Bike Trail Safety

GRANVILLE, OHIO (August 12, 2022) Riding your bike on the T.J. Evans bike trail is a fun way to be active and enjoy the outdoors. But having fun means keeping safety in mind too. Even experienced riders have accidents sometimes, and hopefully, these tips will keep you thinking about your and others’ safety so that everyone can have a good time on the bike trail.

First, it is important to protect what is quite possibly the most important part of your body–your head! Wearing a helmet is the best way to protect yourself when riding your bike. A study by the National Library of Medicine found that wearing a bike helmet while riding reduced head injuries by 48%. Helmets can be stylish too and are relatively inexpensive.

Some sections of the bike trail intersect with roads, so when you approach these crossings, stop fully and look both ways. If there are no cars coming, cross the road safely, staying aware of your surroundings. Use caution at driveway crossings as well.

Wearing bright-colored clothing and reflective gear will help you be visible to cars and other bike trail users. This is especially important if you are biking in low-light conditions. Having a light on your bike will give you extra visibility as well. Periodically, look ahead into the distance because there may be downed trees or other hazards in upcoming shaded areas.

When passing pedestrians or other bikes on the bike trail, let them know you are coming up behind them to pass by calling out, “on your left!” Etiquette is to “ride right, pass left.”

Park District vehicles and contractors regularly drive on the trails to take care of maintenance, observation, and repair issues. All park vehicles are clearly marked and will have flashers and safety lights turned on. Be vigilant and make sure the operators of these vehicles see you, and please do not pass a park or contractor vehicle without acknowledgement from the operator. They may be using heavy equipment like mowers or blades that can be dangerous, but if they know you are there, they can make sure you are able to pass safely. Have fun, and be safe!

Questions? Contact us at 740.587.2535 or by email at: Info@LickingParkDistrict.com

Licking Park District’s Vision Statement

It is the Vision of the Licking Park District to provide parks, paths, and trails of the highest quality to the residents of Licking County. Our goal is to maintain and improve existing facilities while pursuing opportunities for expansion. We provide passive recreational opportunities for the health, wellness, and education of our residents using resources that include public and private collaborations.

The Licking Park District manages over 1,600 acres of parkland on 12 sites and manages over 46 miles of paved multi-use trails across Licking County. The Licking Park District office, located at Infirmary Mound Park, is easily accessed from Rt. 37. Visit the website www.lickingparkdistrict.com to see all the programs and opportunities your Licking Park District offers or contact us at 740.587.2535 or by email at: Info@LickingParkDistrict.com