Lights for Bikes” Campaign Shines a Light on Safer Cycling in Dublin

As winter evenings grow darker, Dublin’s four local authorities have united to launch a major road safety campaign — “Lights for Bikes” — encouraging cyclists across the region to use to use front and rear lights to stay visible and safe on the roads. The campaign was launched this week at Dublin City Hall bringing together the Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Ray McAdam, along with Cllr Jim Gildea, Cathaoirleach, Dún Laoghaire–Rathdown County Council,  the Mayor of South Dublin Cllr Pamela Kearns, Councillor Tom O’Leary - the Mayor of Fingal,  in a show of unity for road safety across the Greater Dublin Area.

Cllr Jim Gildea, Cathaoirleach, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, said:

“I am delighted to take part in the launch of the ‘Light up your Bike’ initiative, along with colleagues from Dublin City Council, South Dublin County Council, Fingal County Council, An Garda Síochána, the Road Safety Authority, The National Transport Authority, Dublin Fire Services and the Dublin Cycling Campaign. This is an important safety campaign, particularly now with the darker evenings, and highlights how bike lights can be used are a simple but effective safety measure that will allow cyclists to be seen on the roads.

Joe Seymour, Assistant Director for Sustainable Transport Development at the National Transport Authority, said:

“As the evenings grow darker, using front and rear lights is essential for cyclists to stay visible and safe on the roads. The NTA is proud to support once again the ‘Lights for Bikes’ campaign, reminding everyone that a simple action—switching on your lights—can make a big difference in preventing collisions.”

The joint initiative aims to raise awareness of the importance of using front and rear bike lights, particularly during the darker evenings and early mornings of the winter season. The simple act of turning on bike lights can greatly reduce the risk of collisions, ensuring cyclists remain visible to drivers, pedestrians, and other road users. The “Lights for Bikes” will run throughout the winter months, amplified through social media and local authority channels, supported by visuals and awareness materials carrying the slogan: “Be Bright. Be Seen. Be Safe.”

The campaign reflects a united Dublin approach to road safety, reinforcing collaboration between local authorities, national agencies, and community partners to reduce road-related incidents and create safer streets for all.