roads on two wheels, please check that your lights are working properly,” he added.
