I hope I am not speaking too soon when I say that it appears spring is here. Although we may still experience a stray snowfall, its presence will be fleeting, and we can begin to focus on finally doing all of those projects and activities we have aspired to over these many months.
Some of these activities may involve long walks or even longer bike rides. While we are fortunate to have many miles of beautiful trails throughout the county, some of our routes may take us along public roadways. The mixing of vehicular traffic with bicyclists and pedestrians brings with it many risks and considerations.
Over the years that I have been running, I have had the opportunity to see firsthand some of the potential risks as a pedestrian and to make sure that I am not posing a risk myself.
If you are a bicyclist or pedestrian, please make sure you are seen. This may mean wearing bright colors or having reflective equipment on you and/or your bike. When traveling by foot, always walk or run against traffic. This will give you better visibility of oncoming vehicles and provide the ability to react if a safe distance is not being maintained. I am still shocked at the number of people I see walking with traffic while wearing headphones. Please use all of your senses when in close proximity to traffic.
When biking, travel with traffic, as you have the same rights and responsibilities as a motor vehicle. Please remember that just because you are on a bike does not mean you can ignore the basic rules of the road. Stopping at stop signs, yielding to traffic, and even using arm signals are still your responsibility when using the roads.
If you are operating a motor vehicle, please give due regard to both pedestrians and bicyclists. When approaching, give them plenty of room by moving over or remaining behind them until it is clear to pass. Be aware of the wind shear your vehicle creates as it passes people and bikes along the road.
We are fortunate here in Kewaunee County to have the ability to separate pedestrians and bicyclists from motor vehicle traffic through the Ahnapee Trail System. This trail runs throughout the county, and whether you are from Algoma, Kewaunee, Luxemburg or Casco, you can access it and, in just a few short steps or pedals, be surrounded by nature. The noise and concerns of the world fade away, and the sights and sounds of nature take over. There is no better remedy for mental stress, anxiety or overall frustration than physical activity.
Let’s all work together to make this a safe and enjoyable spring.
