GMD Sidewalk/Multi-Use Path Etiquette

[Tom Saunders]

The Collier County regulations seem over the top to me; it seems like most issues are with the greater-than 750w bikes (basically an electric motor cycle) and maybe Class 2 (throttles)).  A speed limit (maybe hard to enforce) and only pedal assist on the sidewalk/MUP would help.

Meanwhile, here are some sidewalk/MUP etiquette recommendations based on those from the Friends of Legacy Trail, fined tuned for LBK.

Attached is the signage at the south end of the sidewalk/MUP. There are about 5 of them along GMD.

tom

 All:  Be Alert.  Be Courteous.  Be Predictable.

Pedestrians:

·         Walk on the far right side of the sidewalk/MUP and walk no more than two abreast.

·         Dogs leashed should be kept to a minimum. Pets should be on your right side, between you and the gravel/grass side of the path. 

·         Don’t block the sidewalk/MUP.  Step off the sidewalk/MUP for chatting, etc.

·         Acknowledge the warning from Bicyclist's with a simple wave, nod, etc.

·         Avoid sound cancelling head phones/buds

 

Bicyclists, including eBikes, Scooters, etc.:

·         Bicyclists must always yield to pedestrians.

·         Provide an audible warning (e.g., ring your bicycle bell or announce, “on your left”. etc. before passing other cyclists or pedestrians).

·         Pass on the left.

·         Obey all traffic laws

·         Speed limit is 10 mph?

·         Keep your speed low in crowded areas. Remain in control and be prepared to stop if the unexpected happens.

·         Stop at all road intersections, especially at crosswalks, and look in both directions before entering the intersection.  Make eye contact with drivers before passing in front of them.  Be vigilant at driveway entrances.

·         Form a single file line when passing or approaching other sidewalk/MUP users.

·         Wear a helmet for protection, and carry some form of identification, emergency contact information, and a cell phone.  State law requires bicyclist under the age of 16 to wear a helmet.

·        State law requires that a bicycle ridden at night must have a lamp on the front that emits a white light visible from at least 500 feet away and a red reflector on the back.