Originally Posted by Robert C

I lived in China for about over six years and I did notice that few cyclists used any lights at all; add to that the reality that bicycles never have the right of way and you get exactly what people expect, carnage.

What does that prove? nothing.

I do suppose that be seen lights are a bit pointless in an environment where you never have the right of way in the first place. . . (the logic is that bicycles are for poor people and cars are expensive; therefrom are used by more important people . .. and yes, the only word that translates is "important")

Back to the US, which seems to be the subject of discussion. Yes I use lights at night, and yes, largely to be seen. Sometimes I use a blinkie in the daytime; primarily when I am riding at the speed of, therefore mixing with, traffic.

I even got a dyno-hub on my most recent commuter bike so I wouldn't have to think as much about the light. That being said, I do side in with those who oppose legislated lights. First, I happen to be in favor of less laws as a general principle. Second, if the unexpected happens (look longer than planned, dead batteries. . . whatever) the law leaves you in a bad spot; whereas, without the law one can ride on by being hyper-vigilant.