As a driver and a road runner myself I thought it would be important to share some basic rules when it comes to running on the roads. I have seen more than enough runners on my daily commute that seem to not know the basic rules to follow. Unfortunately one of the most common rules I see broken is which side of the road to run (or walk) on. This is extremely dangerous for both the runner and the driver… so please if you are gonna run the roads know the standard practices and be safe! Here are some common rules of the road you should follow if you are out hitting the macadam.
- Assume the driver doesn’t see you. Just because you think they made eye contact with you doesn’t mean that they saw you.
- Run against traffic, this goes for when you are on the sidewalk too! This gives you the best chance to see and react to incoming drivers.
- When crossing the road look both ways and wait for the drivers to wave you on and give them a wave back to acknowledge them.
- Use hand signals to let others know which way you are turning.
- Alert pedestrians if you are passing them, a simple “On your left” for example is perfect.
- Don’t litter, if you can’t find a trash can take it home with you.
- During group runs go single file when a car is trying to pass you.
- If you run with headphones, make sure you can still hear what is going on around you. Run with just one ear bud in at a time.
- Run with your ID and a cellphone with emergency contact information taped to it in case of an emergency.
- Wear Hi-Vis and Reflective clothing in low light conditions.
- Allow at least 3 feet between you and passing vehicles.
- Be aware of your surrounding and ready to jump onto the sidewalk or shoulder of the road.
- Keep an eye out for private driveways, sometimes it can be more difficult for them to see you.
- Respect the drivers right to the road.
- Be extra alert on blind curves.
- Try to stick to roads with wide shoulders.
- Never run more than two abreast when running with a group.
- Respect private property, don’t go trekking through yards or relieving yourself in someone's bushes.
- Anything can happen so let someone know when you are going for a run.
- Don’t run down the middle of the road no matter how little traffic there may be.
Are you following the rules of the road? Next time you are going out for a run think about these practices. It is extremely important to follow these rules for your own safety. Neither the drivers going by or you want to see anyone injured so be smart and stick to the rules of the road.
Have any other rules you can think of? Please share them in the comments, cheers!