Two of the best ways to enjoy all that beautiful Colorado has to offer is through biking or walking. These are also hobbies that can help you get into shape or stay fit. Both of these modes of transportation are dangerous, though, as it can be difficult for motorists to see you. That’s why the Colorado Bicycle and Pedestrian Program was created.
One important part of this program is the Colorado Safe Routes to Schools (SRTS). This part of the program is run by the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT). The SRTS was created to provide children with multiple safe routes to school should they decide to ride their bike or walk to and from their school.
Any school in Colorado can decide on their own to start a safe route to school with the help of CDOT. Funding will be available for the most part to help the school plan the safe route and create maps for the students, parents and staff to use. These programs are typically created for students in grades K through 8.
These safe routes are more important than ever due to the volume of vehicles on the roads today. Close to 90 percent of all children are driven to school today either by a car or a bus. In 1969, close to half of all children between the ages of five and 18 walked to school.
As you can imagine, bicycling and walking are two very healthy habits to have in life, but they are also dangerous when doing so near vehicles. Make sure you choose a safe route of travel in Fort Collins so as to avoid a car versus bicycle accident. If you are injured, an experienced attorney can provide information on your next steps.