Every morning and throughout the day, thousands of parents and caretakers strap their children into strollers, pack a snack and water bottle, and hit the pavement to get some exercise. Running with strollers is a great way to get your kids outside, get some exercise, and spend time together.
In many parts of Arizona, there are trail systems and sidewalks that keep you away from busy traffic. But those jogging trails don’t extend everywhere, so there are times runners will come in close proximity to traffic.
There are ways you can reduce the likelihood of being in an accident, but even the most careful runners are sometimes hurt by careless drivers. Here are some things you can do to stay safer:
• When there is a jogging trail, use it. Get off the roads and away from traffic whenever possible. However, remember to yield and look both ways whenever the trail crosses a road. Make sure drivers see you and have stopped before you proceed across.
• Keep your jogging stroller in good working condition. There is nothing worse than getting a flat tire or having a malfunction when you are crossing a road or jogging fast down a hill.
• Choose a stroller with brakes, and use the strap that attaches to your wrist in case you trip and fall and lose your grip on the handle. Brakes will help you keep the stroller slower downhill.
• Watch out for the hot sun! Pack plenty of water and think about shade options for your child. Heat stroke can cause serious injuries to both you and your child, so choose to run during cooler parts of the day. Wear your sunglasses so the glare doesn’t impede your ability to see traffic.
• Wear reflective gear, especially in the morning and after dusk. Have reflective strips on your stroller, your shoes, and your clothing. The more visible you make yourself, the more likely drivers will see you and yield.
• Cross intersections quickly. Keep your child in the stroller and only let them walk with you when you are on a closed jogging trail. You never know when a driver will fail to yield because they don’t see you crossing the street. Watch to make sure all lanes have stopped and have made eye contact with you.
If you are injured, get medical assistance for you and your child immediately, and call us at Breyer Law Offices, P.C., so we can investigate your case and determine if you are eligible for a settlement. Hospital bills and rehabilitation costs can get pricey after a jogging accident, and you’ll need an experienced team to help you navigate the legal system.