I want to tackle a topic that's deeply personal to me and critical for your safety: running against traffic.
After 13 years of running and countless close calls, I've learned this fundamental safety rule the hard way. When you run against traffic - facing oncoming vehicles- you give yourself the gift of visibility. You can see threats approaching and take evasive action if needed.
If you are new to running, believe me, it is not a matter of if this will happen, but when. At some point, no matter if you are on a long desolate country road, at a busy intersection, or in a quiet neighborhood, you will find yourself within feet or even inches of a vehicle. When you run with your back to traffic, you're essentially blindfolded on the battlefield. Given the numerous situations that I’ve experienced, I’m pretty sure my life would be drastically different if I hadn’t had my head up and been facing the oncoming cars.
The Law Is On Our Side
This isn't just good advice – it's actually the law in most states. Here's what you should know:
44 states explicitly require pedestrians (including runners) to use the left side of the road/shoulder and face oncoming traffic when sidewalks aren't available
The remaining states have similar recommendations in their driver education materials, even if not explicitly codified
States like California, New York, and Florida have specific statutes (CA Vehicle Code 21956, NY VAT §1156, FL Statute 316.130) mandating pedestrians face traffic
These laws exist for a reason: studies show that pedestrians walking/running against traffic have a 77% lower risk of being struck by a vehicle compared to those moving with traffic.
Something to think about: While I’m sure no one will ever get a ticket for running against traffic, it is possible that someone running on the wrong side of the road could be held liable if their position contributed to someone else's injury.
Beyond The Law: Practical Safety
Even if you're in a state without explicit laws, the physics and psychology don't change:
You can see distracted drivers and make eye contact
You can react to a vehicle drifting onto the shoulder
You're not relying on drivers to see you from behind
A Personal Plea
One of my biggest frustrations is encountering runners going with traffic, forcing those of us running correctly to step into the roadway to pass. Not only is this awkward, but this creates unnecessary danger for everyone.
I've had dozens of close calls over the years where seeing an approaching vehicle saved me from potential disaster. Running against traffic isn't just about following rules – it's about surviving to run another day.
Runners’ Roadmap: Quick Safety Checklist
✓ Run AGAINST traffic (facing oncoming vehicles)
✓ Wear high-visibility clothing, especially in low light
✓ Remain alert – limit headphone volume or use bone conduction
✓ Assume drivers don't see you - Always!
✓ Use sidewalks when available
Remember, we can log all the miles and hit all our pace goals, but none of that matters if we don't make it home safely. Let's look out for each other by following this simple but life-saving practice.
Run long, run strong, and most importantly – run safely!
Gotta run!
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