Summer is officially here, and warmer weather calls for more outside activities. More and more Connecticut residents can be found on their bikes getting some exercise in and enjoying the weekends. There’s no better time to talk about four of Connecticut’s safest bike trails to enjoy with your family and loved ones.
Are you doing your part to share the road?
Proper bike safety can help save a life and it should always be observed, by both drivers and bicyclists to avoid bicycle accidents.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said that in 2015, 818 bicyclists died in motor vehicle-related crashes.
Whether you are a pedestrian, cyclist or driver, the attorneys at The Flood Law Firm care about your safety.
For this reason, we’ve compiled a short list of some of Connecticut’s safest trails to take a bike down that offer a scenic alternative to busy roadways.
Safe Bike Trails in Connecticut For You And The Family
The Monroe Housatonic Rail Trail
The Monroe Housatonic Rail Trail – also known as “Pequonock Greenway” – is a shorter five-mile trail that is sure to keep you both safe and entertained.
Paved with crushed stone, this trail is conveniently flat and wide, which is a user-friendly start for new or first-time bike riders. Bicyclists who are less experienced can start at Great Hollow Lake Park and travel to the Newtown town line. This roundtrip usually takes between one to two hours. For those who are feeling a bit adventurous, take note of the Newtown trail, which is established but underdeveloped and would require a mountain bike for better navigating.
Airline State Park Trail
Also paved with crushed stone, the Airline State Park Trail was once the main inland railway between the State of New York and Boston. An impressive 21-miles long, the trail has since been restructured with a recreational focus, and is fit for bike riders of all levels.
Farmington Canal Heritage Trail
The Farmington Canal Heritage Trail has surfaces that include asphalt, cinder, crushed stone, grass and gravel. Stretching 80-miles long, the trail is not only equipped for bike riders, but is a great area for inline skating, fishing, walking and cross country skiing. Wheelchair access is also offered.
Along the way, historic buildings, canal locks and an abundance of other well-known landmarks can be viewed.
Rockland Preserve
The Rockland Preserve offers hills, cliffs, ledges and large wooded areas – something for every biker!
Located in the Northern Madison area, the preserve has trails made specifically for mountain biking, running and non-motorized activities. Volunteers began building the trails in 2012 and have since kept them in great condition. Stretching 15-miles long, this is the perfect destination for a combination of nature and history.
Bike Safety is for Everyone
It’s impossible to control or predict the actions of another pedestrian, cyclist or driver. You can, however, do your own part to promote safer roads and be smart while biking. Whether you choose to ride on busy roadways or the trails suggested above, all bicyclists should consider the following biking safety tips.
- Always wear a helmet
- Check your tires before riding
- Avoid road hazards (i.e. potholes, broke glass, puddles, etc.)
- Don’t ride your bike at night
- Obey traffic laws
- Make sure you can be seen (i.e. use reflectors or flashing lights)
Contact a Personal Injury Attorney Today
If you have been injured in a biking accident, contact The Flood Law Firm today by calling (860) 346-2695 for a no-cost, no-obligation consultation. Be safe on your bike this summer, and do your part to keep our roads and trails a safer place for all.
