Running and walking are popular ways to get some exercise, stay
fit, and to lose weight. Having been an avid runner I'm hyper-aware of staying
safe where pedestrians and motor vehicles or bicycles intersect. That's
why a recent local incident was so hard to read.
A runner on a rural road was found some hours after a hit and
run accident. Still alive, he suffered life threatening injuries.
As I read the report I was immediately upset that the driver didn't stop;
that they didn't try to make an anonymous call to emergency services; and then
with the injured runner.
You see, the runner was clipped by the passenger side view
mirror which means he was running WITH traffic instead of AGAINST traffic.
Because the police recovered the mirror itself they determined it was
from a GMC truck or large SUV.
Here are a few tips for everyone on foot, running or
walking:
·
Use sidewalks or
hike/bike paths whenever possible
·
Always face the traffic and stay as far left as possible
·
Wear lighter colored
or reflective clothing and even carry a headlamp or flashlight if it's dark
City settings have other guidelines, too:
·
Cross streets at
corners
·
Stop at the edge of a
parked car and if traffic is present, make eye contact with the driver before
you step into the roadway
·
Obey traffic signals,
again making eye contact with drivers is a good idea before stepping into the
street
·
NEVER let young
children (10 and younger) cross alone
·
Older adults may need
to allow more time to cross a busy street, too
When a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle, the pedestrians are
killed or injured in over 80% of those incidents. Go out and get your exercise, but please take a few precautions to stay safe.
image courtesy of Stuart Miles/freedigitalphotos.net
