Commuting by bicycle or walking helps reduce pollution and is a great way to keep fit and increase stamina. When bicycling, always carry identification and medical insurance information, especially when alone. Before deciding to commute by bicycle or on foot, consider the length of the trip, how much motor vehicle traffic will be traveling on the roads at the same time, and the terrain. Choose a route or streets that have less traffic or better accommodations for bicyclists — such as bike lanes, wider lanes, or shareduse paths — to make the ride or walk more pleasant. Carry a map or plan an alternate route for when there is need for a detour.
Shared use paths are often used for recreation. Bicycle commuters and fast-moving road bicyclists are not required to use these paths unless a sign is posted prohibiting them from the road. If they do, use care when passing slower bicyclists, walkers, and other users.
Tips for commuting by bicycle
- Dress safely – wear a helmet, wear bright colored clothing, and secure loose pant legs and shoe laces. Commuting can be done without special “bicycling” clothing.
- Carry gear in a manner to not obstruct vision or bike control.
- Ride defensively – anticipate the actions of other road users and watch for road hazards.
- Pass with care – turning vehicles may not see you.
- Maximize visibility at twilight, at night, and in rainy conditions – wear reflective clothing, and use lights, and apply reflective tape to your bicycle.
- Walk bicycles when in traffic situations beyond cycling abilities. Walk to the right of the bike for safety.
- Use caution around buses and large trucks. Watch for buses pulling to and from curbs and passengers getting on and off. Stay out of blind spots and give large vehicles plenty of room to maneuver.
- Park the bicycle so you do not block sidewalks, handicap and building accesses, or emergency drives.
- Lock your bicycle – secure both wheels and the frame to a stationary object using a sturdy lock.
Bicycling across railroad tracks
Cross railroad tracks carefully. Watch for uneven pavement and grooves that could catch a wheel. Stay in control of the bicycle. Rise up from the bicycle seat and bend arms and legs so the body acts like a shock absorber.
If the tracks cross the road at a sharp angle, signal and scan for approaching traffic, then angle the bicycle to cross perpendicular to the tracks.
Tips for commuting on foot
Walking, instead of driving a motor vehicle, improves the environment and personal health, and reduces traffic congestion. Consider walking, especially when the distance is less than a mile.
Wear comfortable shoes. Use a backpack or messenger bag so that your arms can swing free, allowing you to maintain better balance and increase the length of your stride.
If just beginning, start slowly and don’t test your limits. You will want to feel energized and exhilarated, not exhausted, when you arrive at your destination.
International Walk to School Day
Walk a child to school or participate in a Walk to School Day event in October. Walking benefits the physical and emotional health of children when they get more exercise, notice their environment, and socialize with parents and other children.
www.walkbiketoschool.org
www.chrichmond.org/services/safe-kids
Bike and walk for long-term benefits!
The long-term benefits of bicycling and walking include:
- Lower blood pressure
- Lower cholesterol
- Strengthened heart and cardiovascular system
- Increased bone density
- Increased hormone production that counteracts the effects of aging
- Increased endorphins that decrease stress, depression, and anxiety while increasing relaxation
- Loss or maintenance of weight
- Strengthened nervous system and reflexes
- Increased flexibility
- Reduced diabetes complications