Bicycle Safety and Etiquette for the BLT Rails to Trails by Allan Young

It’s the time of year again when many are using our trail in one form or another. So let’s take a moment to talk about Bicycle safety and etiquette. It’s important as cyclist we remember that other users particularly parents with small children and seniors and also walkers with headphones may not be aware we are approaching from behind, therefore it is important that we make them aware we are passing by signaling either with a bell or a friendly hello. It is not sufficient or safe to just pass by to the left or right because an unknowing person may step to one side or another without notice. Also when approaching dog walkers it is particularly important to let them know as much for your safety as theirs. A startled dog although friendly may react in a not so friendly way. It’s important that we as cyclists respect the speed limit as well 20kph is easily obtained by some, although the trail may look clear you never know when someone will step onto the trail unannounced. It may be someone picking flowers or just taking a rest on the side, or one of our carefree not careless children playing in their back yard bordering the trail.

During rain and afterwards our trail surface becomes rather soft if only briefly. Keep this in mind when using the trail if you are leaving ruts maybe you should plan your ride for another day when conditions permit. So get out there enjoy be safe and courteous and encourage others to do so with you.

Follow these rules

• -Bicycles must be equipped with horn or bell and helmets must be worn
• - Those moving the slowest have the RIGHT OF WAY
• - Cyclists must use bell and or voice when overtaking walkers - 10 meters
• - Reduce speed as conditions warrant, especially when children and animals are   present
• - When approaching other trail users, cyclist must be in single file.
• - Night driving will require a light up front and red on rear.
• - Speed limit 20km
  

Remember our mission statement

To promote and encourage physical activity and harmonious relations among all user groups in the communities we serve for the benefit of this and future generations.