Multi-use trails are physically separated from motor vehicle traffic, designed for use by joggers, walkers, bicyclists, horseback riders, and skaters. These trails offer safety and protection from motor vehicles and other hazards that pedestrians face on regular roads. As cities and towns become more congested, people are opting more often to use these trails for their outdoor activities.
It is important to keep trail etiquette in mind when using multi-use trails, as their increased popularity has led to congestion on some trails. This congestion can be hazardous to pedestrians if they do not follow the rules of the trail.
The biggest rule of using a multi-use trail is to travel in a courteous and predictable manner. If a pedestrian is courteous and behaving in a sensible manner, then other trail users know what to expect from them. This predictability leads to less collisions and accidents. Try to use common sense and don’t do anything that you wouldn’t want someone else to do.
If you are with a group of friends, blocking the trail can cause accidents and congestion. Generally, it is acceptable to use half the trail at one time. This leaves people room to pass and gives them enough room to maneuver around you if necessary. Walking in pairs and trading friends from time to time will still allow you all to enjoy each other’s company.
Always try to stay to the right of the trail; this allows people to pass you easily. It also gives people coming in the opposite direction ample room to pass you without risk of a collision.
Trail etiquette dictates that people should pass others on the left. If you see oncoming traffic from the opposite direction, make sure to yield to them. Always use hand signals and be sure your lane is clear before you attempt to pass someone. People can be generally unpredictable, which is why it is important to leave ample room when passing someone to guarantee that you avoid an accident.
Many people like to give an audible warning before passing someone in order to get people’s attention. When you have someone’s attention, they are less likely to do something that can cause an accident.
Never stop in the middle of a trail! Try to veer off to the right and give other users plenty of room to use the trail. If you follow these simple rules of trail etiquette, then your experience is sure to be delightful and free from predictable injuries.
Featured Image from A n v e s h/Unsplash
