The number of winter bikers in Finland has grown strongly in recent years. Even though Finnish law requires cyclists to use a front light during the dark and misty season, only one out of every two bikes in is equipped with a light at present. In other words, every second cyclist is breaking the law.
The light’s purpose is to make the cyclist visible to both drivers of vehicles and other bikers. Technically, riding a bike without a front light can be fined.
On average 23 cyclists die and 900 are injured each year. Close to 70 percent of personal injuries to cyclists take place at intersections. If cyclists fly through an intersection without any kind of lights on display, motorists may find it impossible to see them. In case of an accident, the cyclist can be found responsible if his or her bike was not equipped with at least the front light required by law.
What exactly does the law say?
Finnish law clearly states that bike headlights must emit a white or pale yellow light. The light should be installed on the bike at least 30 centimetres from the ground, but no higher than 130 centimetres. The bike light needn’t be placed directly in the centre of the bike’s frame, as it can also be installed on the handlebars to the side.
A white light tells drivers, other cyclists and pedestrians that a cyclist is approaching, not retreating. This is why Finnish law prohibits using red lights in front, but does recommend using a red light at the rear of the bike. Using a white light as a rear light is prohibited. The law also says rear bike lights must be red.
Regulations also exist on the use of lights that are too bright, suggesting that front lights be installed so they point down so as not to blind others. Although the law doesn’t directly prohibit the use of blinking lights, it advises against it, as many associate a blinking light with a hazardous situation and find it highly distracting. Of course even a blinking light is better than no light at all, however.
Bike lights that are attached to helmets are helpful, but they cannot be the only light the cyclist relies on. The law requires that bike lights are attached to the bike itself. Helmet lights must also be attached so the light points down and the intensity of the light must not be too bright.
