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Night Walking Safety Rules

By , About.com Guide

Updated October 24, 2004

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You will need to be more defensive in your walking at night than in the day, although caution is always needed as cars often do not look for you or expect you to be there.

1. Use sidewalks and off-road paths : Separate yourself as much as possible from traffic by seeking out lighted paths and sidewalks.

2. Walk facing traffic: When you cannot avoid walking on the side of the road, always walk on the side of oncoming traffic so you can see and react to any vehicle . Do not walk with your back to overtaking traffic.

3. Extra caution crossing streets: Traffic does not expect pedestrians to be out walking at night. Even when crossing with a crossing light, assume that the cars who may be turning across your path do not see you.

4. Safety in numbers: Use the same routes used by other walkers and runners. Drivers are more used to seeing them there.

5. Don't get tripped: Tripping hazards are worse after dark. Uneven sidewalks, roots and rocks on trails, potholes and trash on the side of streets and roads - all can lead to a slip or fall. Walk with your eyes noting the ground 15 feet ahead to see upcoming hazards.

6. Blinded by the light: As we age we lose our ability to see well in the dark and recovering after having headlights shine in your eyes. Choose a path where you won't have frequent changes in the lighting level. Do not look straight into oncoming headlights.

Next page > Avoiding Attack> Page 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

More of this Feature
Tip 1: Reflective Glow
Tip 2: Carry a Light
Tip 3: Road Rules
Tip 4: Stranger Danger
Tip 5: Shift Schedule
Tip 6: Indoor Trails
Tip 7: Treadmills
Tip 8: Fun Night Events

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