You love jogging, but there is no guaranteed way to stay safe if you run on or near the road. You always have risks from the cars and trucks around you. An accident can have catastrophic consequences for a pedestrian.
That said, there are steps you can take to make yourself safer and reduce the odds of an accident. This is something you should do every time that you go out for a run.
5 steps runners should take for greater safety
Below are seven things you should keep in mind as you run this year. Exercise keeps you healthy overall, but these tips can keep you safe at the same time:
- Always run so that you are facing traffic. You never want cars to be overtaking you from behind. Bikes ride with traffic, but runners and walkers move against it.
- Never run with music or headphones. You should only use these devices if you’re running on a closed trail, jogging path or somewhere else that you know is safe.
- If you run at night, aim to be extra visible. Wear bright clothes, reflectors, LED lights and anything else that helps you stand out in the dim light.
- Run only on familiar roads. The more you know about your surroundings, the easier it is to avoid problems (or spot them heading your way).
- Don’t let your pace put you in danger. It’s better to slow down and wait at the crosswalk (even if that ruins your pace) than to try to dart across between cars.
Accidents do sometimes still happen, no matter how much you try to avoid them. If you suffer injuries because a negligent or distracted driver hit you, you may be able to seek compensation for your medical bills and other losses. An attorney can advocate for you against the insurance company and help protect your interests.
