About Global Running Day
Every first Wednesday in June, Global Running Day is observed to celebrate the sport of running. Participants range from all ages and abilities and can be celebrated in the following ways:
- Taking part in a running event, such as the free Virtual NYRR Global Running Day 5K, or any other local or online races that suit interest levels
- Going on a run with family or friends, taking in the benefits of exercising together
- Sharing photos and stories on social media using the hashtag #GlobalRunningDay
- Exploring a new route or terrain
- Setting new goals by training for a marathon, improving speed, or simply running more consistently
- Supporting a cause and running for charity, raising awareness, or donating to a running-related organization
No matter how Global Running Day is celebrated, remember to have fun and be safe.
Here is a reminder of some important pedestrian safety tips to keep in mind when on your run.
Pedestrian Safety Tip Refreshers
Whether it’s to get some extra steps in or save on gas prices, Southern California’s comfortable year-round weather makes it enjoyable for many locals to commute on foot. Here are some recommendations for pedestrian safety:
- Walk on the sidewalk. While this may appear obvious, it is important to remember that there are many reckless drivers on the roads. Pedestrians who can separate themselves as far as possible from traffic will be better protected. If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic.
- Make eye contact with drivers. This is the best way for pedestrians to ensure that drivers see them before proceeding to cross the street.
- Follow traffic laws. Obeying the rules of the road should be followed by everyone, including car drivers, bicyclists, motorcyclists, and pedestrians. Crosswalks are designed to make it safer for pedestrians to cross the street, so use them when possible.
- Be especially careful at night. It’s harder for drivers to see pedestrians at night, so be extra cautious when walking after dark. Wearing bright and reflective clothing makes joggers more noticeable to motorists after the sun sets.
- Be patient. It can take time to cross busy streets in Los Angeles, making it tempting for some to take shortcuts or sprint across traffic. While it may seem like an inconvenience in the moment, remain patient and wait for traffic to clear before crossing, and use a crosswalk when available.
New Jaywalking Laws in California That Affect Pedestrian Safety
Jaywalking is when someone crosses the street outside of a designated crosswalk. Until January of 2023, jaywalking was illegal and punishable with fines and tickets. However, the latest Freedom to Walk Act permits safe jaywalking. Ultimately, if there is no immediate chance of a collision and traffic is clear, a pedestrian is permitted to cross a street without using a crosswalk.
Busy streets such as Sunset Blvd., Hollywood Blvd., Rode Dr., and Melrose Ave. draw a lot of traffic and congestion. While jaywalking may help cut down on commute time, as a safety precaution, it is still strongly encouraged to use crosswalks whenever possible in Los Angeles.
Distractions Affect Everyone
Distracted driving certainly has major consequences, as texting while driving takes attention away from operating a motor vehicle safely, not just endangering other motorists but neighboring pedestrians, as well.
Similarly, distracted walking can pose a threat to pedestrians, themselves. Cell phones tend to be the biggest distraction. While phone usage with exercise is quite common, there are some precautions that can be taken, allowing pedestrians to find a happy medium in using their phones while on a run.
Keep Music at a Reasonable Volume
Researchers have found that listening to upbeat music during a workout, particularly during a run, increases heart rate and power output. Music also makes the experience more enjoyable, so recommending to exercise in silence is unrealistic. Instead, try to keep the volume at a level that does not interfere with outside noises.
Minimize Phone Use
It is easy to lose focus of the surrounding area when all of the attention is honed in on text messages or social media notifications. Try to cut down on phone use while outside and save the updates for later. If the message can’t wait, move to a sidewalk that is well-light and away from moving traffic.
Remain Alert
Take notice of nearby motorists and bicyclists. While they are obligated to follow traffic laws, do not assume that they will. Remain aware of all surroundings and look out for abnormalities, like speeding and swerving vehicles.
Keep Your Head Up
Avoid walking and texting, especially at crosswalks and intersections. This also includes checking fitness trackers and watches. Pedestrians cannot assume that drivers will always yield to them–or see them. This is why it’s important to make eye contact with a driver who is turning a corner either at an intersection or crosswalk before crossing the street.
Prepare for the Unexpected
Try not to lose sight of what’s around. Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable, so focusing on reaching a destination can sometimes distract them from lurking dangers. Therefore, always be on the lookout for cars, cyclists, and other pedestrians.
Angeleno Accident Lawyers in Los Angeles, CA Specializing in Pedestrian Safety
Our personal injury law firm is committed to protecting the safety of our community. If you were recently involved in a pedestrian accident and have questions pertaining to the event, please feel free to contact our Los Angeles pedestrian accident lawyer for a free consultation.
We hope that these pedestrian safety tips prove to be helpful to you and your family, and Happy Global Running Day!
