Brampton personal injury lawyers know from experience that with summer weather approaching, more and more people are out on the roads. Many of these include runners and whether they’re in it for the sheer pleasure of enjoying the warm weather sport, or they’re prepping for a big event or marathon, runners remain vulnerable on our roads.

Getting fit and not getting hit is a huge priority for runners. Running early in the morning, at dusk or late at night put runners at risk of being hit by motor-vehicles. Drivers have a responsibility to ensure the safety of all those whom they share the road with, but accidents can and do happen.

Most of these mishaps are preventable and they’re caused by someone’s fault or negligence. If you or a dear one has been hit by a vehicle while you were out running, contact a car accident lawyer with experience in handling similar cases. You may be entitled to compensation.

Runners have the same rights and responsibilities as pedestrians. They’re just as vulnerable on the street but they also need to follow traffic rules and ensure that they don’t indulge in risky behavior.

Cities like Toronto have more than 600 km of trails and a vast park system that covers nearly 13% of the urban land area. However, this doesn’t prevent runners and joggers from using busy urban areas and streets. Ownership of the pavements and maintaining proper running etiquette are some of the concerns that all road users have regarding joggers and runners.

Runners and joggers are completely exposed to impact forces when collisions happen. Staying safe is a huge priority for them, because an accident can impose enormous physical, financial and emotional burdens on them and their families. Runners have to ensure that they use the roads and pavements safely and responsibly.

Tips for Safe Running:

Be visible: Wear bright, reflective clothing and shoes especially if you enjoy early morning or late evening runs.

Against Traffic: It’s wiser to run opposite to oncoming traffic. This way you can avoid being hit from behind and also gauge what’s coming at you.

Stay On The Shoulder: Keeping to the shoulder and designated areas for pedestrians ensures that you don’t come in the way of motor-vehicles.

Know The Area: Running on unexplored trails is great but a familiar route is much safer.

Pride Goes Before A Fall: Swallow your ego and give way to traffic even if you have right of way.

Valuables/Jewelry: Remember you’re under observation. Muggers may attack you just for the stuff you’re carrying.

Let People Know: your route and timings. Stay in touch with friends and family so they are alerted immediately in case of mishaps.

Stalking: Sexual predators are an ever-present risk. If you feel you’re being followed, calmly jog into a public place or residence and call the police.

Carry bus-change or cab-fare: You may sprain an ankle/tear a ligament.

Check your laces.

Avoid distractions like cell-phones/music/radio/texting.

Running in groups is great but you need to respect pavement etiquette.