Category: reflective vest

Compulsory or recommended, many items of equipment help to ensure your safety on the bike. Culture Vélo Georget, in Louviers, can advise you.

 

Cycling specialist since 1928

Established between Evreux and Rouen in the town of Louviers, in Eure (27) in Normandy, since 1928, the Culture Vélo Georgette store is one of the oldest specialized brands in France, and the largest in Normandy with a stock of more than 400 models of road, MTB, VAE (Electrically assisted bicycle) or children. Culture Vélo Georgette offers renowned brands such as Mustache, Trek, Cannondale, Scott, Lapierre, Look, or O2Feel. Since January 1, the marking of new bicycles is compulsory. “400,000 bikes are stolen each year and only 2% are found,” explains Cédric Lecerf, store manager in Louviers. “In Denmark and Norway, where the marking of new cycles is already an obligation, 30% are returned to their owner.” A good lock is therefore essential in your outfit for the perfect cyclist. “The choice of the lock must be made about the use of the bicycle; for racing type use, a spiral lock may be sufficient; if you use your bike for your daily commute, opt instead for a chain or even a folding lock made of hardened steel, and almost inviolable material. The important thing is to secure the frame of the bike”. Count from € 5 for a spiral lock, € 39 for a chain, € 90 for a sound lock, and € 130 for a connected model.

 

Your bicycle safety is priceless!

At Culture Vélo Georgette, you will also find all the essentials for your safety. Starting with a wide range of helmets, for all ages and all types of sports, from € 34. “Helmets are compulsory up to 12 years old and strongly recommended beyond” specifies Cédric Lecerf. “A good helmet offers, in particular, a molding between the outer shell and the lower layer, and some models are equipped with MIPS technology which offers better shock absorption and thus limits the risk of concussion.” Reflectors (retro-reflective devices) and audible warning devices are also compulsory, as is the wearing of a reflective vest when driving outside built-up areas. The installation of lighting systems, mirrors, and hazard spreaders is also recommended by our expert. “Some flashes of light, which are installed on the back of the bike, are visible up to two kilometers! And the danger spreader, for example, also enhances the visibility of cyclists and is very reassuring”. And all this for just a few euros!

 

It is getting warmer, we can already meet a lot of cyclists on the bicycle paths, especially since the time of the pandemic especially encourages the use of “two wheels” instead of public transport. However, before we start the season for good, it is worth checking if our vehicle meets all the requirements. This is also the time to remember the rules.

 

“In general, we all know how a bicycle should be equipped. All children understand it, especially those who have reached the age of 10 and have obtained a bicycle license, but later, we adults forget about it,” comments Wiktor Kaczmarek from the Road Traffic Department of the Municipal Headquarters Police in Elbląg.

 

Therefore, let us remind you that a bicycle must be equipped with: a sound indicator and at least one efficient brake, and it should be properly lit. After dark, the bicycle must have a front position lamp, a stationary rear lamp, and a reflective element other than a triangle.

 

Interestingly, the road traffic law does not mention a helmet as a necessary piece of equipment for a cyclist. However, the police urge everyone to use this element of security, just like a reflective vest. If our bike meets the necessary basics, it is worth remembering the road regulations for a cyclist.

 

What a cyclist cannot?

 

The rider is forbidden to:

– driving on the road next to another road user,

 

– driving without keeping at least one hand on the steering wheel and feet on the pedals or footrests,

 

– clinging to vehicles,

 

– driving a bicycle while drunk, after the use of alcohol or a substance similar to alcohol,

 

– transporting a passenger who is intoxicated, under the influence of alcohol or another substance similar to alcohol,

 

– crossing a pedestrian crossing – a cyclist is obliged to get off the vehicle, lead it across the road, and continue riding only after the crossing,

 

– using a telephone that requires a handset or microphone to be held,

 

– entry to motorways (marked with the D-9 sign), expressways (marked with the D-7 sign),

 

– towing another cyclist or a person using, for example, roller skates, sleds, or a skateboard.

 

What a cyclist can?

– It is exceptionally allowed to ride a bicycle on the road next to another bicycle or moped if it does not hinder the movement of other road users or otherwise does not endanger the safety of road traffic,

 

– It is allowed to transport children in a trailer structurally adapted for the transport of people, pulled by a bicycle or a bicycle cart.

A warning triangle is part of the mandatory equipment of every vehicle. Probably every driver knows that. But there are a lot of question marks about its use in the event of an accident or immobility of the vehicle. Let’s take a closer look.

 

You may encounter many unexpected situations on the road. These include those that can (temporarily) immobilize your car. For example, a collision with animals, a flat tire, an unexpected failure, or a collision will not please you. And if you don’t mark the vehicle correctly in such a situation, your mood can be spoiled by a fine.

 

Location of the warning triangle

If you have the opportunity, try to park your vehicle as close as possible to the right edge of the road. There, you are in much less danger of being overlooked by someone than in the fast left lane. If the current technical condition of the vehicle allows it, switch on the hazard warning lights immediately to warn other drivers of an obstacle on the road. Leave it released at least until you have placed the warning triangle. Before getting out of the vehicle, don’t forget to wear a reflective vest.

 

When placing the warning triangle, you must follow §26 paragraph 3 of Act 361/2000 Coll. It says that the warning triangle must be located at the right edge of the road at least 50 meters behind the vehicle. The motorway is 100 meters away. If you can’t easily estimate the distance of 50 m, you can step on it. We assume that the average step of adult measures about 75 cm. Thanks to this, you will know that you just have to walk 70 – 80 steps away from the car and build a triangle there.

 

If you are unable to operate the car yourself, you should take an active part in removing it from the road. Either a professional towing service or even a friend who will come for you and tow you on a rope can help you with that. Until then, you should think mainly about the safety of yourself and others.

 

Warning triangle for slow vehicles

A special category is the warning triangle for slow vehicles. This must mark all vehicles with a maximum design speed of 40 km / h. These are, for example, tractors or other agricultural and forestry machines.

 

The warning triangle must have such vehicles on the rear half of the vehicle in the left half. The lower edge of the triangle must be at least 250 mm above the ground and the highest apex must not be higher than 1 500 mm above the ground.

This year’s summer does not resemble the previous ones, but it does not mean that we should give up the well-deserved rest. A good summer holiday is usually a long trip. How should you prepare your car for such an escapade? What to check, what to repair, and what must be replaced? And finally – what should you take with you on a long holiday trip? You will find answers to all these questions in this summer edition of the iParts.pl guide!

 

A quick check under the hood

Let’s hope that the worse half of the year is behind us. Finally, you will be able to relax a bit and enjoy a really enjoyable summer. The holiday period theoretically started in May, but in Poland, it more and more often starts only in August. With this in mind, we have prepared this short guide for everyone who intends to pack themselves, family, loved ones in a car and go somewhere longer – to the mountains or the sea, not necessarily Polish. Each such holiday trip is a challenge not only for the driver but above all for his car. Therefore, it should always be preceded by appropriate preparations. How should they proceed?

 

Every driver who has carried out a thorough inspection and maintenance of the car in the spring – explains our reliable expert iParts.pl – does not have to make any special preparations for the summer. However, if you are going on a longer, typically holiday route, a quick check of the condition of the car and its key systems is simply a must.

 

In the beginning, the simplest things, everything that each of you can do completely independently and without going under the car. So, we pick up the hood and:

 

First, check the condition of the rubber hoses in the engine compartment. Any signs of damage, chafing, cracking, or scuffing qualify the cable for immediate replacement.

Then we start operating fluids. You should check all of them, with particular emphasis on:

brake fluid,

washer fluid (so often overlooked)

and power steering fluid.

It is best to simply replace the brake fluid with a new one, as is the brake fluid. If you’re still using 15W40 mineral oil, it might be a good idea to replace it with 10W40 semi-synthetic oil.

 

You should also replace the fuel filter, which – if it is already a bit clogged – can cause a lot of problems especially in the case of diesel.

For necessary checking and possible replacement (with any signs of wear) there are also:

V-belts,

fuses,

car bulbs.

Before going under the car, you should also check the condition of the battery and wipers. If you haven’t replaced your wipers in the spring, you should do it right now. Don’t wait until you see for yourself what a summer storm can do.

 

A thorough inspection of the chassis, wheels, and tires

After checking what we have access to after lifting the hood or taking a seat in the driver’s seat, it’s time to go a little lower. Lifting the car will allow you, first of all, to check the condition of the brake hoses, both flexible and rigid. In the case of older cars that have already been inspected some time ago, such an inspection is strongly recommended. Any damage to the cables can be found and removed at this stage – their replacement will simply be a necessity here. What else?

 

With the car on a jack, it is good to check the condition of the wheel, especially the rocker arm bearing and bushing. And – which seems obvious, unfortunately not for everyone – we carry out a thorough inspection of the condition of car tires.

 

The condition of the tires in the car should be checked before each long journey – advises the iParts.pl expert – especially in the summer, during a holiday trip, when we take the whole family with us, and there is a lot of traffic on the main routes. And it is not only about checking the tread height, but also about the general condition of the tire. We pay attention to any cracks, bulges, and pressure. Tire pressure control is extremely important, because too low pressure not only increases fuel consumption by up to 25% and accelerates tire wear, but also reduces the possibility of making sudden, saving maneuvers.

 

When checking the condition of tires, always pay attention to the date of production. Remember that a tire that is more than 10 years old is not suitable for use, especially on longer journeys. If you quickly order a new set of tires on iParts.pl, you can easily replace them before the planned holiday departure day.

 

Important trunk contents

Preparing the car for summer, or only for a summer trip, involves not only checking and replacing parts but also checking the contents of the luggage compartment and supplying it properly. As part of these activities, what should you keep in mind?

 

If you have a spare tire, be sure to check its condition, including tire pressure.

Make sure you have a basic set of spanners for servicing the spare wheel and more.

If your car does not have a spare wheel, get a good tire repair kit.

Make sure you have a warning triangle, a fire extinguisher, and a reflective vest in your vehicle.

You should also put in the trunk:

demineralized water – in the event of a cooler failure,

brake fluid supply – 1 liter is enough,

engine oil – remember that modern engines (unlike the older ones) require engine oil topped up to the maximum,

power steering fluid,

a set of replacement bulbs – in some European countries it is a must-have for every car.

a set of basic tools – flat and Phillips screwdriver, pliers, hammer,

flashlight – so-called headlamp,

good adhesive tape,

first aid kit.

In addition, the car should also have a place for a large amount of water and a packed lunch, which is simply necessary during long summer journeys.

 

Air conditioning service and comfort systems

Whoever missed the spring car check-up and the related maintenance of several key systems in their car, should make up for it in summer as soon as possible. Before the holiday trip, first of all, it will be necessary to service the air conditioning. The air-conditioning system must be checked, cleaned and refrigerant replenished because now comes the real test time for it.

 

You should also check all the comfort systems in the car. So not only air conditioning is important here, but also all multimedia and navigation. Although these systems do not play the same important role as the braking system or clutch, when going on a long, holiday route, it is better to ensure that the comfort of travel is as high as possible for everyone.

Another holiday weekend is ahead of us. Probably many of us will go for a ride at this time by bicycle. Read what is worth remembering, what cannot be overlooked, and what rules to follow to keep your cycling time free from worries and completely safe.

 

During the holidays, we prefer to spend our free time in nature. Often in an active and sporty way. The choice of many people, in this case, is the bicycle. Equally often, we use this means of transport to get to the workplace. Anyone who uses a bicycle on the road should know that a bicycle, like a car or any other vehicle, must meet safety requirements. It should be operational and have obligatory equipment, which should be taken into account, preferably at the stage of buying the bicycle.

 

The bicycle should be equipped with:

 

at the front – at least one white or selective yellow position light (maybe flashing);

at the rear – at least one red reflex reflector not triangular in shape and at least one red position lamp (maybe flashing);

at least one effective brake;

with a bell or other warning signal with a non-piercing sound.

The bicycle can be equipped with:

 

at the front – white reflective light;

on wheels – car yellow reflectors (at least one per wheel);

on pedals – yellow reflective lights;

Continuous ring-shaped reflective stripe on both sides of the tire, or continuous ring-shaped reflective elements on the side surfaces of the wheels.

a bicycle helmet and a reflective vest are not obligatory, but it is worth using them. The helmet protects our head in the event of a fall.

the vest increases our visibility, giving other road users time to behave appropriately.

As active road users, we must bear in mind a few obligations that lie on us as cyclists:

 

– the bicycle rider is obliged to use the bicycle lane or the bicycle lane. The cycle path is marked with a mandatory sign (C-13),

 

– if the cyclist moves along the path for bicycles and pedestrians, he should exercise particular caution and give way to pedestrians,

 

– a child up to 7 years of age may be transported on a bicycle, provided that it is placed on an additional seat,

 

– the cyclist is forbidden to cling to vehicles and ride next to another bike unless this ride does not hinder the movement of other road users.

 

A cyclist can use pavement or a pedestrian path in several cases:

 

– when he is looking after a person under 10 who also rides a bicycle,

 

– when the sidewalk is more than two meters wide, and vehicle traffic is allowed at speeds higher than 50 km / h, we can also drive on the sidewalk,

 

– the last situation is unfavorable weather conditions (snow, strong wind, downpour, dense fog). While walking on the pavement, a cyclist is obliged to drive slowly, be particularly careful and give way to pedestrians, while crossing a bicycle crossing we have priority over vehicles, but it does not release us from the need to be particularly careful in these places and reduce the speed with which we

are driving, do not cross after a pedestrian crossing. At these points, we are obliged to get off the bike and take it to the other side.

 

We should never get on the bike after drinking alcohol. The action of this measure causes our reactions on the road to be delayed so that our driving can lead to a dangerous event. Riding a bicycle while under the influence of alcohol or intoxication is an offense and may result in arrest or a fine.

Boosted by the coronavirus crisis, cycling is experiencing an unprecedented craze. Popular for everyday and professional journeys, this ecological mode of transport is increasingly appealing to urbanites. But like any means of transportation, it exposes people to risks.

 

Accident, theft, material damage… The bicycle can suffer the same hazards like a car or a motorcycle. While taking out specific bicycle insurance is not compulsory, other guarantees can protect you.

 

In the event of an accident

Just like with a car or a two-wheeler, you can be the victim of a bicycle accident. When this mishap takes place with a land motor vehicle, the cyclist is fully compensated by the motorist’s insurer for his bodily injury. Unless, of course, if he committed an inexcusable fault. Material damage, caused to the cycle, for example, is also compensated by the insurance of the driver at fault. The legal protection guarantee of your multi-risk home contract can also cover recourse to possible persons responsible.

 

On the other hand, when the cyclist is responsible for the accident, it is the civil liability guarantee, generally also included in the home contract, which plays in the compensation for the damage caused. It is the same if the collision takes place with another cyclist or a pedestrian. In this case, certain contracts, like the guarantee of the accidents of the life (GAV), can give the right to additional compensation for the bodily injuries.

 

Finally, if you fall off your bike on your own, that is to say, an accident without liability, it is Social Security and your complementary health insurance which will reimburse or advance medical services. Here again, the GAV can provide additional indemnities to compensate for a loss of salary or a disability, for example.

 

In case of theft

If the bicycle is more and more popular, it also makes thieves happy. Every year, no less than 500,000 of these two-wheelers are stolen. If your bike is stolen after breaking into your home or in insured outbuildings (garage, cellar, etc.), you may be compensated by your home insurance.

 

However, you are not covered for a theft that takes place outside your home. You must take out special insurance for this. It can be an optional guarantee of your home contract, specific insurance for the theft and breakage of your two-wheeler, or even insurance linked to a sports license. But be careful, to be sure you are well covered in the event of a problem, you must follow the instructions imposed by the insurer. For example, you need to invest in a specific anti-theft device. Indeed, your bike must be connected to a fixed point by the frame and the rear wheel. Some contracts also place limits on their guarantees: insurance from 7 am to 9 pm only, limit on the number of flights per insurance period, guarantee ceilings, discount…

 

What mandatory security measures?

 

The use of the bicycle requires special equipment, sometimes even compulsory. Helmets have been required to wear a helmet in particular for children under the age of 12 since 2017 and remain highly recommended for older children. Likewise, if you drive at night, outside built-up areas, you must wear a reflective vest. Finally, your two-wheeler must imperatively be equipped with at least a braking and lighting system at the front and rear, an audible warning device that makes it possible to be heard at least 50 m away, and reflective devices.

Some time ago, light bulbs and fuses fell out of the mandatory equipment of cars. The composition of the first aid kit has also been simplified.

 

Mandatory car equipment is a common element that police officers examine during roadside checks. For many drivers, it used to be a scarecrow, but from October 1, 2018, mandatory equipment has been simplified in many ways. So what is obligatory to take with you in 2020 and what is no longer necessary?

 

For 2020, the mandatory equipment of the car consists of a reflective vest, a warning triangle, and a first aid kit. On the contrary, a set of fuses and spare bulbs is no longer mandatory. The amendment to the Decree on the Approval of Technical Competence and the Technical Conditions for the Operation of Vehicles on Roads (No. 341/2014 Coll.) This reflects the technical conveniences of 21st-century cars. After all, in the age of xenon and diode headlights, the driver does not change the bulb anyway.

 

In this context, it is also necessary to mention the simplified obligation to carry a spare wheel and a replacement kit. If the car is equipped with so-called running tires enabling indication of a defect and emergency approach, a spare wheel is not mandatory.

 

Even those drivers who, thanks to the assistance service, have a damaged tire replaced or repaired continuously throughout the Czech Republic do not have to carry the reserve with them. An alternative to the spare wheel is a tire repair kit.

 

However, if you do not meet either, you will still need to carry a spare wheel (tire rim), including a wheel wrench and a hand jack with sufficient capacity.

 

As for the first aid kit, from October 2018, it no longer has to include a three-pronged scarf, a patch with a cushion, and a plastic drape. There is also an obligation to change the first-aid kit due to the end of expiration. However, if you use one of the elements, you must of course add it.

 

And what is mandatory within the first aid kit? These are the following seven elements: a bandage finished with one pad, a bandage finished with two pads, a smooth spool patch, a rubber choke bandage, rubber latex gloves, scissors, and an isothermal foil, at least 200 x 140 centimeters.

 

When traveling abroad, it is not out of the question to see what the mandatory equipment is in that country. Yes, although the Vienna Convention of 1968 states that a vehicle should be equipped according to the country in which it is registered, its enforcement is sometimes problematic. Although local police officers should take into account during the inspection that the mandatory equipment in the Czech Republic may differ from the given state, the duplication of laws often complicates the situation. For example, when it is the duty to wear a reflective vest when getting out of a vehicle on the motorway – this is no longer covered by the Vienna Convention.

 

Therefore, when driving abroad, we recommend that you bring a tow rope or reflective vests for all crew members (not only for the driver), which should also be within reach, so they should be located in the cabin and not at the bottom of the boot. In Bulgaria or Poland, it is mandatory to have a fire extinguisher with you, in France an alcohol tester. In winter, pay attention to the local obligation of winter tires.

The National Traffic Code of our country defines a bicycle as a “non-motorized vehicle with two (2) or more wheels in line, which moves exclusively by the muscular effort of the person (s) who occupy it using pedals”.

And this vehicle is precisely the preferred means of transportation for many Colombians. Not only in the countryside but also the cities, the bicycle has been incorporated into daily mobility to go to work, to school, to university. When traveling on the street or the bike path, it is important that the bi-user knows and knows the importance of seeing and becoming visible,  essential to circulate on public roads.

Make yourself visible

Cyclists must be visible on the road, for this it is necessary:

uses vests or jackets that make visible to drivers, including between 6 pm and 6 am or where climatic or environmental conditions hinder visibility.

If riding at night, they should have a white light on the front of the bike and a red light on the rear.

Characteristics of a good bicycle light

1. The luminous power

There are two types of lights: those that the cyclist needs to be visible, which are those that are recommended for driving on a sufficiently illuminated street. The second category is lighted with suitable power and light beam to illuminate the path of the bi-user.

2. The mount

The light mount for urban cycling is the one that allows you to mount and remove the lights quickly and easily. Some mounts are fixed to the bicycle cleta with screw clamps (many without tools), and the lamp is attached by quick release systems. Others hug the handlebar or seat post using silicone saddles.

3. The switch

A good switch is one that enc ie NDE,  off and change so easily. A good switch  prevents the l uz  lights accident almente to being inside the backpack or where the rider while carrying does not use it, and thus prevents the battery from being wasted.

4. The beam of light

The beam of light mustn’t be too wide (especially in lamps over 100lm )  to avoid dazzling other people on the streets.

5. Side visibility

It is also important that the light can generate lateral visibility, since it is not only important to be visible to the person in front of the cyclist but also to the person who, for example, crosses at an intersection with the bi-user. The light must give you 180-degree visibility.

Road safety also depends on the cyclist

98 thousand 362 pesos is the value of the fine to the cyclist who does not wear a reflective vest or carry the lights at the times that its mandatory use is regulated. The vest or jacket must not have superimposed elements that prevent the bi-user from being visible. Road safety is not only guaranteed by those who drive motor vehicles, it is also the responsibility of those who use the bicycle for their daily mobility.

The new rules for the circulation of electric scooters have come into force, now increasingly widespread also on the roads of Piacenza. The main contents established decree-law are these:

MINIMUM AGE –  The electric scooter can only be used from 14 years upwards, and only on urban roads where the limit of 50 km / h is foreseen. On extra-urban roads, circulation is allowed only in the presence of cycle paths.

MAXIMUM SPEED –  The maximum speed allowed is 25 km / h on the carriageway and 6 km / h in pedestrian areas. Scooters without front and rear lights cannot circulate in low light hours in the evening and night and during the day in particular weather conditions. The penalties can vary from 100 to 400 euros.

HELMET AND JACKET – Underage drivers must wear a helmet and keep their arms and hands-free unless it is necessary to signal the turning maneuver. It is forbidden to carry other people, objects, or animals. From half an hour after sunset, during the whole period of darkness and the day, drivers must wear the high visibility reflective vest or suspenders. Otherwise, you risk a fine of 50 to 200 euros.

RENTAL –  Finally, scooter rental and sharing services can only be activated with a municipal council resolution. The Municipality of Piacenza, in this sense, has not yet expressed itself.

These innovations were made known by the Observatory for road safety education of the Emilia-Romagna Region, also expressing some perplexities: “We stigmatize the lack of training for those who use these devices – intervenes the president  Mauro Sorbie  – because their management requires quick reflexes and a strong sense of balance. Furthermore, it would be appropriate to extend the obligation to carry an identity document, precisely to facilitate the task of the police in the checks on scooters”.

The Ministry of Health (Minsa) reported that the use of bicycles instead of public transport reduces the possibility of contagion of the new coronavirus. In this sense, the health sector promoted the use of this medium.

According to Alexandro Saco, director of Health Promotion of the Minsa, detailed that in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, the bicycle has become an effective alternative that avoids crowds and reduces the possibility of contagion about public transport.

Also, he maintained that it is affordable, reliable, clean, ecological, and benefits health. It also avoids a sedentary lifestyle, which is one of the risk factors for chronic non-communicable diseases (diabetes, hypertension, obesity), and contributes to improving good air quality in cities and recovering public space.

According to the Minsa, according to recent studies, it is known that 220,000 residents of Metropolitan Lima regularly use bicycles as a means of transportation, that is, 3%. Of this universe, 40% said that they would be willing to continue traveling on two wheels when the state of emergency has ended, to avoid contagions and due to the speed of the transfer, which would lead to an increase in cyclists in the city.

“The COVID-19 pandemic generated crises in various areas. Likewise, it meant an opportunity to value health and life; many people increased their active lives and found cycling a way to stay healthy and prevent the risks of COVID-19 transmission in public transport”, said Alexandro Saco, director of Health Promotion of the Minsa.

In this sense, Alexandro Saco advised to keep the bicycle in good condition (brakes, tires, lights, chain, rudder, bell); wear a protective helmet, reflective vest, cycling gloves, and a face mask; and respect the regulations and traffic signs.