It should come as no surprise that cyclist fatalities are more common after the sun goes down. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) clearly shows the majority of cyclist fatalities happen between 6PM and 9PM. Drivers involved in these crashes often tell police they simply couldn’t see the cyclist before the collision.
The NHTSA also notes that almost 85 percent of cyclists who die in car crashes are men, most of whom are in their 50s. Bicyclist fatalities are also more common in urban areas, which represent about 70 percent of total cyclist deaths.
To reduce the number of cyclist crashes at nighttime, there are many laws in California’s Vehicle Code (CVC) requiring cyclists to put headlights and reflectors on their bikes. Although not a requirement, safety officials highly recommend cyclists wear bright clothing when cycling at nighttime.
To read more about California’s laws for cyclists traveling after dusk, check out CVC 21201.