Running can help you stay in shape and boost your immune system. However, if you tend to run outside—near where cars drive—careless motorists can also make your favorite exercise dangerous. While personal injury law allows injured parties to sue for compensation for medical bills and loss of wages, the following guide offers advice for avoiding an accident in the first place.

A Guide to Running Safety

1. Avoid Busy Roads

Parks and trails are the safest places to run since you won’t have to worry about vehicles and traffic. However, not everyone has access to dedicated running areas. If you have to run on the street, stick to residential areas with fewer vehicles and wider sidewalks. If you like to jog in the early morning and evening, seek out well-lit roads that give you and drivers plenty of visibility.

2. Make Yourself Visible

A runner jogging in dark clothes on an unlit road can surprise even a diligent driver, so make yourself as easy to see as possible. If you’re running after dark or before sunrise, always wear bright clothing and choose shoes with built-in reflectors. A vest designed to hold glow sticks will also help you stand out on a dark road.

3. Don’t Wear Headphones

Music can help you get into the zone while running, but it also puts you at risk. With headphones on, you won’t be able to hear cars coming up behind you, drivers honking, or other signs of an impending accident. If music is an absolute necessity, wear just one earbud while jogging and keep your other ear open for warnings.

With offices in Katy, Richmond, and Sugar Land, TX, the personal injury law attorneys at Reed & Terry, L.L.P. have been serving clients throughout Harris and Fort Bend counties since 1994. With their extensive resources and personal injury law expertise, their team has helped countless runners collect the compensation they deserve after being hit by a careless driver. Visit their website for an overview of their practice areas. Call (281) 491-5000 to schedule a consultation today.