Running is an inexpensive way to exercise and stay healthy and more and more individuals are embracing its benefits. It’s also a relatively safe activity but it’s still important to be aware of your surroundings, especially if you are running near roadways. Accidents between cars and pedestrians are often serious and following the running safety tips in this article can help you minimize your risk.
1. Make Yourself Visible
If motorists can’t see you, you’ll be more likely to be involved in an accident. It’s important to make yourself visible when you are running.
Here are some ways to do that:
- Avoid running after dark and if you do, use a headlamp and safety vest.
- Wear reflective clothing or add reflective tape.
- Choose bright colors and avoid dark colors.
- Run against traffic to minimize the likelihood of being in a driver’s blind spot.
2. Assume Cars Won’t See You
Even if you do everything possible to make yourself visible, you should still assume that the car won’t see you and act accordingly. Motorists are generally looking out for other cars and may not notice pedestrians as easily. This can be particularly dangerous at intersections. For example, drivers often won’t look both ways before making a right-hand turn. Make eye contact with drivers at intersections to be sure they see you and when in doubt, wait for them to turn before running through the intersection.
3. Be Mindful of the Risks of Headphones
Many runners enjoy listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks. However, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, and headphones minimize your ability to do this. Consider leaving the headphones at home or at least leaving one out or keeping the volume on low. There are also bone-conduction headphones on the market that allow you to still hear your surroundings.
4. Choose Your Route Carefully
Avoid areas with lots of traffic. You should also be wary of areas with limited sidewalk space, as this could force you to run on the road which can be dangerous. Well-lit paths are safer for many reasons, so choose these when possible. If you are running in a new area, do your research on different paths before heading out and consider going to a track or park.
5. Carry Identification and Your Phone
Bring identification with you on your runs. If the worst-case scenario occurs and you are in an accident, this helps first responders to identify you quickly. Having your phone is also important so you can handle any emergencies.
What to Do If You Are in An Accident While Running
If you are involved in an accident while out running, collect information from the driver and any witnesses if you are able to do so safely. Seek treatment for injuries immediately and be sure to follow all recommendations from your doctor. Once you are able to do so safely, get in touch with a Tucson personal injury attorney to help determine whether you are entitled to financial compensation.
Skilled Accident Attorneys in Tucson
At Grabb & Durando, we’ve been helping injured Tucsonans for over two decades. We can handle cases involving pedestrian accidents, including accidents involving runners.
