Regional Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Trails Master Plan - sacog

Master Plan Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Trails 41
Education
Education programs are vital to an efficient
and safe bicycling and pedestrian-supportive
environment. Bicyclists, pedestrians, and
motorists need to understand how to travel
safely and be cognizant of other roadway users.
To maximize the use of
multipurpose trails, there must be
a way to cross barriers dividing
trail segments. People traveling
between residential areas and Galt
Community Park or the River Oaks
Elementary School can activate a
flashing beacon to alert oncoming
traffic that people are crossing
the road.
Pedestrian Education
Pedestrian education programs should emphasize safety guidelines such as the value of crossing
at intersections or crosswalks, and walking on the proper side of the street as defined in the
California Vehicle Code; “When sidewalks are not available pedestrians are required to walk
on the left-hand edge of the road facing traffic.” This definition also applies to the safe usages
of multi-use (class I) trails. Programs designed for children can increase their awareness of
motor vehicles and teach appropriate behavior in the vicinity of traffic. Elementary and high
school students should develop and learn a “Suggested Route to School Plan,” as well as gain
instruction on pedestrian safety. 12
Bicyclist Education
Bicyclist education should focus on preventing crashes and injuries. Programs should outline
important safety techniques when bicycling; for example, riding with traffic, equipping bicycles
with lights and reflectors, and wearing bright reflective clothing for increased visibility at night.
Instruction about the California Vehicle Code is also important, emphasizing that bicyclists
have the same duties and responsibilities, and must follow the same rules as drivers of cars such
as bicycling the same direction as traffic. Likewise the programs should highlight the California
law regarding youth bicycle helmet requirements. The League of American Bicyclists “Smart
Cycling” program is an example of a bicyclist education program centered on safety.
Knowing the rules of the road (and how
they apply to bicyclists) is an important
step for anyone wanting to make the
shift from riding recreationally to
riding for transportation purposes.
The Tour de Lincoln started in 2002 and
is an annual recreational ride between
the cities of Lincoln and Auburn that
encourages learning more about
biking in Lincoln and surrounding
areas. Educational materials about the
Tour de Lincoln, includes information
on bicycle safety and sharing the
road with motor vehicles, a map of
bike facilities in Lincoln, and options
for finding bike commuting buddies.
More information is available at
http://www.tourdelincoln.org
12 Pedestrian Safety Task Force, March 1999