Reston Runners (and others) who cycle on the W&OD Trail will want to read this important safety reminder from the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority and the Friends of the W&OD...

Dear Cyclist: "Cyclist Killed on the W&OD Trail" is a recent headline that you have probably seen in our local papers. In fact, there have been two fatal accidents involving cyclists and vehicles on the trail just recently. There have been a total of four in the trail's history.

All of these deaths were preventable. In three of the accidents, the cyclists ran into the vehicles that killed them. In the fourth the vehicle struck the cyclist. What they all had in common was that the cyclists ran posted stop signs.

Running stop signs has become a major safety concern on the W&OD. The police officer investigating the accident at Hamilton Station Road told us that while he was still at the accident scene, and quite visible to trail users, four or five cyclists blew the posted stop signs.

By Virginia law a cyclist operates a vehicle and is required to stop before entering a public highway. Failure to do so could result in being ticketed by police, or worse being hit by a motorist. Traffic has increased drastically in recent years, and there are few if any quiet roads left in Northern Virginia.

Local law enforcement officials will be stepping up enforcement as trail management continues to make the trail as safe as possible. We do this with one goal in mind - keeping you safe on the trail.

Here are some other things to consider before hitting the trail: Always wear a helmet. Travel at safe speeds. It is unwise to wear headphones while using the trail. If you must listen to music then keep the left earpiece out, and the volume at a reasonable level. If you can't hear what is going on around you, then you pose a danger to yourself and other trail users. Remember to give an audible warning when passing, and do so at a safe speed. Beware of accessories that effect your ability to control your bicycle such as aero bars, always have your hands in a position that allows for maximum control of your bicycle given the situation. Aero bars should not be used in groups, or when the trail is crowded.

The W&OD Trail is getting ever increasing use, by all types of users. Stay alert, and stay alive. Please play it safe on the trail, and please do not forget to Stop and Look!

Sincerely, The Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority & The Friends of the Washington and Old Dominion Trail