It was a chilly morning in early December, with snow predicted for later in the day. After savoring a delicious cup of coffee and microwaving some pancakes for my kids, I laced up my sneakers and set out for a run.
Reflecting on this now, I can’t help but cringe. Before the pandemic, I hardly exercised. A weekly stroll around the block or a quick 15-minute session on the elliptical was a significant achievement, and I would have rewarded myself with a break from working out for two weeks. However, like countless others, when lockdown began, I sought a way to escape the house—thus, I started running.
Over the last several months, I’ve made a concerted effort to be a responsible runner. Equipped with all-weather sneakers, a blinking visibility light, a sports mask, and protective gear for varying temperatures, I’ve even trained myself to run in the rain, illustrating my desperate need for some daily “me time.”
On that particular morning, I was adhering to all the necessary safety measures—running solely on sidewalks, stopping at stop signs, and checking for vehicles at every crossing. I reside in a suburban area near Pittsburgh, where I encounter approximately 20 intersections over a two-mile run. While it can be stressful constantly staying alert for pedestrians and traffic, it is essential for my safety.
As fate would have it, I and a pickup truck arrived at a four-way stop simultaneously. The driver gestured for me to cross, and I took my chance. Unfortunately, he was focused on his phone and misjudged my direction, accelerating straight toward me. I instinctively slapped his hood, prompting him to slam on the brakes.
Fortunately, I wasn’t injured, and with my heart racing, I waved and continued my run. I felt grateful to be unharmed, and I’m sure he felt relieved to avoid the consequences of distracted driving.
As a runner, I face situations like this almost daily. If I’m honest, this encounter was far from the worst I’ve experienced. I’ve witnessed numerous drivers ignore well-marked stop signs and speed through neighborhoods filled with children. People of all ages honk and swerve at runners without cause, and it’s not uncommon to see drivers engrossed in their phones, applying makeup, or even reading the newspaper while navigating the roads.
Some days, it feels like drivers have lost all sense of awareness, forgetting that a vehicle can be lethal. Their actions behind the wheel have serious consequences. My life, and the lives of many others, are often in their hands. Believe it or not, I am no match for a moving car.
This surge in outdoor activity isn’t just impacting me; many others have also taken to the streets. Elderly individuals, young couples with puppies, parents with toddlers, and teenagers on bikes are all out enjoying the fresh air. While it’s incredible to see, it seems many drivers are unaccustomed to this change.
Often, I feel like I’m playing a game of Frogger, dodging vehicles just to make it home safely. I frequently find myself wondering, “Will I come back in one piece?” I look at my husband reading and my kids devouring their gooey mini pancakes, and I ponder whether my exercise routine could put me in harm’s way.
I realize my concerns may sound exaggerated, but consider this: when was the last time you blew through a stop sign or checked a text while driving on a familiar road? It’s not typically intentional, yet many of us do it unconsciously.
I urge you to be mindful of those around you while driving, especially in areas where people walk their kids or run with dogs. Follow the rules of the road and give them space. Acknowledge their vulnerability; the responsibility lies with you.
Imagine if it were your mother or daughter trying to enjoy a moment of peace outdoors. Now, picture yourself distracted by your phone, speeding, and missing a stop sign. Could you guarantee you wouldn’t hit them? It’s a risk I refuse to take. So please, for everyone’s sake, pay attention while you drive.
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Summary:
This article emphasizes the importance of being aware of runners and pedestrians while driving, especially during the pandemic when more people are outdoor exercising. It shares a personal experience of a near-miss with a distracted driver and urges drivers to prioritize safety and mindfulness to prevent accidents.
Keyphrase: pedestrian safety while driving
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