Runners vs. Road Rage

By Cheryl Hart

Lately, every time a runner or biker goes out on the road, they are gambling with their safety. All too often they are chased by dogs, washed completely out of a driver's vision with blinding sunlight, or the next victim of road rage. In a blink, they become a hood ornament or passenger in the back of an ambulance.

We've all witnessed angry drivers screaming, laying on the horn or giving "special hand signals" to each other. My pet peeve involves a different kind of road rage that I come face to face with (literally) almost every day.

Most cars travel down the middle of their designated lane. But there are those who upon spotting a runner in the distance must suddenly trace the white line along the edge of the road with their tires. They have been known to honk their horns or throw cans out the window at a runner.

Last year a group of us were running along a country road, when a trucker seemed determined to drive over us. We laughed it off, concluding that he was probably just overcome by his strong conviction that real men would never be caught dead wearing Lycra running tights.

Many drivers get obviously irritated because they truly believe that unless you're on wheels, you don't belong on the road. Therefore, they are somewhat more tolerant of cyclists, but banish runners to the track.

They don't understand the importance of long-distance training. In order to run a marathon (26.2 miles), for instance, runners log 40 to 100 miles a week, including a long run of 14 to 24 miles. Imagine the monotony of running that in a continuous circle.

Furthermore, to prepare for road races, runners must train on real roads. There are specific techniques required for racing uphill, downhill and on flat terrain. And most runners prefer courses close to home for convenience, safety and to enjoy the scenery.

There's plenty of asphalt for everyone, and besides, it's not wise to play chicken with a huge hunk of traveling metal. Plus, let me emphasize that it's not always the drivers that are rude, but us.

So, let's review a few rules of road etiquette and safety.

1. Always run facing oncoming traffic.
2. When you see a car approaching, try to make yourself highly visible, then get over to the edge of the road.
3. Sharp curves are particularly dangerous because the car doesn't get much warning, so listen carefully. For this reason, don't use headsets on the road.
4. Don't make a car enter into the other lane to avoid hitting you. This puts the oncoming traffic in danger, too. Whether you are a runner or biker, don't continue to run two or three abreast creating a blockage for the car, but get over so that it can pass safely.
5. Wear reflective apparel when it's dark. A reflective vest or clip-on blinking light can be a life-saving investment.
6. Never assume that a driver sees you. If a car is stopped, always run behind it unless the driver has signaled you to proceed.
7. Be prepared to get completely off the road, but don't always assume you must. The footing is usually uneven at best and increases risk of foot and ankle injuries.
8. Don't assume all drivers are out to get you. Sometimes they are just distracted. And when they almost hit you, the anger is really an expression of fear because you caught them by surprise.
9. Show appreciation when a driver extends a courtesy. Smile, wave or somehow acknowledge their kindness.
10. When you see an oncoming cyclist, it's probably easier for you to maneuver the edge of the road than the biker.

Check out www.sharetheroadky.com to view your choice of three license plates designed to promote road safety. The organization says, "What better way to advertise sharing the road, than on the back of a car. A driver stopped at a red light has a visual cue to 'share the road' on the bumper of the preceding car."

Next time you see the "Share the road with a runner" bumper sticker or license plate, think about what you can do to strengthen the relationship between moving legs and wheels.

Cheryl Hart is owner of 2nd Wind, a motivational coaching business with a focus on achieving life goals.  She is also a certified personal fitness specialist and spinning instructor. Cheryl was Kentucky 's NCAA Woman of the Year (1993) and National Inspirational Athlete of the Year (1994). She is a member of Team USA , most recently winning silver medals in both the 2004 World Triathlon and World Duathlon.  She was named All-American in triathlon and duathlon (2003 & 2004). Cheryl has a B.A. in English from Centre College, where she served as communications associate, cross-country coach and sports information director.  To contact Cheryl, call 693-7443 or e-mail offrunnin@yahoo.com.