Maryland-National Capital Park Police Offers Safety Tips for Bike Safety Month

[Howard Hartman]

Community and Media Services
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE	May 17, 2012

Maryland-National Capital Park Police
Offers Safety Tips for Bike Safety Month

The Maryland-National Capital Park Police, Montgomery County Division, is amplifying its message of safety to bicycle riders and trail users alike with May being National Bicycle Safety Month. As more and more riders are taking to trails in Montgomery Parks, accidents have increased, particularly along the Capital Crescent Trail. Riders are also cautioned to be extra careful on Bike to Work Day on May 18th when more riders take to the trails to commute to work.

“Bike Month is a great occasion for Montgomery County residents to strap on a helmet, hop on a bike, and see just how fun and welcoming our bike paths have become,” said Assistant Chief Antonio DeVaul. "Park trails also have become popular commuter routes. The key is to ensure that biking is safe for everyone.”

Bicycles cause more childhood injuries than any other consumer product except automobiles. More adults are choosing bicycles, both for commuting to work and for exercise. Here are some rules of the trail to keep in mind while riding in the parks:

• Yield to pedestrians and equestrians along the trail.
• Alert other trail users before passing.
• Do not exceed the posted speed limit.
• Yield to vehicular traffic at intersecting roadways.
• Always wear a bicycle helmet when riding or being carried on a bicycle, including a bicycle with training wheels, on a public street, right-of-way, or bicycle path.

Please do your part to keep Montgomery County trails safe for everyone. When passing, remember to look and listen for approaching traffic; warn others with a loud bell or whistle, or call out “passing on left”; and pass on the left. If unable to pass safely, slow down or stop until safe.

Officer Brew