BICYCLE & PEDESTRIAN TRAIL SAFETY 101

May is National Bike Safety Month. Safe cycling not only applies to riding on the roads but it also apples to our trails. It is both cyclists and pedestrians to be good stewards of our trails. Here are a few helpful tips on doing so.

IT'S BETTER TO BE SEEN THAN NOTICED

The single most important safety aspect is VISIBILITY. Install front and rear lights on your bike. Wear bright, reflective gear, or add reflective tape to your bike.

Pedestrians and cyclists look like shadows in the evening or at night....remember, if you can’t see them, they probably can't see you. This is not only important for bike path etiquette but for riding in general in low light conditions.

YIELD FOR SAFETY!

Bikes are big machines on paths. They’re faster, more efficient, therefore they can also be dangerous. Always take the safe option and yield to pedestrians.

ANNOUNCE YOURSELF!

A common practice when approaching pedestrians from behind is to is call out 'On Your Left or “Passing On Your Left' to warn pedestrians of their presence. Most pedestrians actually move left into the path of the cyclist! Just a slide to the right to ensure safety for one another is adequate. It might also a good idea to install a bike bell on your handlebar which can announce your passing.

BE AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS!

Being aware means seeing and hearing what's going on around you. Wearing headphones or earbuds is a great way to pass time while walking or riding. But it can also deafen you to oncoming cyclists attempting to alert you, or other dangers that may be on the trail. Ditch the headphones and ear buds and be safe!

BE PREPARED TO STOP!

Trails are mute-use paths for pedestrians and bicyclists alike! People can be unpredictable; dogs and kids especially. Individuals can easily get involved in a conversation or wrapped up in their own thoughts, or otherwise distracted and come to an abrupt halt in front of you, even if they hear you coming. Slow to a walking pace around traffic and keep your hands near your brakes.

These are just a few helpful tips to help keep the trails fun and safe for everyone.