News : City lights and darker nights loom 

Road Safety Officers in Lancashire, Greater Manchester and Merseyside are urging motorcyclists in the North West to invest in high visibility clothing as the clocks go back and winter approaches.

All motorcyclists are being advised to wear the best protective clothing they can afford, including textile jackets and trousers, or leathers, with CE approved armour and a back protector. But being seen on the road is equally important, as RideSafe BackSafe Project Co-ordinator, Shelby Williams explains;-

“ It will soon be dark when motorcyclists are travelling to and from work or college and the risk of not being seen on the roads is much greater than in summer time. Our cities and towns are now illuminated with more traffic lights and warning beacons, street lights and shop frontages than ever before and it is a lot for the mind’s eye to take in. Motorcycles and scooters are narrower than other vehicles and most only have a single headlight; this can make it difficult for other road users to see them and establish their speed and distance. Now is the time for motorcyclists to assess how conspicuous they are on busy roads in low light conditions, at night time and when bad weather reduces visibility. Regularly checking that your lights work properly is also important “

RideSafe BackSafe is recommending that bright, highly visible colours are worn when riding in good daylight, but highly reflective materials work better at other times. Many motorcycle clothing manufacturers now offer a range of clothing that take both of these needs in to account. Even wearing an inexpensive hi-vis bib would be beneficial.

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