SALT LAKE CITY- The Salt Lake City Transportation Division is partnering with Bike Utah, University of Utah Commuter Services and the Utah Transit Authority to provide free bicycle lights to riders on the road who are not properly equipped.
“Our annual bike light giveaway is just one of the many efforts we have underway to help residents stay safe and make active transportation choices a part of their commute and travel plans. These are the very steps that will help us all make positive impacts to our serious air quality issues,” said Mayor Ralph Becker.
The free lights will be distributed on Monday evening in Salt Lake City’s west side neighborhoods during a “Light Up the Night: Bike Light Giveaway” event from 4:30 p.m.-6 p.m. Officials say the goal of the giveaway “is to promote safety and prevent accidents through raising awareness about bicycle safety.”
With shorter days approaching, more bicycle commuters may find themselves riding home in the dark. City officials say it’s not only a bad idea to ride in the dark without a light, but it is also illegal.
Utah state law requires all bicycles to be equipped with a white headlight, red taillight or reflector and side reflectors when riding a half hour before sunset, a half hour before sunrise, or when it’s difficult to see 1,000 feet ahead. All lights must be visible from at least 500 feet. City officials say most fatal bike accidents involving motor vehicles occur between 4 p.m. and midnight, and the giveaway is just one of the ways they will prevent these accidents.
