Pedestrian accidents are incredibly common, and it is often the pedestrians who suffer severe injuries. Those who are going to be around traffic frequently, such as joggers who may be running for exercise, need to know how to stay safe.
There is nothing that guarantees you won’t be injured in an accident caused by a negligent driver. But it can still help to consider what you can do to lower your risks on a consistent basis.
When running on the roadside
Running on a treadmill or at a gym may be safest, but if you need to run on the roadside, here are some tips to use:
- Run with a friend. Two people are easier for drivers to see, and one person can call emergency services if there’s an accident.
- Use the sidewalk when it’s available. If there is no sidewalk and you have to run on the shoulder, make sure that you are facing traffic.
- Try to run during the day rather than at dusk, at dawn or at night.
- If you do have to run in the dark, consider wearing a headlamp, an LED light vest or bright and reflective clothing.
- Do not wear headphones while you run, as they can distract you from the noises of traffic around you.
- Follow all traffic safety laws, such as crossing the road at a crosswalk. Obey traffic signals.
- Assume that drivers cannot see you. If you’re crossing in front of a car, even if you have the right of way, make eye contact with the driver so that you know they actually spotted you.
These tips can certainly help, as can a general focus on staying safe. But you could still be injured by a negligent driver, so be sure you know what legal options you have.