Safety tips for runners on New Mexico roads

Most runners love to run. And for people in cities and towns throughout New Mexico, running takes place in relatively close proximity to cars.

However, running near a road carries some risk, and pedestrians who are struck by cars often suffer severe injuries. With that in mind, it’s important to do what you can to stay safe.

Tips to keep in mind for every run

To make safety a priority, just keep these tips in mind every time that you decide to go out for a run:

• Instead of running with the flow of traffic, always run against it — facing the cars.
• Never assume that a driver has seen you. Err on the side of assuming they haven’t seen you, even if they should have.
• Be extra careful at intersections, where drivers who are turning may fail to yield the right of way.
• Try to run in areas with sufficient lighting. If you can, run during daylight hours.
• Do not use your phone or wear headphones while you run. Stay focused on the road and the traffic around you.
• Only cross the road at crosswalks and when you have the “walk” symbol.
• Wear bright colors so that you are more visible. For nighttime runs, wear reflective clothing or LED lights.

All of this can help you stay safe, but there is no guarantee that a negligent driver will not hit you. If you suffer serious injuries, you need to know what legal options you have to seek compensation for medical expenses and other costs resulting from the collision.