It was a brisk December morning, with snow predicted later in the day. After savoring a warm cup of coffee and sharing some microwaved pancakes with my kids, I laced up my sneakers for a run. Admittedly, just saying that sends a shiver down my spine—prior to the pandemic, I was hardly active. A leisurely stroll around the block or a brief session on my elliptical felt like a significant achievement, usually earning myself a two-week break from any further exercise.
However, like countless others during quarantine, I needed an escape and took to running. Over the months, I’ve made a genuine effort to be a safe runner. I’ve invested in all-weather sneakers, a blinking light for visibility, a sports mask, and gear suitable for any temperature. I’ve even reached a point where I’ll run in the rain, showcasing just how much I crave my daily dose of solitude.
On that particular morning, I was adhering to all safety measures—running on sidewalks, stopping at stop signs, and checking my surroundings at every intersection. Residing in a suburban area outside of Pittsburgh, my two-mile route requires crossing approximately 20 intersections. While it can feel overwhelming to be constantly on guard against pedestrians and vehicles, safety is paramount.
As I approached a four-way stop, a pickup truck and I arrived simultaneously. The driver gestured for me to cross, and I took a step forward. Unbeknownst to me, he was distracted by his phone and misjudged my direction. He accelerated, directly colliding with me. I instinctively slammed my hand on his hood, prompting him to slam on the brakes. Thankfully, I was unharmed, and with my heart racing, I waved and continued my run, relieved to be okay. I can only imagine he felt fortunate to have avoided a more serious outcome.
As a runner, experiences like this are all too common. In truth, this incident was far from the worst I’ve encountered. I’ve seen countless drivers ignore stop signs, speed through neighborhoods filled with children, and swerve at runners without a second thought. Daily, I observe individuals engrossed in their phones, applying makeup, or even reading the newspaper while driving.
It often feels as if some drivers have forgotten that a car can be lethal. Their actions while handling such a powerful machine have serious consequences, and my life, along with others, is in their hands. After all, I am no match for a vehicle speeding by.
The pandemic has motivated many to step outside, from seniors to families with young children and teenagers on bikes. While it’s heartening to see more people outdoors, it has also revealed a disconnect with some drivers.
Some days, I feel like I’m playing a game of Frogger, darting between potential hazards. I often leave my house wondering, “Will I return safely?” I glance at my husband reading and my kids enjoying their sweet pancakes, contemplating whether my exercise choice could actually pose a threat to my safety.
I understand my concerns may seem exaggerated, but consider this: when was the last time you rolled through a stop sign or glanced at your phone while driving? It’s not something we intend to do, yet it happens more often than we realize.
So, I urge you to reflect on this. Be mindful of pedestrians, runners, and families in your vicinity when navigating areas where people are out and about. Follow traffic laws and give those on foot ample space. Recognize their vulnerability and understand that the responsibility lies with you behind the wheel.
Imagine if it were your mother or daughter seeking a moment of fresh air and peace. Picture yourself momentarily distracted by your phone, speeding, and suddenly failing to notice a stop sign. Would you be able to guarantee their safety? It’s a risk I would never take. So please, for the sake of everyone on the road, stay alert while driving.
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- Tips for safe running on the road
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In summary, being a responsible driver requires awareness and respect for those on foot. As more individuals venture outdoors, the responsibility falls on drivers to ensure the safety of all. A moment of distraction can lead to irreversible consequences.
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