HUNTSVILLE, ALA. (WAAY)- There are certain things drivers and cyclists can do to make sure our roads are safe. We spoke with Trailhead store owner, Tommy Reagh, who gave us some tips on how to use the road.
"Move far enough to the inside of the lane so that it makes it easier for people to pass you but not so close to the side to where people will try and come close to you."
The City of Huntsville is implementing ways to keep our roads safe and educate the community on road safety with bicycles. In an effort to make our community bike friendly they created a program called See and Be Seen. There are also greenways around the area however not all of them connect and cannot be used as an alternative commute for bicyclists. One of the city's biggest projects is the Aldridge Creek greenway. Once complete it could be a thing cyclist can look forward to.
"We hope to be able to connect Jones Valley to the area." said Transportation planner James E. Moore.
The Trailhead store owner had a close encounter of his own when he was riding his bike home from work on a sunny Saturday afternoon. A distracted driver hit the back of his back and sent him landing on some near by grass. "Lost a little bit of skin and tore up some clothes. A little damage to my bike but I was very very lucky." said Reagh.
experts say bicyclists should remember to drive with traffic and be aware of their surroundings. If it gets dark out wear bright colored clothing as well as carry lights on the bikes.
