Optimal visibility at night: lighting and reflectors for e-scooters

Stay safe on the road: The right lighting for e-scooters at night
Riding an e-scooter at night requires, above all, proper preparation. Lighting regulations ensure you are better seen and protect other road users. Therefore, you should know the rules to ride your e-scooter safely and legally.😁

Why is visibility so important at night?
In poor lighting conditions, there is a high risk that other road users will not see you in time. Good lighting and reflective clothing will help you reach your destination safely.

A powerful rear light makes you visible from behind, while a bright front light ensures you can see the road ahead clearly and attracts the attention of others. Additional reflectors improve your visibility from different directions, thus reducing the risk of accidents. Invest in high-quality lights and reflectors – not only to comply with regulations, but also to improve your own safety.💨

Lighting regulations for e-scooters in Germany
Here are the most important legal requirements for your e-scooter's lighting:

Mandatory lighting
To ensure you and others are safe on the road, there are clear regulations:

Front and rear lights: Your e-scooter must have a white front light, either permanently installed or removable. It must have a brightness of at least 10 lux (preferably 20 lux) and must not dazzle oncoming traffic – the beam angle must not exceed 3.4° at a distance of 10 meters.
Rear light: Must be red and must not be combined with a brake light.

 

Reflectors & More
Reflectors play a crucial role in your safety at night, as they make you visible from all directions:

Side reflectors: To ensure you're clearly visible from the sides, yellow or white reflectors must be installed on both sides – either as separate reflectors or as reflective strips in the tires or on the frame.

Bell requirement: A bell is mandatory so you can warn other pedestrians and vehicles.

Additional visibility: Reflective strips or LEDs on the tires and frame increase your visibility. A helmet light can also be useful, as it moves with your head and better draws others' attention to you.

Registration & Certification: Every e-scooter must comply with German StVZO regulations and have an ABE (General Operating Permit) from the KBA (Federal Motor Transport Authority).
Anyone who violates these rules risks fines:

Riding without lights: €20
Using unapproved lighting: €70
Illegal modifications: Can lead to confiscation of the vehicle
So always ensure that your e-scooter has approved and functioning lights – this will not only protect you from fines, but also from accidents.

How to find the right lights and reflectors for your e-scooter

LED or halogen? LED lights are brighter, more energy-efficient, and longer-lasting than halogen bulbs. They also put less strain on the battery and provide better visibility.
Retrofit options: If your scooter doesn't have optimal lighting, you can purchase retrofit lights and reflectors. Make sure they comply with the German Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO) and are easy to install.

 

RCB Recommendations for Safe Night Riding
The e-scooters offered by RCB feature high-quality lights and reflectors. The LEDs are powerful and energy-saving – ideal for riding in the city or in the countryside. All products are legally compliant and reliable.

Tips for safe night riding:
Check your lights before every ride – are all lights and reflectors working?
Wear reflective clothing to be even more visible.
Choose routes with the best lighting possible.
Watch out for pedestrians and other road users and drive with foresight.
Care & Maintenance of Your E-Scooter Lights
Regular maintenance ensures that your lights and reflectors always function optimally:

Replace broken or weak bulbs immediately.
Check batteries regularly and charge or replace them in a timely manner.
Keep lights and reflectors clean so they retain their full brightness.

 

Common Mistakes You Should Avoid
Riding without lights: This greatly increases the risk of accidents and can lead to hefty fines.
Incorrectly attaching reflectors: They must be positioned so they are clearly visible from all directions.
Using poor or unapproved lighting: Make sure your lights comply with the German Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO), otherwise you risk fines.
Safe and visible on the road with RCB
Good lighting and reflectors are essential for safe riding at night: High-quality LED lights, regular checks, and correctly positioned reflectors make you more visible and ensure greater road safety.

Whether you're riding through the city or on quieter roads – with RCB's lighting and safety solutions, you're well equipped!

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