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At night, and especially during the long winter nights, it's as important for bicyclists to flip on their lights as it is for them to wear helmets. Bike lights not only allow bicyclists to see where they're going, they also make it easier for drivers of four-wheeled vehicles to see them - something that can be difficult even in broad daylight.

Bike lights are so important, both the city of Missoula and the state of Montana have laws requiring their use. Specifically, bicyclists must have a front light capable of shining a beam at least 500 feet ahead, and a red rear reflector or flashing light, whenever they ride in the dark. Bikes must also be equipped with reflectors on their pedals and wheels.

Scofflaws can expect to get a ticket and pay a fine ranging from as little as $10 to as high as $81. Compare that to the cost of a low-end bike light set, which can be purchased at some retailers and bike repair shops for about $15.

The city of Missoula, however, recently bought 150 sets for a steal of a deal at less than $12 apiece as part of Mayor John Engen's bike light initiative, now in its third year. The initiative got its start during the winter of 2006 after 14-year-old Colin Heffernan was killed by a pickup truck that struck him as he was biking through the intersection at South Higgins and Beckwith avenues.

That's when Engen heard about Portland, Ore.'s bike light program and decided to establish one for Missoula, with a grant from the DUI Task Force, support from the Missoula City-County Health Department and help from Missoula-based Adventure Cycling.

So, for the third year in a row, Missoula police have the option of giving away bike lights to any bicyclists they catch riding without them - either along with a ticket or instead of one.

But bicyclists should not wait until they get pulled over to get themselves a light set. In fact, they shouldn't look to anyone but themselves to provide the appropriate bicycle safety gear. Bikers must take responsibility for their own personal safety by purchasing bike lights - and, of course, a helmet. And during these long, dark nights, it's not a bad idea to consider buying wearing bright clothing and reflective gear as well, such as a reflective vest that can be worn over a bulky winter coat.

It's plain to see that fewer bicyclists use Missoula's streets during the winter months than in the summer; once the snow starts flying, less-than-ideal biking conditions will further reduce that number. Consequently, drivers won't be expecting to see many bicyclists on the road.

Bikers could help draw attention to themselves by doing all they can to make themselves visible. The more bicyclists who use lights, the safer our roads will be - for everyone.

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