It was a brisk morning in early December, with snow predicted for later in the day. After enjoying a steaming cup of coffee and microwaved pancakes for my kids, I laced up my sneakers and set off for a run.
Reflecting on this moment, I can’t help but cringe. Before the pandemic, I wasn’t particularly active; a weekly stroll or a brief elliptical session felt like a victory, and I would reward myself with a break from exercise for weeks. However, like millions during quarantine, I sought an escape, leading me to embrace running.
Over the past few months, I’ve committed to responsible running practices. I wear all-weather sneakers, carry a blinking visibility light, and don a sports mask and protective gear. I’ve even braved running in the rain, showcasing just how much I value my daily dose of alone time.
On that particular morning, I was diligent—running on sidewalks, stopping at intersections, and checking for traffic. Living in a suburban area outside Pittsburgh, I navigate roughly 20 intersections on a two-mile route. While it can be anxiety-inducing to stay vigilant against vehicles and other pedestrians, safety necessitates this caution.
As I approached a four-way stop, a pickup truck and I arrived simultaneously. He gestured for me to cross, but his attention was on his phone, leading him to accelerate unexpectedly. I instinctively slammed my hand on his hood, causing him to brake abruptly. Thankfully, I escaped unharmed, and as my heart raced, I waved and continued my run, feeling fortunate to be okay.
This isn’t an isolated incident; as a runner, I encounter close calls like this regularly. Sadly, it’s not even the worst I’ve witnessed. Many drivers ignore stop signs, speed through residential areas, and exhibit reckless behaviors like honking and swerving at runners. I often see people distracted by their phones, applying makeup, or even reading the newspaper while driving through my neighborhood.
It’s alarming to think that some drivers seem to forget the potential danger a vehicle poses to a person. Their actions can have dire consequences, and my safety is often in their hands. After all, I’m no match for a car.
The pandemic has encouraged many to get outside, including seniors, young couples with puppies, parents with toddlers, and teens on bikes. While it’s wonderful to see so many people outdoors, it’s clear that some drivers aren’t prepared for this change.
I sometimes feel like I’m playing a real-life game of Frogger, dodging various obstacles just to get home safely. Each time I step outside, I wonder, “Will I make it back in one piece?” I glance at my husband engrossed in a book and my kids devouring their mini pancakes, contemplating whether my chosen exercise could actually endanger me.
I know my concerns may come off as exaggerated, but consider this: when was the last time you rolled through a stop sign or checked your phone while driving? Such actions may not be intentional, yet they happen more often than we realize.
So, I urge you to remain mindful while driving, especially in areas frequented by pedestrians and runners. Respect their space and recognize their vulnerability. Remember that the responsibility of the road lies with you.
If it helps, picture your own mother or daughter trying to enjoy some fresh air. Now imagine you glance at your phone or drive a bit too fast, missing a stop sign. Can you guarantee they’ll be safe? It’s a risk I wouldn’t dare take. So for the sake of everyone on the road, please stay focused while driving.
If you’re interested in learning more about the topic, check out this other blog post. For those exploring options related to pregnancy, you can find valuable information at the National Institutes of Health website.
Summary
In a personal account, the author recounts a near-miss while running, highlighting the dangers posed by distracted drivers. She emphasizes the importance of awareness and responsibility on the road, urging drivers to prioritize the safety of pedestrians and runners. The piece serves as a reminder of the consequences of distracted driving and advocates for mindfulness to ensure everyone’s safety.