I like to run. I like to run basically every day in all types of weather and on all types of terrain, because I really enjoy being healthy and, let’s face it, a little sick in the head. I’ve run in the pouring rain; donned two pairs of pants, a hat, and three shirts to survive in sub-zero weather, and I’ve even broken out my mother’s old crossing-guard vest when I have to run at night. Living in a small town with very few nature trails, however, means that I often have to run on the road, which to be honest can be a little scary, especially when it’s dark out. Fortunately, I have been lucky enough to have never been hit by an automobile, but I have had a couple of close shaves and a few unpleasant encounters with drivers. Here are a few things that drivers can do so that cars and runners can coexist peacefully and safely.
Good running etiquette is to run against traffic, meaning that I run on the left side of the road, and this is for my own safety, because I am able to see cars that are coming towards me instead of having them sneak up behind me. As such, I would greatly appreciate if, when you are passing me, you gave me at least four feet of space between the side of your car and myself. Especially on roads that don’t have a particularly wide shoulder, or any shoulder at all, extra space greatly lessens the risk of an accident. Also, if it’s raining or if it recently rained, this means you won’t drive through a puddle and splash me, because that is not fun.
I will to stop at stop signs and traffic signs if you promise to let me cross the street. It can be very frustrating to be in the middle of a run at a pace that I have worked up to only to have to stop for a few minutes because no one will let me cross the street. Running across a busy road that doesn’t have a crosswalk is also pretty scary, especially at a busy intersection, and sometimes I only have a few seconds to decide whether or not to sprint across the street, much like that little squirrel you see at the side of the road.
Please do not honk at me. Not only does it scare the crap out of me, but it makes me very uncomfortable. In the summer it gets really hot, and even though I try to run in the morning, sometimes I have to run during the middle of the day in 85-degree weather, so I choose to run in only a sports bra and tiny running shorts. That does not give you the right to honk at me or roll down your window and call out to me. Even if you do know me, I beg you to not honk at me, because when I’m in my running zone, I won’t recognize you and will probably think you’re a creep (also I’m pretty self-conscious of how I look when I’m all sweaty and gross and out of breath).
Lastly, if you promise to look out for me, I promise to make sure I am visible. I often wear bright, flashy clothing while I’m running, especially at night, because not only do I like having cute running gear, but I also know the importance of being visible for drivers. Wearing dark clothing greatly increases the odds of getting hit by a car, and I don’t want to make things more difficult for drivers who already have to watch out for things like deer and other cars.
Please, just make the roads safe for everyone who is using them.
