Walking is one of the best overall exercises that you can do. It’s a great workout in almost any weather or time of day. You can explore new places or take a stroll around your neighborhood. However, being a pedestrian can still be risky.
There are more cars on the road than ever before. If you are walking in an urban area with a lot of traffic, you need to keep your safety in mind. Drivers can become distracted and don’t always pay close attention to people walking on the side of the roads.
If you want to avoid getting injured as a pedestrian and having to call Adam S. Kutner Accident & Injury Attorneys, you need to know how to stay safe on your daily walking workout. Let’s take a closer look at a few ways to stay safe as a pedestrian.
Dress Brightly
Over 70,000 pedestrians are hurt in traffic accidents every year. That means that it is crucial to stay safe when you are walking around high-traffic areas. One of the best ways to protect yourself is to be seen. Wearing bright and reflective clothing can help drivers to see you when they are on the road. You can wear a bright t-shirt, a reflective vest, or pants, then have a reflective strip down the leg to help drivers see you clearly.
Avoid Night Walking
Even with bright clothing, it is still not safe to go walking at night. Visibility is diminished during the night, making it harder for drivers to spot pedestrians. While it may be more comfortable to walk in the evening when the summer temperatures start to drop, you are putting yourself at greater risk of being involved in a pedestrian accident.
Avoid Main Thoroughfares
If you love to get your exercise by walking, there are many places where you can safely take a stroll. It’s best to avoid busy streets and highways. The higher traffic volume can put you at significant risk for an accident. It’s best to choose a local trail for your walking route or stick to the side streets where there isn’t so much traffic.
Stick to Sidewalks
Staying on the sidewalk when you are walking puts a safe distance between you and the traffic on the roads. If you are heading out for a walk, it’s best to plan out your route to help keep you safe. Choose roads and side streets that have sidewalks and avoid areas where you are forced to walk on the side of the road.
Walk in the Park
We know that walking for exercise can be great for your health, but it can also be good for the soul. When planning your walking route, try to incorporate pathways that take you through natural environments. Search out pathways that travel through your local parks. These nature-enriched and beautiful routes keep you away from traffic risks and make your exercise routine more enjoyable.
If you love to head out for a walk but don’t have any safe places nearby, it’s best to choose another activity. You may want to work out at home on a treadmill or find a nearby gym where you can work out safely. If you love to walk, follow these tips to help you stay safe as a pedestrian and get the most out of your workout.
