Hey @Arlingtonva ACPD - should we ALSO NOT walk or drive at night as well?? Come on!!

ACPD, which was obviously just doing its job and trying to do its best... sent the following message to Arlco civic associations.

Greetings,
Dates to remember:
· May 8 is bike/walk to school day.
· May 17 is Bike to work day. We recommend biking during daylight hours. Make sure you obey the laws. I have attached a couple safety brochures for you to review and share. Be safe and have fun!

WHAT?!?  Wait wait.  Why exactly does ACPD recommend that we bike during daylight hours?  Is it safety?  Cause driving a car or being a pedestrian is also more dangerous at night.  Dont see ACPD recommending against driving at night or walking at night.  So why the hell should we not bike at night?

Once again, Arlco - "Bike Friendly Community" - master of the mixed message (we want you to bicycle but not really).

Here's a better idea.  Every year Bike Arlington (another part of the Arlington County government.... obviously another part) has a light up the night event where they hand out lights, reflectors, and reflective vests... encouraging cyclists, joggers, dog walkers, and even the occasional members of the ACPD to be more visible at night. (Bike Arlington does some really amazing work).

 
Here's a better recommendation:  We recommend that when you bike at light, you take care to make yourself highly visible: Front lights, rear lights, side reflectors, and reflective gear.  Lights that outline your body and move (leg bands) catch a driver's attention. That's a positive bike to work day message.

Bike Madison

Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority is hip on the recommendation.  Recently they announced that the WOD will be open for cyclists until 9 pm. ("Previously, the trail was considered off limits once the sun set.")  And what's NVPRA's recommendation?

All bicycles must be equipped with at least one white headlight light that is visible in clear weather from a distance of at least 500 feet to the front and a red reflector visible from 600 feet to the rear.  Additionally bicycles must be equipped with a taillight visible from a distance of at least 500 feet.  This taillight may be affixed to the bicycle or rider and may be steady or blinking.  Pedestrians,  are required to wear reflective clothing that can be easily seen from the front and rear and must carry a light or wear a flashing light.

We recommend that you go for a bike ride!