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Running With Or Against Traffic?
(+7 Tips For Road Safety)
It is ideal for novice or seasoned runners to enjoy daily running on a lush green route or a quiet wide route for many miles with empty roads. But, sometimes runners run in traffic. Many precautions must be taken in view to decrease the risk of sudden accidents.
It is recommended to run or walk against traffic so you can see oncoming traffic and react accordingly. Running against traffic enhances safety by improving visibility. Whether you run with or against traffic, always give priority to your safety and abide by local guidelines.
In this blog, we will walk you through the burning question of runners: should you run with or against traffic? And discuss 7 tips for road safety to ensure your road running is not just thrilling but safe. Stay tuned for our expert tips to improve your road running experience.
Running With Or Against Traffic? Choosing the Right Direction
The burning and straightforward question of runners, should I walk with or against traffic? It varies from place to place and depends on the traffic rules of a specific area. Experts recommend runners to run on the side of the road, facing the traffic, and obey the rules of pedestrians walking.
Is it safer to run against traffic? Yes, it is, because you can see upcoming facing traffic. The drivers can see you as well. It also depends on the local regulations and safety considerations. For example, in the USA, no nationwide legislation requires pedestrians (including runners) to move against traffic. But many states, counties, and towns do
.
If we talk about pedestrians, research was conducted on, Does facing traffic improves pedestrian safety? Studying 200 pedestrian accidents in Finland found that injuries and deaths decreased by 77% when pedestrians walked toward traffic.
7 Best Ways to Run Safely on the Road-Safe Strides
Do you want to make your running experience not only enjoyable but secure? If yes then let’s explore “7 Tips to Run Safely on the Road”:
1. Choose Safe Routes
The best tip for safe running against traffic is choosing the safe side of the road. Before starting, plan your path and select those with a sidewalk. Aside from safety, walk or run on roads that are well-lit and well-travelled.
Avoid taking joined paths with cars as minor carelessness can cost your life. If you didn’t find any sidewalk, go with a pedestrian path or shoulder.
Try to maintain eye contact with the drivers while crossing the road. Moreover, if you face any blind curve, change the side as soon as possible.
2. Wear High Visibility Clothes
Imagine wearing dark clothes while running in the dark or early morning. Probably you are not visible to the drivers and you might get hit. To avoid this, it’s better to wear visible clothing in the dark.
Always use bright colors that are noticeable and reflective like neon clothing. Consider wearing reflective accessories like belts, vests, arm bands, or shoes, especially during low-light conditions. For more safety, hang a torch light on your clothing.
Related Article: “Running Belt Vs Armband (Detailed Comparisons)”
3. Run Against Traffic
Try to run facing oncoming cars for a better view of the vehicles. By doing so, you can think of a better strategy to avoid any mishap. It also gives drivers a better sight of what’s coming to the runner and driver.
Sometimes, if you run in the dark or at night times, running against traffic increases visibility. This way, you can enhance your performance and speed up your practice.
Related Article: “9 Benefits Of Running Before Sunrise (+ Tips To Get Started)”
4. Stay Alert of Your Surroundings
Moreover, always play defensive while running with or against traffic. Get out if a car is heading towards you, especially during changing sides and crossings. Pay attention to potential hazards and blind hills.
Sometimes, drivers face distractions and are in a hurry. In such cases ensure to give the way for your safety and the others.
5. Obey Traffic Rules
There are no disadvantages to taking the bike lane or running on the road if you obey rules and follow safety tips. Follow all the traffic signs and rules. Stop where the board says to stop. Cross the roads carefully while facing traffic.
When running in narrow and hilly areas, read all the sign boards and choose the clearest running paths to prevent any danger.
6. Don’t Use Headphones
Those who use phones or wear headphones on the road mostly cause accidents. Listening to fast audio while running will cut off your hearing sense. It distracts the attention and impacts your ability to hear the whistles of approaching vehicles.
Related Article: “Is Running Without Music Beneficial? (7 Interesting Facts)”
So avoid wearing headphones or Bluetooth devices while running with or against traffic.
7. Carry Identification
Inform a close friend or family member about your running plans. Always carry your ID card or any identification, in case of emergency. Moreover, carry a cell phone or any source of communication along with some currency.
Conclusion
This article explores the comprehensive guide for Running with or against traffic and 7 tips for road safety. Safety is the prime concern of every road runner. By following these seven safety tips, you can enhance your running performance and mitigate the risk of accidents or injuries.
It is important to wear track clothes and ideal sneakers to enhance your running. For this, buy the Under Armour Men’s HOVR Turbulence 2 Running Shoes today and speed up your running!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
No, because experts mostly recommend running against the flow of traffic. While facing traffic, you can react quickly to distracted transports and their drivers. Running against traffic will affect your visibility and ability to react to oncoming vehicles.
When you start running, you should run against the traffic. If you run against the automobiles, you can see the other vehicles coming with you on the side.
Avoid running across a busy road to dodge accidents. While crossing a road, avoid running as it increases the risk of falling or sliding. Also, never try to cross at a turn. If you’re riding a bike, obey the traffic signs, and when the road gets clear, change lanes.
Opt for well-lit and populated routes, steering clear of isolated areas to run safely. Enhance visibility during night time runs by wearing reflective materials and sharing the road with your friend for more security. Bring a cell phone for emergencies and avoid wearing headphones to stay alert of your surroundings.
