DiNunzio's story makes headlines in Runner's World
Megan Earley
Issue date: 2/3/10 Section: Life
Going for a nice afternoon run on a clear, crisp sunny day is an excellent way to relax for a bit and get one's mind off school work and stress. The roads and trails surrounding our campus are relatively flat and make an excellent course for any runner.
In the spring of 2009, just weeks before her graduation, senior Elizabeth DiNunzio was jogging along Old Emmitsburg Road on one of these clear skied, sunny days when the unexpected occurred. DiNunzio was struck by a vehicle and killed. This event changed the way students run along that road and also opened discussions about changing the road so it is safe for runners.
Runner's World picked up this story in their January 2010 issue in an article entitled "Collision Course." DiNunzio is just one of the 40 runners who have been killed in a running-related traffic accident since 2004 according to a study done by Runner's World. With all the technology available these days, such as GPS and cell phones, drivers tend to become distracted more easily, but runners need to do their part as well in securing a safe run. "Collision Course" emphasizes the importance of safe running habits and being conscious of vehicles on the road. Below are some of the tips and suggestions on safe running practices as well as how to deal with careless drivers.
•Wearing headphones: Music is good and can help pass the time during long runs. However, the music can often block out the noise of approaching vehicles. The article suggests running with one headphone bud in so you can enjoy the music as well as staying safe.
• Be careful when you run: Seeing the sunrise in the morning can be nice and relaxing but realistically, both runners and drivers can be sluggish in the morning. Also, be careful running at night. Drivers have a hard time seeing runners so be sure to wear light reflective clothing.
• Respect the driver: Face it, cars are much larger than runners and the car will most likely win in an accident. Politely wave and acknowledge drivers when they move over and allow you space on the road. However, not all drivers are runner-friendly, so also be prepared to hop off the road onto grass or the sidewalk.
•Running/ traffic laws: the rules of running combined with rules of the road are not quite clear. This article suggests to run against traffic so you can react to a motorist mistake. Wait for a driver to wave you through an intersection, then wave back. If running in a larger group, run single file so cars can pass.
For more information on safe running tips or to read the complete article visit www.runnersworld.com, keyword Elizabeth DiNunzio.
In the spring of 2009, just weeks before her graduation, senior Elizabeth DiNunzio was jogging along Old Emmitsburg Road on one of these clear skied, sunny days when the unexpected occurred. DiNunzio was struck by a vehicle and killed. This event changed the way students run along that road and also opened discussions about changing the road so it is safe for runners.
Runner's World picked up this story in their January 2010 issue in an article entitled "Collision Course." DiNunzio is just one of the 40 runners who have been killed in a running-related traffic accident since 2004 according to a study done by Runner's World. With all the technology available these days, such as GPS and cell phones, drivers tend to become distracted more easily, but runners need to do their part as well in securing a safe run. "Collision Course" emphasizes the importance of safe running habits and being conscious of vehicles on the road. Below are some of the tips and suggestions on safe running practices as well as how to deal with careless drivers.
•Wearing headphones: Music is good and can help pass the time during long runs. However, the music can often block out the noise of approaching vehicles. The article suggests running with one headphone bud in so you can enjoy the music as well as staying safe.
• Be careful when you run: Seeing the sunrise in the morning can be nice and relaxing but realistically, both runners and drivers can be sluggish in the morning. Also, be careful running at night. Drivers have a hard time seeing runners so be sure to wear light reflective clothing.
• Respect the driver: Face it, cars are much larger than runners and the car will most likely win in an accident. Politely wave and acknowledge drivers when they move over and allow you space on the road. However, not all drivers are runner-friendly, so also be prepared to hop off the road onto grass or the sidewalk.
•Running/ traffic laws: the rules of running combined with rules of the road are not quite clear. This article suggests to run against traffic so you can react to a motorist mistake. Wait for a driver to wave you through an intersection, then wave back. If running in a larger group, run single file so cars can pass.
For more information on safe running tips or to read the complete article visit www.runnersworld.com, keyword Elizabeth DiNunzio.
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