Walking Safety Tips
Many time-crunched runners find themselves working out at odd hours, before dawn or well into the evening- the same time slots when impaired drivers are often on the road. People may be tired from just waking up, and not as attentive as they should be. You can prevent your own gadgetry from contributing to an accident. Don't assume a driver sees you. In fact, imagine that a driver can't see you, and behave accordingly.
Face traffic. It's easier to see, and react to, oncoming cars. Cars will see you more clearly too. Watch for early birds and night owls. At odd hours be extra careful. Early in the morning and very late at night, people may be overtired and not as attentive.Take the lead in promoting road safety, not road rage. "Always be courteous and follow traffic regulations to encourage a positive image of runners to the non-running public. Acknowledge drivers with a polite wave if they move over to the other side of the road for you. They will feel more inclined to do it again for someone else.
Make room. If traffic gets heavy, or the road narrows, be prepared to move onto the sidewalk or shoulder of the road. Be seen. Wear high-visibility, brightly colored clothing. When out near or after sunset, reflective materials are a must. (If you don't own reflective clothing, a lightweight reflective vest is a great option.) And use a headlamp or handheld light so you can see where you're going, and drivers can see you. The light should have a bright LED (drivers see blinking red as a hazard). Unplug your ears. Avoid using iPods or wearing headphones-you need to be able to hear approaching vehicles. If you do use headphones, run with the volume low and just one ear bud in. Watch the hills. When they crest hills, drivers' vision can suddenly be impaired by factors like sun glare or backdrops.
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