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

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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 front and rear lights to stay visible and safe on the roads.

The campaign was launched on the 20th November at Dublin City Hall bringing together the Lord Mayor of Dublin, Cllr Ray McAdam, along with the Mayor of South Dublin, Cllr Pamela Kearns, the Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Tom O’Leary, and An Cathaoirleach of Dún Laoghaire–Rathdown,  Cllr Jim Gildea in a show of unity for road safety across the Greater Dublin Area.

Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Tom O’Leary said “the Lights for Bikes campaign is a great initiative to promote Safer Cycling in Dublin. Fingal County Council is working to build Active Travel into everyday life as part of the daily routine. Since 2021, we have built 41.3km of cycle lanes in the Fingal area, and this campaign will remind cyclists that, in these darker months, the use of front and rear lights on their bikes will give them more visibility to other road users.”

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Also supporting the campaign are the National Transport Authority (NTA), the Road Safety Authority (RSA), the Dublin Cycling Campaign, and the Emergency Services — including Dublin Fire Brigade and An Garda Síochána.

Lord Mayor of Dublin, Cllr Ray McAdam said, “Cycling is an increasingly popular and sustainable way to get around our city. But as the days get shorter, being visible is vital. A simple set of lights can make all the difference in staying safe on the roads. I am delighted to join with my fellow Mayors across Dublin in supporting this important message.” 

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 once again support 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.