Originally Posted by
CliffordK
I was thinking about this a bit more.
Bicycle lighting is one thing that DOT hasn't fully regulated for some reason. There is usually a requirement for lights, and some kind of a minimal candlepower. But, since they are often powered by batteries, the brightness can vary considerably. They are also local laws, and not federal regulations.
Blinking rear lights, and sometimes blinking front lights are pretty ubiquitous here in the USA. Blinking lights are illegal in parts of Europe. But, I think some countries also regulate lights much more, including requiring generators, or lights on some bikes 24 hours a day.
Perhaps it is time for the Federal DOT to start evaluating bicycle lighting. Also reflectors. I usually don't use spoke reflectors, but I'm happy with tire reflectors.
You're really close to realizing why they haven't bothered regulating bicycle lighting yet. Reflectors are cheap, don't require any power, and don't change technology every year. A law that is simple and easy to enforce across the board trumps our conceptions of what might be "perfect."
Once the DOT decided what kind of lighting every bike should have, it'd be mandated, the cost of every bicycle would go up, and we'd all grumble about the stock crap we had to pay for when we upgrade. Not to mention that that cost increase would be regressive.
I think we're just fine as we are. Anyone who cares about their safety can make the changes they feel are appropriate.