It was a chilly morning in early December, with snow expected later in the day. Knowing I needed some fresh air, I brewed a delightful cup of coffee and prepared some microwaved pancakes for my kids before lacing up my running shoes and heading out.
Just saying that makes me cringe. Before the pandemic, I hardly exercised. A weekly stroll or a 15-minute session on the elliptical felt like an accomplishment, earning my body a two-week break from any further exercise. However, like countless others around the world, the quarantine pushed me to find a solitary escape, and I began to run.
Over the months, I’ve committed to being a responsible runner. Equipped with all-weather sneakers, a blinking visibility light, a sports mask, and gear for varying temperatures, I’ve reached a point where I’ll run in the rain, showcasing my determination for daily me-time.
On that particular morning, I followed all safety protocols—running on sidewalks, stopping at stop signs, and checking for traffic at every intersection. Living in a suburban area near Pittsburgh means that during a two-mile run, I navigate about 20 intersections. While it can be nerve-wracking to stay alert among pedestrians and vehicles, being cautious is essential for my safety.
When I reached a four-way stop, a pickup truck and I arrived simultaneously. The driver gestured for me to cross, and I stepped into the intersection. Unfortunately, he was distracted by his phone and misjudged my direction, accelerating right into me. I slammed my hand on his hood instinctively, prompting him to brake suddenly.
Fortunately, I wasn’t injured, but my heart raced as I waved and continued running. I felt fortunate to be unharmed, and I suspected he felt relieved to avoid having harmed someone due to his distracted driving.
As a runner, I encounter situations like this almost daily. In all honesty, this incident was far from the worst I’ve witnessed. I’ve seen countless drivers ignore well-placed stop signs and speed through neighborhoods brimming with children. It’s alarming how many people honk and swerve at runners like me when there’s no justification for their actions. Daily, I observe drivers engrossed in their phones, applying makeup, or even reading newspapers while navigating the streets of my community.
Some days, it feels like drivers have lost their minds, forgetting that a vehicle can seriously injure a person. Their actions while controlling such a powerful machine have real consequences. My life, along with others, hangs in the balance. Believe it or not, I’m no match for a moving car.
And I’m not alone; this pandemic has brought many people outdoors. Elderly individuals, young couples with puppies, parents with toddlers, and teenagers on bikes are all enjoying the fresh air. While it’s heartening to see, many drivers aren’t accustomed to this influx of pedestrians.
I often feel like I’m playing a game of Frogger, dodging obstacles as I make my way home. Some days, I wonder, “Will I return safely?” Watching my husband read and my kids indulge in their sugary pancakes, I contemplate whether my exercise choice could lead to something dangerous.
While my concerns may seem exaggerated, consider this: when was the last time you breezed through a stop sign or checked a text while driving? Most people wouldn’t do it intentionally, but it happens subconsciously.
So, I urge you to think twice. Stay alert for pedestrians in areas where families walk or people run with their dogs. Follow the traffic laws and give them ample space. Acknowledge their vulnerability, and remember that the road is your responsibility.
Imagine if it were your mother or daughter trying to enjoy a moment outdoors. Now, picture yourself distracted by your phone, driving too quickly, and missing a stop sign. Can you guarantee you won’t hit them? It’s a risk I would never take. Please, for your sake and the safety of everyone else, pay attention while you drive.
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Summary:
This article emphasizes the importance of driver awareness, especially in residential areas frequented by runners and pedestrians. It recounts a personal experience of a near-miss with a distracted driver and urges readers to prioritize safety by avoiding distractions while driving. It calls attention to the growing number of individuals enjoying outdoor activities during the pandemic and highlights the shared responsibility of keeping roadways safe for all.