Spring has sprung and everyone is emerging from their cocoons. We have all been cooped up more than usual this winter and we are eager to get outside. This is good news! However, It seems as though many runners and cyclists have forgotten the basic rules of safety and courtesy. As a runner and a cyclist, I believe I can be objective here and offer a few reminders to everyone. I’ve written about this in the past but it seems as though a refresher is necessary. It is possible for runners and cyclists to co-exist if we all follow a few basic rules. Here’s a refresher.
Top Tips for Runners and Cyclists to co-exist and share the trails
Runners, cyclists, walkers, and dog walkers yes we can all get along if we all follow a few basic rules of the road and simple etiquette. On National Park Week and Earth Day, it seems the perfect time to revisit a few rules of the road and common courtesy.
Rules for Runners
-Stay to the right of the trail.
-Do not run more than 2 abreast so that cyclists have space to pass you.
-Be aware of your surroundings. For your own safety, make sure you can hear cyclists passing you if you wear headphones.
-If you do hear a cyclist approaching, move farther to the right to allow the cyclists to easily pass.
-If you run with your dogs, keep them on your right and out of the way of passing cyclists.
-Thank cyclists for alerting you of their passing with a hand wave or simple thanks. Positive reinforcement is always good.
Tips For Cyclists
-Yell out to alert runners that you are approaching so that they have adequate time to move to the right. A simple “on your left” or “bike passing” is much appreciated.
-When riding with other cyclists, stay single file if pedestrians are in sight.
-Slow down while passing runners and pedestrians. Yield to pedestrians.
-Be aware of and obey speed restrictions on multi-use trails.
-As a cyclist, you are obligated to obey traffic laws. This includes fully stopping at stop signs.
With a little attention and courtesy from both runners and cyclists, we can all safely and happily co-exist out on the trails. Happy miles and enjoy the great outdoors this spring and summer.
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Thanks for helping to make the Runners’ Roundup a huge success by visiting all of the hosts: Laura, Me, Debbie, Jen, Lisa
Great tips. .Yes, it gets so dangerous out there with the mix of runners, walkers, cyclists, dogs, kids, etc. Problems arise when people get stubborn or careless. There are races on the lakefront path in Chicago and inevitably there will be walkers or cyclists who refuse to move over.
I literally biked right into a 5K walk on the bike trail the other day. I kept yelling at the walkers to move over and they just ignored me. I was not happy and it really is dangerous at times
When people don’t stay to the right it drives me nuts! I consistently have to tell people to stay to their right since they’ll be walking in the opposite direction on their left. It’s just like how you drive on the right!
Yes exactly but for some reason that logic does not always translate!
Thanks for the reminders. When I visit my sister in Providence, RI, there is an awesome path there that I often run on (part of the Providence marathon is run on this path). There are signs along the path describing where runners should run, where cyclists should cycle, and how to pass. I appreciate these directions a lot. They help keep everyone safe.
That’s great that they have signs and I am sure that is very helpful. Now to just get people to abide by them!
After being out on my bike last Sunday, this is a great reminder. I had to dodge runners and walkers. The key is to get out there early before the paths get clogged.
Well yes there’s always a plus in getting out early. Glad to see you back on your bike
Last weekend, my race was held on the lakefront path in Chicago. The city has done a great job separating runners and walkers from cyclists, but there are still sections where they share the paths. My biggest complaint about cyclists–both there and on my local path–is that they don’t call out when they are coming up behind me. What if I decided to move over? Yikes.
I agree they really need to call out for their own safety and for yours. I have had a couple of close calls both on my bike and on foot
Seriously, people who don’t control their dogs — or at least try to — make me insane. Like the couple who let their dog go halfway on our lawn last night.
And I’m a dog lover!
Oh, and even two people can hog a path. I’m constantly having to weave around couples walking & it bugs me.
I have almost been knocked over by dogs whose owners could not control them. If you cannot control your dog, you should not be on a path with other people on it. Drives me crazy!
Everyone can always use a good reminder about how to properly use the trails! It all comes down to courtesy and respect! Thanks for sharing your tips!
Yes I definitely agree!
These are great tips! I run with my dog all the time and I’m always so conscious of other people out on the roads. People who don’t have control of their dogs really annoy me. Or people that don’t leash their dogs….I’m sorry but not everyone wants your dog to come up and greet them…even if they’re friendly!
Yes I totally agree! I’ve had dogs lunge at me and it’s really scary.
Word. I almost got hit by a cyclist yesterday on my run and I could not have been any more to the right AND it was a slow day on the trail. Good reminders!
It can be really crazy out there! We all have to pay attention a little more
Honestly…I cannot stand when cyclists ride side by side and block the whole road. It is not safe and causes drivers to get angry and antsy and can lead to just a bad accident. I also cannot stand when I am running and people come so close to me, when they have plenty of room. PAY attention drivers and be courteous. RANT OVER…LOL!
As a cyclist and a runner, I think both groups could be more courteous to each other
Great tips!! We really try to focus on staying to the right and being aware of what’s around you with our little ones, we live in a very bike friendly area and I want them to understand that you need to be careful and aware to be safe.
It is definitely great to teach them the rules of the road at a young age
I like to run on a paved trail in Hattiesburg every now and then. I can’t hear the bikers until they are really close and they always yell “ON YOUR LEFT!” It scares me to death! I always stay to the right. I don’t bike often but they mean business! I get so tickled when they yell. Such a different vibe than runners around here!
Yes a different vibe but it’s great that they alert you to their presence
ohhhh this is so important! I don’t ride much, but whenever I get passed by a bike while on foot without a warning, the surprise literally throws me off balance every time. Luckily I haven’t fallen or fallen into a biker, but that’s not to say that it won’t happen.
Thank you for touching on this topic in such a productive way! I hear so many people rightfully complain but don’t do anything to improve the situation.
We all could work together to be more courteous to each other out there for sure
All great tips! I am always amazed at the lack of common sense people can have. I did a race one time, and there was a dad with a kid in each hand, near the front of the start line. Really???
yes I often do wonder how people can have no clue sometimes!
These are great tips! I go on walks with my kiddos and my oldest rides her strider bike. We drill it in to her to stay to the right (she’s not even 3 yet), but I constantly have my head on a swivel looking for bikes approaching.
That’s great that you are teaching them at a young age how to be safe out on the trails.
Definitely an important topic! Great post so that everyone can share!
Thanks so much
I can’t tell you how many cyclists I see breaking the traffic laws. It drives me crazy when they think they can just run red lights and not pay attention.
It’s really dangerous and there are a lot of bike accidents. I think they can be avoided if everyone pays a little more attention to what they are doing
Great reminders that I don’t think a lot of people know. Bikers do need to follow rules too!
Yes cyclists and runners need to be aware and respectful of each other
I prefer that cyclists have bells so it’s super clear that I’m being passed. Some people just ride by me and don’t bother saying anything. Although a good holler works too the bell just sounds nicer lol. Don’t let kids hold the leash! I was running and some kid just let their dog come to me. If I were on a bike, that would have been a major accident!
Oh boy the kids and the dogs together! Oh my!
I think you’ve just about covered em’ all! I’m hoping the weather gets better soon so I can go biking again!
Hope you are able to get out there again soon
These are great tips! I don’t really run on trails but I can see how this could be an issue. Good reminders for all!
Thanks Lisa!
YES, YES, YES! Why can’t we all get along?! When I run on our main roads, I make sure I get my butt to the grass if I see a cyclist approaching. It’s just common sense!
It is but not everyone has it!
I get annoyed when cyclists don’t announce that they’re coming up behind you. Rude and dangerous.
Another thing that bothers me, which has nothing to do with safety but still annoys me, is when the other people out there don’t return a friendly hello! Seriously people, get over yourself. Even if you’re training so hard you can’t possibly speak, you certainly can nod your head or toss a wave. We’re all in this together! (Whew! I feel better now 🙂 )
Oh I hear you on that one too! I don’t understand it at all
I am a city runner, so it really bothers me when cyclists are on the sidewalk. We even have bike lanes!!!
Yes that can be very dangerous as well!
These are great reminders! It’s so important to remember these so that everyone is safe.
Yes! Now we need to get everyone on board
Nice tips! My husband rides his bike to work sometimes, and it’s crazy how much people can not pay attention to cyclists/follow the rules for bike lanes. One time my husband was riding in the bike lane right diagonally behind a car, and the car turned right and literally HIT HIM. Thankfully he was fine, but I think people need to be more alert of their surroundings!
Yes it is scary for bikers sometimes! I try to be so careful to look out for them while driving
What you wrote about navigating little ones in bike trail traffic is so true in my life! “Hey kids, go to the left side of the road!” Speaking to my 5-year-old and almost 3-year-old, I get some “Say what???” looks from them. My oldest is starting to get it… but the poor little guy… work in progress. Great safety suggestions!
Thanks-the little kids really scare me out there sometimes
These are great tips Deborah! It can certainly be dangerous with everyone out on the trails all of the sudden, moving along with spring enthusiasm! The ear buds are always my biggest concern. Not hearing something coming. I also really get annoyed when a runner or I have seen a lot of bikers are going along looking at the cell phone and run into someone or something (like a telephone poll, yes I saw it happen) Keep your eyes up people.
I would be way too scared to be on my phone while biking! I am sure there are plenty of idiots who do just that! Crazy
Love, love, love this. As a driver runner and cyclist I see too many ppl not following the road rules and pointing fingers at other parties
It can get kind of wacky out there for sure!
I’ve been running alone a lot recently, and when I do, I run on the far right side of the trail. Most bikers think this means they can pass me even if other bikers are coming toward them. Last week a woman did just that, and came so close when she passed that I had to just off the trail onto the grass. AND, she hadn’t called out that she was passing.
Have I ever told you about my friend who had her Achilles severed by a bike pedal when a biker clipped her as he rode past? It was awful, and when he got up (he wrecked as a result) and saw what he’d done, he got on his bike and rode off. Another biker saw her down and since he was parked nearby, he was able to bring his car onto the trail and get her to the emergency room.
Oh wow! That is such a scary story!
These are great tips, Deborah! It all comes down to courtesy, respect and knowing the rules.
Here in Cape Town on the Promenade, it can get quite chaotic.
Although it is very broad, runners always have to dodge bikes, prams, mini-scooters and dogs.
But at least people are always very polite and apologetic, so I can’t even be annoyed, haha.
It can get a little crazy out there but if everyone does their part we can all coexist
I don’t encounter many cyclist when I’m running but its always tricky running with the stroller when I try to pass multiple people walking who have dogs. I am not sure what the “rules” should be but I just end up hopping onto the grass to run around them because I feel like it would take too long to wait for everyone to move over.
I can see how passing with a stroller can be challenging. I would probably announce yourself “stroller passing” and hope they would give you some room
All great tips.
As a runner I know how important it is to say On your left when passing on a bike.
Announcing yourself is always helpful and courteous!
These all are great reminders. I agree, we all need to share the road and we’ll get along just fine 😉
yes now to get everyone else to do it!
It’s really a matter of common courtesy. I get annoyed when a cyclist riding on the sidewalk doesn’t alert me when they’re going to pass. It scares me if I don’t know they’re coming.
well, they should not be riding on the sidewalk! Yes it is unnerving for sure
I really like these tips. I run on a trail that has a lot of bikers and I am always very grateful when they alert me that they are coming. It’s so important to respectfully share the road/trail so that everyone can have a safe and positive experience!
Exactly! It really can work well and safely if everyone follows basic rules of the road
One of my biggest pet peeves is a local hill that’s quite long & steep. There’s a sign for the cyclists to walk their bikes. Of course in my experience, no biker does. And I’ve almost been taken out by one barreling down on more than one occasion!
Runners are often just as guilty, especially the taking over the whole path thing.
Thanks for the reminder, Deborah!
Yes, I can see how that is annoying but I can also imagine how both runners and cyclists might not follow the rules.
This is great, especially now that you see more people out on the trails since the pandemic who may not know these rules of thumb. I’m thankful I haven’t had any close calls lately!
Yes there are so many people out there which is great if they follow the basic rules of the road
I wish people would respect rules like these, working together isn’t that hard and both can enjoy the trail
Great reminders! People are pretty good around here, but then i’m not usually in crowded areas. Cyclists definitely need to remember to call out- you never know when a runner is going to veer a little to the left. And I always like to give a little “thank you for not running me over” wave as they pass me!
yes a thank you is always appreciated!
I absolutely agree both need to be respectful of each other. I’ve had plenty of interactions with bikes that have been positive but some not so positive ones. One biker was making obscene comments at me while I was running once and in the past I’ve also been cut off and almost run over by a biker. It definitely takes both parties paying attention.
Yes, it does take both parties to make it work!
Great reminders and it would be so much nicer to hit the trails, if every followed these basic rules of etiquette!
Yes it would be so much better if we all were a little more polite out there
These are great tips, I know here we have many separate areas just for cyclist because of so many accidents that have occured.
yes, those are super helpful where they exist
Great post and reminder that we can get along, Deborah! As I was scrolling down to comment, I saw my comment from when you first published this and I found it interesting that I was focused solely as a runner at that time because I was just starting to ride again and was rarely on the trail. Now that I’m cycling more, I’d remind runners and walkers to listen for bikers. Sometimes even though I call out, I don’t think they hear me. Also, little kids freak me out when I’m on my bike because they’re so unpredictable.
We can definitely have different perspectives as runners and cyclists. Little kids totally freak me out. I call out to them and say”passing stay where you are” because they get confused about right and left sometimes. It’s been packed out there lately!
Great points! As I was reading I found the main theme of showing consideration applies across so many other areas too, driving, working, shopping, etc. etc. Just being aware of what’s around us, who is there, and what we can do to show consideration and reduce frustration for all!
yes I totally agree these can apply to many areas of life
These are great tips to share! I wish people would follow them! I try to stay to the right at all times when I’m on a trail cause I know how frustrating it is.
Yes, I wish everyone would follow them as well
Cycling is soooo dangerous down here. I wish that it was easier, but it’s fairly terrifying. There are plenty of great sidewalks for runners, but if I want to ride, I have to take my bike and travel to a rail trail. Blah.
This was always a point of contention when I lived in Seattle and ran on the multiuse trails. Cyclists would often speed by without any signaling or much clearance.
It can be super sketchy out there at times for sure