The city of Tempe has several multi-use paths and bridges. Most of the paths are paved and ideal for walking and biking and are ADA accessible. Bikers and pedestrians can enjoy landscaping and even art by local artists. Many paths are lighted and have benches or resting areas. The paths are funded in part by federal transportation grants and are ideal not only for leisure and recreation but also for commuting via bicycle. Here are a few of the paths throughout the city:
Crosscut Canal Path: This is a 2.5-mile path that weaves through several local parks and provides the only route between North Tempe, Tempe Town Lake, downtown and the Valley Metro Transit System. The path was completed in 2011 and includes interesting bridges and downtown views.
El Paso Gas Line Path: This path was completed in 2015 and runs from Kiwanis Park to Rural Road to catch the El Paso Gas Line. It features public art and taller bushes and trees to offer some shade to bikers. The path has a yellow line down the center to allow safe passing zones for bikers and pedestrians.
Kyrene Canal Path: Completed in 2002, this path is located in south Tempe and connects the Western Canal to south of Warner Road. It is lighted and paved.
Rio Salado Paths: There are paths on the north bank and south bank around Tempe Town Lake. There are 7.5 miles of continuous paths that feature great views of the lake, paved and lighted sections, and other amenities.
Stay Safe: Bicycle Rules of the Road
Most bicyclists take public roadways in order to reach the bike paths. It’s important to remember the rules to keep your ride safe.
Ride in the same direction as the rest of traffic. That means staying on the right side of the road.
You can turn left like an automobile driver, in the left lane, or you can walk your bike across the crosswalk like a pedestrian.
Make sure your intention is clear to drivers. Use hand signals and don’t cut in front of cars.
Always wear a helmet that fits well and won’t fall down over your eyes or fall off in an accident.
Obey all traffic signals and stay three feet from cars (they also have to give you three feet of space if you are riding on the shoulder.)
Use a light at night.
If you come to train tracks, don’t stop on them. Watch for trains and quickly cross.
Wear bright-colored clothing to make yourself more visible to motorists.
What to Do If You’re Involved in a Bicycle Accident
You might follow all the safety rules and still get hurt. Motorists may not see you or they might not be abiding by the laws. For example, many motorists may not know to leave a three-foot space between their cars and the bicyclists they are passing. Sometimes, sideswipe accidents happen. In other cases, cars turn in front of bicyclists or they rear-end them because they aren’t paying attention. These accidents can result in serious injuries and even death.
If you or a loved one is involved in a bike accident, it’s important to seek medical attention and then seek the help of qualified personal injury attorneys like The Husband and Wife Team at Breyer Law Offices, P.C. The team is skilled at representing the victims of bicycle accidents and knows how to help you. They offer a complimentary consultation for your case and will guide you through the steps so that you don’t have to battle with the insurance companies or negligent parties on your own.