How Safe Am I Running At Night?

Most runners have dealt with injuries, but being hit by a car can cause the most severe damage. Fractures and head injuries may not only stop your training temporarily, but they could also have lifelong effects.

Specific statistics for how many runners in the UK get hit by cars at night are not readily separated from general pedestrian collision data. However, as the nights draw in, becoming darker earlier, here are some statistics that might make you think.

Statistics

In 2022, 385 pedestrians were killed, and over 13,000 injured in road accidents across Great Britain. A significant portion of these incidents occurred on urban roads, particularly in the late afternoon and early evening​. As a result, runners, face increased risks during lower visibility hours, especially in urban areas where 66% of pedestrian fatalities occur​.

Tips for staying safe when running at night

Running at night poses some unique risks, especially in areas with traffic or low visibility. Here are several tips to keep runners safe when training at night:

Wear Reflective Gear

Choose high-visibility clothing with reflective patches to make yourself visible to drivers. Reflective vests, armbands, or LED accessories can significantly improve your visibility.

Run Against Traffic

Running on the side of the road facing traffic allows you to see oncoming vehicles and react quickly if needed. This is a safer option compared to running with traffic behind you. The only caveat to this is when you might be running round a blind bend with no footpath.

Use a Head Torch

A headlamp or torch/flashlight not only helps you see where you’re going but also makes you more visible to others, especially in poorly lit areas. Head torches are much lighter these days with high-powered LED lights and long-life rechargeable batteries.

Stick to Well-Lit Routes

Whenever possible, choose routes with good street lighting. Avoid dark, isolated paths or roads where you are harder to see and more vulnerable.

Avoid Wearing Headphones

While music or podcasts can be motivating, wearing headphones can dull your awareness of your surroundings. Consider using just one earbud or running without them, especially at night, to stay alert. This also applies to wearing hoodies or hats which restrict your view or hearing. You need to be aware of everything around you at all times.

Run with a Buddy or Group

Running with others increases your safety. Not only that, it is much more fun with many other benefits. Join a club! If that’s not possible, make sure someone knows your route and estimated return time.

Stay on Paths

Where available, use sidewalks, running paths, or parks. Running on the road increases your risk of collisions with vehicles, especially at night when visibility is reduced.

Carry Identification and a Phone

Bring some form of ID or use an app like "RoadID" so you can be identified in case of an emergency. A phone is also crucial for contacting help if needed.

Wear Bright Colors

Even though reflective gear is essential, wearing bright, fluorescent colours can further increase your visibility, particularly in the early evening before it gets completely dark.

Following these tips can help reduce the risk of accidents and make your nighttime runs safer​.