The Union County Trail Authority is preparing for the upcoming May Bicycle Safety Month by raising awareness of trail user safety. The Authority will be deploying fun bicycle safety road decals along the trail and sharing safety reminders on its Facebook page regarding public safety for trail users and drivers.
All trail users should stop, listen, and look both ways to make sure it is safe to proceed in the crosswalk where the rail trail intersects roadways. It has been reported that some trail users are darting across the road in front of approaching vehicles without even looking. We also understand there are drivers speeding and not slowing down for trail users as well. Vehicle operators should slow down and anticipate trail users at the designated crossings which are marked with advanced warning signs and painted crosswalks.
In Pennsylvania, bicycles must observe and adhere to all stop signs and other traffic control devices just like an automobile. This is because bicycles are considered vehicles by state law. Bicycles are not afforded the same treatment as pedestrians in a crosswalk unless the cyclist dismounts and walks the bike through the crosswalk.
Children under the age of 12 are required by law to wear a helmet when riding a bicycle. However, everyone is encouraged to wear a helmet; helmets reduce the risk of head injury by 85%. A properly fitting helmet should sit right above the eyebrows and be tightly buckled so it does not slip when riding.
Finally, when on the trail please be courteous to other trail users. If pulling off to the side, make sure no one is near you, announce if you are passing, and give other users enough space. It is recommended that people pass on the left.
For any updates on special events on the trail or to report any problems you see, please visit the website at https://unioncountytrails.org/, or you can contact the Trail Manager at 570-524-3878. You can also follow the Buffalo Valley Rail Trail on Facebook.
John Del Vecchio
Email
570.524.3878