Originally Posted by
trackhub
This
Jogalite stuff seems to work well. But, I consider a rear reflector to be a "backup" to my planet bike superflash. Yes, it's quite bright and visible. In these "dark times" I also like reflective leg bands.
Massachusetts law is similar to other states' laws: A white headlight, visible for 500 feet, is required. There is no maximum power specified.
Does anyone know of any state law that specifies that your headlamp cannot be over a certain power? Oddly enough, a red tail light is
not required, but sensible cyclists use one anyway. A red reflector meets MA's requirement. I think most of these state laws were written decades ago, and need to be updated, as lighting technology has changed quite a bit.
Today's cycling lights are great, a vast improvement from what we had 30 years ago.
I've asked two people that I would have thought that would know the answer to this question. And so far the only response that I have received is:
"That is a good question."
And
"That is an excellent question."
Both said that they would ask their law enforcement liaison. And in the case of the person who responded with "that is an excellent question," also responded with "that is an excellent question." But posted it to the
Florida Bicycle Law web site.
This is one of the sections of the law that was quoted:
<quote>
FS 316.233 – Spot Lamps and Auxiliary Lamps
(1) Any
motor vehicle may be equipped … and every lighted spot lamp shall be aimed and used that no part of the high intensity portion of the beam will strike the windshield … or occupant of another vehicle in use.
</quote>
And this:
<quote>
FS 316.215 – Scope and Effect of Regulation
(1) It is a violation of this chapter for any person to drive or move …
any vehicle … which is in such an unsafe condition as to
endanger any person ….
</quote>
In the first it takes about motor vehicles. In the second talks about any vehicle. But nowhere does it specify how bright is too bright.