Nowadays, one of the most common ways to get in your workout for the day is to go jogging. Some prefer the short jog to the store or just around the block in the morning. Some like the crisp night air and still some rather enjoy going for a jog in the snow or the rain. Whatever your preference, it’s a smart thing to do it safely. With the world wide population on the constant rise, so is the number of drivers and hit and run accidents to joggers. Below are a few things to keep in mind while enjoying that run.
Lookout For Cars
How in the world could this be a problem? That question is very valid. This seems like a no brainer, but there are a lot of us that just get in a routine and forget they are there. Cars are bigger than us, faster than us, and can hurt us quite badly if they hit us.
Make sure that you know the surroundings you are jogging in. It’s a wise thing to know the routine of the traffic, the best you can anyway, wherever you choose to run. This way, you generally know what to expect and where to wait your turn or continue jogging on through.
Make Yourself Noticeable
When out jogging, especially at night or in the elements, it can be quite difficult for drivers to see you. If you’re not careful, and jogging too close to the side of the road by chance, you could easily be the victim of a hit-and-run accident. It’s possible the driver may not even be aware of hitting you if the weather is bad enough. Make yourself visible.
Painfully, if needed. Many runners find it humiliating to wear safety gear and many times make the very unsafe assumption that they can dodge an oncoming vehicle. It is much better to be embarrassed by adding some extra gear to your outfit and be seen by those driving than to risk being hit and seriously injured.
Follow The Law
As most mothers will teach you growing up, the law is there to keep you safe. There are always going to be those laws that none of us understand, and some of them can seem like utter nonsense, but they exist so that you can make it to your next jog. First, make sure you are not jaywalking. Most states require that you follow standard traffic laws. Use the crosswalk!
Second, if you are under 18 and enjoy a good night run, make sure to know whether or not your city employs a curfew. Again, it is there for your safety. Third, if there is a sidewalk, use it. In many states, this not only makes sense, it is the law. Don’t run on the road unless you have no other choice. If you do, make sure to run with the traffic.
Jogging is not only fun, but healthy. Make sure to get the most from it by remaining safe.