Italian law requires bicycle safety measures

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Katherine Windish
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  Military and civilian cyclists are reminded to wear reflective gear and comply with other safety requirements in accordance with Aviano Air Base policy and Italian law.

Italian law requires all personnel riding bicycles outside an urban area to wear a reflective vest or belt starting a half hour after sunset, until an hour before sunrise. The vest or belt is also required while riding through tunnels. Personnel who fail to comply with these regulations are subject to payment of fines between 23 to 92 euro.

While Italian law only requires reflective vests or belts during hours or locations of darkness, Aviano Airmen are required to follow Aviano Air Base Community Standards, AAB Instruction 90-502, which states that all personnel riding bicycles must wear a reflective vest at all times, day or night and a properly secured and helmet designed for cycling which has been approved by the American National Standards Institute, Snell Foundation or Department of Transportation. This instruction applies to all U.S. military members and U.S. civilian employees assigned to the base, visiting or performing temporary duty at the 31st Fighter Wing, Aviano AB, including members assigned to tenant units and Reservists.

According to the same instruction, bicycles are required to be equipped with front and rear reflectors and headlights. The headlight must be used from dusk to dawn.

According to the 31st Fighter Wing Safety office, personnel are also reminded to ensure reflective gear is not covered by outer garments to include back packs and not to wear headphones or ear protection while riding on roads. It is also recommended cyclists always ride with a buddy.

"With the shorter winter days come longer hours of darkness, making it even more critical that bicycle safety standards be followed," said Master Sgt. Scharalene Carroll, 31st FW ground safety manager. "It is mandatory for personnel to follow Air Force regulations and Italian law, but Airmen and dependents alike should always practice safe cycling habits for their own well being."