What Cyclists Need To Know On The Gainesville-Hawthorne Trail
Bill Allen | February 6, 2025 | Bicycle Accident Injury Lawyer Near Gainesville Florida \ Uncategorized
Florida has fascinating nature preserves and wild creatures, and bicyclists can get a taste of both by traveling the Gainesville-Hawthorne State Trail. This paved bike and pedestrian trail connects Gainesville’s Boulware Springs Park with the city of Hawthorne. Along the way, users of the trail will pass through several conservation areas and nature preserves.
The ten-foot-wide paved pathways make the trail accessible for riders of various skill levels. Nonetheless, taking simple precautions before hitting the trail can prevent you from experiencing unpleasant surprises along your ride.
Before setting out to conquer the Gainesville-Hawthorne Trail, there are several important things to consider. This information can help you plan a safer, more enjoyable trip along the trail.
1. Plan Your Trip
If you are looking to explore the trail, keep in mind that it is 16 miles long and has four access points. Carry plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and bring items you may need in an emergency. Familiarize yourself with your route and the facilities available along the way. This will help you keep track of your location and be prepared in case of a bicycle accident or other emergency.
2. The Trail Closes At Sundown
Remember that the Gainesville-Hawthorne Trail closes at sundown. Ensure you have reached your destination or are back at your vehicle by this time. Bicycling on surface streets after dark is dangerous and increases your risk of a bicycle accident.
3. All Riders Should Wear a Helmet, and Younger Riders Must Do So
All of Florida’s laws pertaining to bicyclists still apply when you are riding the trail. Riders who are under 16 years old must wear a properly fitted and federally approved bicycle helmet. This requirement applies to bicyclists and children who are riding as a passenger on another’s bike.
While cyclists 16 years old and older are not legally required to wear a helmet, it is still a good idea to do so. A bicycle crash can lead to concussions and other head injuries, but a helmet can reduce the chances of this happening. Those who wear helmets are also at a lower risk of suffering a fatal injury.
4. Yield The Right Of Way To Motor Vehicles
The right-of-way rules also apply on the pathway, especially when the trail intersects with roads carrying motor vehicle traffic. When the trail crosses a street meant for cars and trucks, bicyclists must yield the right of way to such traffic. Motor vehicles using these streets and roads have the right of way.
5. Expect To Encounter Other Traffic On The Trail
Remember that the Gainesville-Hawthorne Trail is a multi-use trail open to a variety of non-motorized traffic. You can expect to encounter other bicyclists, pedestrians, and people on skates or rollerblades while using the trail. There is also an equestrian path for horses and their riders that runs adjacent to the paved trail. Stay alert and give others space.
Bicycling Safely On The Gainesville-Hawthorne Trail Requires Planning Ahead
Even though the Gainesville-Hawthorne Trail is made to be used by bicyclists and others, there are still risks for those who travel it. Other bicyclists, cross streets carrying motor vehicle traffic, and the nature of the trail itself all present risks and potential dangers.
The key to overcoming these hazards is to plan ahead for how to meet them. Familiarizing yourself with the trail and wearing a helmet are two simple steps that can make a difference in your experience.
Contact Our Gainesville Bicycle Accident Law Firm at Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers in North Central Florida
If you need legal assistance, contact the Gainesville bicycle accident lawyers at Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers at your nearest location to schedule a free consultation today, we’re open 24 hours daily.
We have three convenient locations in Marion County and Alachua County, North Central Florida:
Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers – Gainesville Office
2550 SW 76th St #150
Gainesville, FL 32608
(877) 255-3652
Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers – Downtown Gainesville
621 W University Ave
Gainesville, FL 32601
(866) 928-6292
Allen Law Accident & Injury Lawyers – Ocala Office
112 S Pine Ave
Ocala, FL 34471
(352) 351-3258
