Originally Posted by
tarwheel
Running a headlight or helmet light seems to help in this regard. A helmet light in particular is really nice because you can stare down motorists who you suspect might do something stupid. Drivers rarely ever pull out in front of me since I started using a helmet light. I also have an extremely bright taillight (Dinotte) that performs the same function from the rear, and always wear bright colors.
I love helmet lights. I have 3 light and motion lights that I use at various times, a Seca 1400, Stella 300 and an old ARC Li-ion Ultra.
depending on your local, and law, I've found that helmet lights can be a "litigious challenge". From my experience in Los Angeles, Hollywood area, the cops are pretty strong on the california law which states bicycles are to have a handlebar mounted light. Use of a helmet light and especially shinning it into a car, can quickly turn into a traffic ticket. something along the lines of illegal use of lights and blinding motorists.
however, here in Monterey, Ca, I've never had an issue.