by Siamak Mirnezami

Created on: January 28, 2009

Whilst I voted no because I had to choose one, the answer is not black or white. It really depends on a lot of factors. Jogging or any pursuit other than motorized transport on the roads can be safe if safety is first and foremost in the participant's mind. I ride a bicycle on the road. I have come across joggers and other cyclists that look as if they believe they are invincible. Why ?. Runners and cyclists alike with mp3 players in their ears. Not able to hear what is behind them and or any potential danger. They unwittingly reduce their chances of survival.

I submit to you that having a distraction like that is dangerous even on a trail where no motorized vehicles are not allowed. A few rules will help increase chances of survival. Be visible. Even in day light its difficult to see slower moving objects from within a car, sun in the eyes, overcast weather, unclean windshields, people on the phone, kids in the car.. So many distractions a driver faces. Anything that can help a not so focused driver notice you increases safety. If there is ever an argument with a car or a truck; guess who will be on the loosing side ?.

Running or riding on the wrong side of the road as a safety measure is bogus. It is very dangerous. Joggers and Cyclist alike need to follow the highway code to the letter, watch out for traffic, animals off leash, cyclists, other joggers, wear something bright and reflective; in other words be visible, Listening to music is really not safe, Do carry ID and information about medication if appropriate. Use all your senses to avoid having a seriously bad day.

Now, non of this can prevent the fate that might await you. Like the drunken driver that killed my friend on a close country road, one fateful day at noon, in broad daylight. Or the two cyclists that got mowed by a CHP driving the wrong side of the road; or the joggers that got killed in NYC by being hit by cars. These measures hopefully will increase your chances of survival and might prevent un-necessary demise.

The idea here is to have fun, get a good workout and live to run or bike another day.

Last but not least, if you think naaah, I will be all right, I know what I am doing, and this guy is way too cautious. Ok, please carry an organ donor card. Supplies are always short.

My motto :: Safety first, comfort next. And you are responsible for your own safety no one else. use common sense. Alas, common sense is less common than we think.

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