Well…did you remember?
Even if you forgot to put your clocks back this weekend, giving you that welcome extra hour in bed, cyclists and runners are being urged to remember to make sure they can be seen when they’re out during the darker evenings.
As of Sunday the clocks went back one hour which means sunset will now be at approximately 4:38pm.
With the evenings drawing in and cyclists, runners and walkers continuing to take to the roads and footpaths, people are being urged to think about their safety and make sure they can always be seen clearly by motorists.
Staffordshire County Council’s Cycling Team is now asking people to follow some simple steps to be seen and be safe during these darker evenings:
- Be Bright, Be Seen – Fluorescent and high-visibility clothing will greatly improve a driver’s ability to see you. Sports gear is often designed to be high-vis and it is worth investing in this essential kit. Bright clothing is also effective – a white t-shirt will be better seen than a black one.
- Accessorise – High-visibility vests, stickers and ankle straps will make any runner or cyclist flashier on the go. This is an easy and affordable way to stand out on the road and help motorists see you earlier. Cyclists, too, should always wear a helmet while on their bikes, as these could help prevent a serious injury.
- Lights – Cyclists must use cycle lights by law when pedalling at night, so invest in a good set and be prepared in winter that it can be dull during the day as well where lights maybe needed.
- Keep in lane – walkers and runners should use pedestrian paths, and cyclists are encouraged to use cycle lanes whenever they can. When riding on the road cyclist should ride away from the gutter to see and be seen clearer. Drivers should also give cyclists plenty of room when overtaking and be aware at junctions to look out for both cyclists and motorbikes.
- Know the road – knowing the route you are taking can help you be aware of tricky turns and unlit roads. Stay aware of where might be a blind spot to motorists coming around bends or at turns. It is also unadvisable to run or cycle on roads with headphones on, as these affect your awareness.
[box type=”shadow” align=”aligncenter” ]Mark Deaville, Cabinet Member for Transport and Highways at Staffordshire County Council is keen to remind people of the importance of being seen, with visibility affected by the darker evenings.
He said: “I would remind runners to stick to the footpaths and be aware of their surroundings while running. Wearing high-visibility clothing or brightly coloured clothes also makes you more visible so definitely worth investing in.
“For cyclists it’s really important to check your bike before riding and to make sure everything is working, including lights and reflectors. Again, cyclists should also wear bright or high-vis clothing to ensure they can be seen; and always wear a helmet, which could help prevent a serious injury.
“Drivers should also be aware that the setting sun can make seeing cyclists difficult so be cautious when overtaking, giving them plenty of room and look out for each other when driving and cycling on the roads.”[/box]
[box type=”info” align=”aligncenter” ]For more advice on cycling in Staffordshire and downloadable cycling maps for each district visit www.staffordshire.gov.uk/cycling. [/box]
