If you are thinking of moving your run from the treadmills at the gym to the roads of San Mateo, then you will have to take certain precautions. Running on the road or sidewalk has its benefits, such as changing scenery and the exhilarating fresh air. However, you will have to contend with hazards that are not present in the gym. For example, you will have to maneuver around other runners and walkers and perhaps dodge the occasional loose dog or other wildlife. Another danger you will encounter by moving your run outside is traffic.
In general, people operating cars and trucks are not looking for pedestrians. They tend to be on the lookout for what other drivers are doing. This means that you should always make your safety a priority when you go for a run or walk and the following safety tips can help you with just that.
Leave a note
Always be sure to let someone know where you are going when you head out for a walk or run. Be sure to include the route you plan to take and how long you expect to be out. By doing this, you will provide your loved ones with the information they need to find you in case there is an accident.
Carry identification
Whether you run with your state ID or have some other form of identification on you, be sure you have something on you that emergency personnel can use to call your family. If you prefer to run light, consider investing in an identification bracelet that includes your name and the names and phone numbers of your emergency contacts.
Assume you are invisible
Always assume that you are invisible to cars and trucks and make your decisions based on that. Even if you feel like you have enough reflective gear and flashing lights on your person to resemble a Christmas tree, you should still act as if drivers do not see you.
Run against traffic
When running or walking on the street, you should always face oncoming traffic. While this will increase the chances of vehicles seeing you, it will also put you in a position to see and react quickly to potentially dangerous cars coming your way.
While the above tips can decrease your chances of becoming a victim of an accident, sometimes it is not possible to avoid a mishap. If you or a loved one has suffered an injury due to a reckless driver, you might be able to file a claim for compensation for your medical expenses and any other damages that resulted from the accident.