1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Running & Jogging

Which Side of the Road Should I Run On?

By , About.com Guide

Created October 22, 2009

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Question: Which Side of the Road Should I Run On?
I run outside a lot and I usually run against traffic. Is that the right way to run on the road?
Answer: Yes, you're doing the right thing by running against traffic. Running so that you can see cars coming at you is much safer than having cars at your back. In some areas, it's not even a matter of choice -- the law requires that runners and walkers face oncoming traffic.

Drivers have a lot of distractions and they may not see you until the last minute (or until it's too late). But you can take control of your own safety by facing traffic. If a car is coming toward you, make sure you get out of the way, if it looks like a close call. You should never assume that a driver can see you.

More: Running Safety Tips

Explore Running & Jogging
About.com Special Features

8 Ways to Cut Drug Costs

Learn how to save money on medications with these recommendations. More >

Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds

Keep yourself, and your family, happy and healthy this season. More >

We comply with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here.
  1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Running & Jogging
  4. Safety/Weather
  5. Safety Issues and Tips
  6. Running Safety – Which Side of the Road to On for Running Safety

©2010 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.