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When riding at night, what lights are mandatory on bicycles, and what are the required distances for visibility?

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Final answer:

Bicycles are required to have a white front light visible from 500 feet and a red rear light or reflector visible from at least 600 to 1,000 feet. It's important to check local laws for specific requirements. Crossing in front of a car depends on the distance and speed of the car, with safety being the top priority.

Step-by-step explanation:

When riding at night, bicycle lights are essential for safety and are often mandated by law. It is generally required for bicycles to have a white front light and a red rear light or reflector. The front light should make the bicycle visible from a distance of at least 500 feet, and the rear light should be visible from a distance of at least 600 feet to 1,000 feet. In addition, many jurisdictions require reflectors on the pedals and wheels. The exact requirements can vary by location, so it's critical to check local laws.

Regarding the distance at which you can safely cross in front of an oncoming car, this depends on several factors including the speed of the car and your own judgment of the situation. For example, if you observe a car that is 28 meters away, equivalent to about 8 car-lengths, whether it is safe to cross will depend on the car's speed. You must ensure there is enough time to safely traverse the road before the car reaches your crossing point.

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