Running Safety: How to Reduce Your Chances of an Accident
With Spring underway and warm weather rapidly approaching, runners are filling the streets and sidewalks. Most runners think that the odds are very low that they will be involved in a pedestrian-automobile accident; however, according to the NHTSA, more than 4,000 pedestrians-automobile accidents occur annually. Before you go out for a run, make sure you protect yourself by following these running safety tips.
Tips on running safely:
Avoid music distractions: Although it is enjoyable to use headphones and listen to music while running, it can be very distracting. When the music is too loud or the runner is using noise-cancellation headphones it can completely prohibit the runner from hearing any vehicular noises. Prevent this my turning the volume of the music to a level that allows you to hear both the music and the noises around you or run with only one headphone in.
Pick your location wisely: Running on the side of the road is dangerous. To prevent the road running dangers, run on sidewalks or running trails whenever possible. You can even use websites and apps like [TrailLink] to find a running trail close to you!
Face the right direction: When running on the road, run facing the traffic whenever possible. This allows you to see the cars coming your way and avoid any dangers presented by reckless drivers.
Always abide by traffic signals: Although it can be tempting, never cross the road outside of a crosswalk or against the traffic signal. In fact, if you are involved in a pedestrian-vehicle accident while running outside of a crosswalk or against a traffic signal you may, under the doctrine of contributory negligence, be completely barred from any recovery even if the driver was at fault
Unfortunately, some pedestrian-automobile accidents are unavoidable. If you have been involved in a pedestrian-automobile accident or have any further questions contact an attorney at Stiles Law.
