Joggers Should be Aware of Possible Dangers on the Streets

Jogging and running is a favorite pastime for many residents of California. Thanks to the nearly year-round beautiful weather in SoCal, joggers and runners can hit the pavement, parks, or trails to get the exercise they crave at almost any time. Whether training for a 5k or a longer race, or just going out to get some quick exercise, jogging and running can be dangerous. Runners may need the advice of an attorney if an injury occurs.

Hit by a Car

One of the most dangerous aspects of going for a jog is the traffic you may encounter. If you choose to jog along sidewalks or if you run on the side of the road, you may find yourself in the path of automobiles. Depending on the time of day and the clothes you are wearing, it may be difficult for a driver to see you. According to one report, over 120,000 runners are hit by cars each year. In 2016, famed musician David Crosby paid out $3 million after he hit a jogger in California’s Wine Country.

Hit and Run

Drivers who hit joggers do not always stop to help, and some continue driving. If a driver is not aware that someone is out running, he or she may not even realize that he or she has hit anyone. It sounds ridiculous, but drivers who are not paying attention may believe they have just hit an animal or piece of debris in the road. In some cases drivers may be intoxicated and unable to rationalize stopping to help.

In 2006, Dana Point was sued for negligence after a group of runners were knocked down in a hit and run accident. The attorneys for the group argued that the city failed to improve the safety features of the area. Those features could have prevented the hit and run accident from occurring.

Trip and Fall

Runners need to have their wits about them when out for a run. Depending on the type of running you are doing, it can be easy to be focused on the activity and not see something sticking up to trip you or an uneven piece of pavement. These falls can cause serious injuries, from cuts and scrapes to broken bones. Trips can be caused by tree roots, uneven pavement, bolts sticking up from bridges, debris, and even cyclists.

Gyms

It is not just running on the roads and sidewalks of California that can be dangerous. In 2016, a brain injury lawsuit was filed after Etelvina Jimenez fell off a treadmill when she fainted. The Sacramento resident hit her head, fracturing her skull. Jimenez sought $3.8 million in compensation for lost wages and future earning potential from 24 Hour Fitness, the gym chain where the accident occurred. Although operator error occurs often in these cases, Jimenez’s attorney claims the lack of a safety zone behind the treadmill is to blame for her injuries.

Flahavan Law Offices | Pedestrian v. Auto Attorney Thousand Oaks

If you or a loved one has experienced an accident while running and the medical expenses that come with it, contact Flahavan Law Offices. Flahavan Law Offices specializes in personal injury law and can give you advice on the compensation you deserve. Flahavan Law Offices is here to help with all your personal injury law needs.