For many of us, jogging along our San Diego community streets is as routine as a trip to the grocery store – it doesn’t cross our minds that our roadways could pose danger when it comes to pedestrian safety. But the truth is that jogging on public roadways is not all that safe. And even though residential streets have generally lower speed limits, the risk of injury or death in the event of an accident can be just as high as main arterial streets.

If you’re a regular jogger, we urge you to be on high alert as you run your next mile. Wear reflective clothing. Carry a flashlight. Use private walking paths. Do what you can to be as safe as possible!

Our advice follows on the heels of a recent Del Mar pedestrian accident that resulted in a jogger’s wrongful death. Del Mar Times (5/2/2015) recently reported that although the jogger was initially treated for injuries following the collision, she tragically passed away as a result of catastrophic injury.

The accident occurred near Del Mar Trails Road and Mona Lisa Street in Del Mar. According to officials, the female jogger used a marked crosswalk when she was hit by a vehicle traveling through the intersection. The woman, 57, was transported to a local hospital for treatment but she tragically passed away on May 1 following blunt force injuries.

The driver of the vehicle was not injured according to reports.

No charges have yet been filed as officials continue to investigate the cause of the accident including any contributing factors that may have led to the accident such as speed, road conditions and driver error.

WHEN CROSSWALKS AREN’T ENOUGH

According to reports, the jogger in question was using a crosswalk, which makes this accident all the more unfortunate. It’s always a good idea to be proactive, but in many cases, sometimes it just isn’t enough. As pedestrians, we need to be on high alert. Here’s what you can do to increase your safety in addition to using designated crosswalks.

WEAR REFLECTIVE CLOTHING

Be bright! Consider wearing bright athletic gear when perusing public roadways as a pedestrian. Consider buying a reflective mesh vest that stands out, especially when illuminated by headlights or street lighting.

CARRY A FLASHLIGHT

Most people jog during the early morning or early to late evening hours – after all, it’s nice and cool during that time of day, so it makes perfect sense. However, although weather conditions may be ideal, outdoor lighting is not nearly as ideal due to poor visibility. Even if you think the sun is out and you’re completely visible, carry a flashlight nonetheless. You just never know when the extra source of light can come in handy when it comes to your visibility on the road.

FIND A WALKING PATH

Although it’s nice to just throw your sneakers on and head out the front door for a jog, you may want to consider driving to a walking path after all. Most neighborhoods and cities in San Diego offer walking paths that are protected from vehicle traffic so your risk of injury or death by way of vehicle collision is at a minimum. It may require a little extra work to get there, but the increased level of safety may be worth it. Also, consider bringing a friend along – it’s not only safer but it could be a fun new weekend routine for the both of you.

WHEN PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENTS OCCUR

Unfortunately, even the safest and most proactive individual can be hit by a vehicle. If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident, seek legal help and preserve your legal rights right away. To talk to an experienced San Diego accident attorney, give us a call today at 1-858-551-2090 and speak to a lawyer for FREE. Our consultation is completely confidential. As San Diego’s most trusted personal injury law group, we will treat your case with attention and the utmost in service and results. Call today: 1-858-551-2090.