Get Some F**king Lights

^ that last point and Jame's last point.

and this is a great idea:

...But the fine is waived if you buy some lights and show the receipt at the police station. That seems a lot more sensible, as it actually fixes the problem.

Or maybe they should then do some sort of group buy, and then offer the lights free if you've been fined....possibly a bit of a waste of admin.

But I've had times when I've not had my bag or taken a different bike without lights. So I'd be bummed if I got done. In fairness I've only ever really done this in summer when I didn't expect to be out after dark.

Plus as a driver it is annoying. Back in Spring this year I almost hit a cyclist as I was turning onto a side road - dark clothes, no lights, me a bit tired. Not a nice feeling.