Cycling when light fades: what should you check about lights and a visibility vest?

In France, before a bicycle journey, check the lights for the conditions you will encounter. They are required at night and also during the day when visibility is insufficient. These points concern position lights, some reflectors and the visibility vest, not all bicycle equipment.

In these conditions, the bicycle must have a front position light emitting non-dazzling yellow or white light. An additional light does not remove this requirement on the bicycle.

The rear position light must not flash. It must be clearly visible from behind when a rider is on the bicycle: consider the actual situation with the rider, not just the bicycle standing without anyone on it.

Reflectors complement the lights. Service Public lists mandatory reflectors including white at the front, red at the rear and orange on the pedals. They are also required during the day and do not replace the lights needed at night or when visibility is insufficient.

Outside built-up areas, at night or during the day when visibility is insufficient, both the bicycle rider and passenger must wear a high-visibility vest that complies with regulations. Keep these precise conditions in mind when preparing your journey.

Before departure, identify any missing, faulty or non-compliant light and anything that could obscure the rear light. Address these points and prepare the vest for the relevant conditions. Do not rely on an extra accessory to compensate for a required light that does not work.