Originally Posted by twahl

While you aren't likely to get in trouble for not having reflectors, just like in the county I live helmets are required but you won't see a police office stop anyone for it...when there is a requirement like that for your own safety and you are involved in an accident, liability becomes an issue, Picture yourself on the witness stand answering questions from the defendant's lawyer:

him: so the defendant came up from behind you and clipped you, sending you flying off your bike and into the gutter?
you: yes
him: where you suffered a broken arm and lacerations that required 42 stiches in total?
you: yes
him: and you were unable to work for 6 weeks while you had the cast on?
you: correct
him: were you aware that in the City of New York your bike is required to have front and real lights when riding at night?
you: yes
him: and was your bike equipped with the required equipment?
you: no
him: so how was the defendent supposed to see you in the dark?
you: *stupid look*
him: no further questions.

Same thing happens when cars have missing or defective equipment. If it's missing, you may not be found at fault, but neither will the person that actually caused the accident, so you are screwed.