Originally Posted by
Charles Wahl
I know it's not going to be popular, but I'm going to suggest that "flashy-flashy" as part of a "see me" prophylactic strategy makes one
more likely to get hit. It's disorienting for drivers and other cyclists alike, in my opinion, and makes it more difficult to judge one's distance from the flasher. I believe (though I haven't looked it up lately) that in Germany, for instance, flashing lights are prohibited, for these reasons.
Obviously, the point
merziac is making is valid; hear, hear.
Was just reading Grant Petersen’s book Just Ride and he said the same thing. Blinking lights at night can be mesmerizing and “attract” drivers to the point they veer toward the “beacon.” He gave example of Police vehicles flashing lights and accidents which occur when they are parked. Recommends instead to run with lights on continuously not blinking.