For many people who run for exercise, the easiest option is to run on the sidewalk or the side of the road. It is simple and effective, and they do not need to pay for a gym membership.
The downside, however, is that this means they are often running near traffic. That puts them at high risk of being involved in a pedestrian accident. Below are some safety tips that can help.
1. Avoid distractions
To start with, always focus on the traffic around you. Avoid any distractions, like looking at your cellphone or listening to music.
2. Face oncoming traffic
While cyclists are supposed to ride with traffic, those who are walking or running are supposed to face it. Make sure that you are on the correct side of the road and that you can see the vehicles coming toward you.
3. Always use crosswalks
It can be tempting just to dart across the road if you think you see a break in traffic and you do not want to stop and wait for a crosswalk. But it is always best to obey traffic laws and rules, and to cross at the appropriate places. If you are crossing in front of a vehicle, try to make eye contact with the driver.
4. Increase your visibility
If you are running in the middle of the day, it can help to wear bright clothing that stands out against the road. If you are running in low-light conditions, such as early in the morning or in the evening, you may also want to wear a headlamp, an LED vest or clothing that contains reflective materials.
Seeking compensation after an accident
Unfortunately, even if you take all of the correct steps to run safely, you could still be injured by a negligent driver. If so, be sure you know how to seek financial compensation for medical bills, lost wages and more.