Brush up on your 'Trail Etiquette'

Commuters. Long distance riders. Casual riders. Walkers. Joggers. Runners. Rollerbladers. Stroller pushers. Dog walkers. What do all of these have in common? They're all trail users.

We all have the right to the trail. When we hop on the trail, what happens to our famous Hoosier Hospitality? Here are some great reminders when using any trail or multi-use path:

Use Safe Speeds – Those long straightaways are good for racing, right? Not really … The Monon Greenway and Hagan Burke Trail have speed limits in place (15 - 20 mph depending on location); remember to be cognizant of those around you. What is safe on one trail might not be safe on another. If there’s no speed limit in place, use your best judgment based on speed limits above.

Pass Left, Keep Right - When you're approaching someone on the trail, be sure to make your presence known. A friendly "on your left" or quick ring of your bike bell is the best way to say “excuse me!” Standing Still?

Stand Aside - You're popular, we know! When you see your friends out on the trails and you're chatting it up, please step to the side of the trail for your safety and others.

Mind Your Pets - We love Fido too, but please clean up whatever their behinds leave behind! We also don’t want Fido to get frightened, frighten others or get caught in a bicycle wheel, so consider using a shorter leash when on the trail. The trail rule is a 6-foot leash or shorter.

Be Alert – None of us like unexpected surprises so stay alert when on the trails. Knowing when to yield is an important part of being alert. Generally speaking, wheels yield to heels. It’s not advised to wear headphones while on the trail, but if you need your tunes, please keep the volume low or place in one ear only so you can hear other trail users.

Know and Follow the Rules – Watch for changing speed limits in differing areas. Let’s keep our trails beautiful by respecting property and protecting wildlife.

INTERSECTION SAFETY

All greenway users yield to street traffic at intersections. The vehicular traffic on the streets is not required to stop pursuant to state law. When crossing a street, pedestrians should come to a complete stop and yield to all vehicles on the cross streets. Look both ways, wait until there is a sufficient amount of time to cross the street safely and cross with caution. While drivers are not required to stop, we do suggest approaching with caution; once a pedestrian is in a crosswalk, the pedestrian has the right-of-way and vehicles must stop.

By following all of these guidelines, we can all safely enjoy the beauty and health benefits of all our area trails.