With the clocks being turned back one hour this weekend, Sunday 27th October, and daylight hours growing shorter, Wales By Bike is reminding road users to take extra care and remain vigilant when out and about in the dark.

The arrival of autumn often brings worsening weather and reduced visibility, increasing the risk of collisions, particularly involving vulnerable road users such as children, older people, pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists.

Being on two wheels means that we are more vulnerable than other road users and reduced visibility at night means we need our wits about us even more during the months of reduced daylight.

The clocks going back and shorter days brings more riding in the dark, so we need to check that all lights are clean and working correctly and wear kit with reflective features to make ourselves as visible as possible.

Another consequence of shorter days is that the sun is much lower in the sky and glare can be blinding at times. Watch out when riding on tree lined routes - as leaves are shed the strobe-effect patterns of light and shade created, can be very distracting. Leaves on the road can hide potholes and manhole covers, and you can come across wet slippery leaves and debris unexpectedly in dark, shaded areas.

Take extra care when motorcycling at this time of year and be prepared for the extra hazards it brings.