If you run on the roads, what do you need to do to avoid running accidents?

I just got back from a 6 mile training run and noticed that, despite the recession, the traffic seems to keep increasing. I am aware of two fatal accidents to runners in the past year, caused by vehicles whose drivers evidently did not see the runners until too late. The most dangerous time to run is when the light is just changing (at twilight) to or from dark: this is the time when it is most difficult for a driver to see a runner.

So how to be safe?

Apart from dealing with potholes, animals and criminals, the biggest cause of running accidents is vehicles. To avoid being struck by a vehicle:

  1. Run in daylight

  2. Run on the opposite side of the road to the traffic

  3. Wear light, reflective clothing

  4. Run on the sidewalk if possible

  5. Make sure the driver of the vehicle has seen you.

Run in Daylight

Don't run in the dark or at twilight. This is a counsel of perfection, I know. For some of us, early morning or late evening is our only opportunity to run, so we accept the risk of unexpected potholes or other obstructions and take care to avoid vehicular traffic. Just take extra care.

The biggest danger is at intersections, because drivers making a turn in poor lighting conditions cannot see a runner in the intersection. However reflective our clothing, the driver's lights will only pick up the reflection when they are aimed straight at us, which may be too late for the driver to stop. Be extra careful, then, at intersections, and always assume the driver has not seen you.

If you must run in the dark, carry a flashlight to attract the driver's attention. Don't point it at the driver, but shine it on yourself when you see a vehicle approaching. Wave it around to get the best chance of attracting attention to yourself.

Run on the Opposite Side of the Road to the Traffic

Even if you are on a sidewalk, this is a good idea, because you will see any danger approaching. If it is dark, however, you may prefer to use the sidewalk on the same side as the traffic to avoid being dazzled by oncoming headlights. If there is no sidewalk, though, always run against the traffic.

Wear Light, Reflective Clothing

Light colored clothing is always easier to see, and is especially important on cloudy days or at twilight. Reflective clothing is available from all sporting goods supply places these days. Running shoes always have reflective patches, as do running shorts, shirts and jackets.

The more reflective patches are on your clothing, the easier you will be to to see, but don't ever assume the driver has seen you just because you think you look like a well-lit Christmas tree! It is your responsibility to avoid running accidents.

The best deals I have found on reflective running clothing are here (at my favorite running store.)

Run on the Sidewalk If Possible

Some sidewalks are so broken up that they are more dangerous than the road, but generally the sidewalk, when it exists, will be much safer. If there is a running path, of course, that is even better.

Make Sure the Driver of the Vehicle Has Seen You

We tend to assume that drivers have seen us: bad assumption!

It pays to attract the driver's attention, even in daylight. I always wave at approaching drivers to make sure they have seen me: they will either wave back or swerve to avoid me. Either way, I know they have seen me, even if they were busy texting on their cell phone – the latest hazard we experience.



These are five rules to help you avoid being an accident victim when running on the roads. Observing them will make you safer and allow you to enjoy your running for many more years! And finally, here is a bonus tip that I have found useful:

At an intersection, after you have the driver's attention, point in the direction you intend to run. That way he or she will know which way you are going and be prepared to avoid you if necessary. Sure beats making the driver guess!



Here's to your safe running!