Bicycling

after such a thorough and helpful response now. Obviously, I'm kind of a noob. Sometimes you don't know where or how to search for such information. My state's (NJ) website's has the most basic and mundane info on bike law. Nothing available seems to go into any similar detail on helmet lights. Certainly, not the 'whys' you have suggested.

I feel I have a better handle on the issue than previously. Thanks. I'm beginning to sense there is just no optimal way to make a bike as visible as a car using lights because there is a danger of blinding drivers. Reflective accessories and possibly those new bicycle lasers might be the better option.

Even better is to not ride at night, advice I plan follow. All this is just to have the right night time gear if I ever get stuck out riding after sunset.