7 safety rules for running in the dark

Fall is just around the corner.  Temperatures are a little cooler now and many runners are making final preparations for the Fall Marathon Season.  This is the time of year where runners notice the days are getting shorter which equates to dark or near-dark conditions for those early morning runs. If you're a morning or late evening runner, either by choice or necessity, here are 7 safety rules to observe when running in low-light conditions:
 

• Choose your route carefully
  Avoid busy streets. Pick a well-lit route that has the least amount of traffic. Use an online mapping tool such as Google Maps http://maps.google.com/ in satellite or hybrid mode to ensure your route has a safe path for you to run.

• Use a route you know well
  A familiar route is easier to navigate in the dark and helps you maintain a sense of composure during times of uncertainty.  For example, if you see a large dog approaching you out the corner of your eye you're more likely to have plan of defense on a route that is familiar to you.

• Assume drivers cannot see you
  This could aptly be named "maintain good run defense." Knowing you cannot take on a vehicle will force you to stay as close to the curb as possible. When busy streets are unavoidable, run on the sidewalk unless there are obstructions in your path.  Always run against the flow of traffic to ensure two-way line of sight with oncoming vehicles and to ensure vehicles approaching from the rear have room to steer around you if necessary. 
• Find the sidewalk or grass when a vehicle approaches head on
  This is especially important when a  vehicle slows down because that's a good sign the driver either cannot see you or is having difficulty navigating around you.  After you've run a few miles of your route, it is easy to falsely assume drivers see every move you make. If there is no sidewalk available, keep your eyes focused on the drivers head or face, if possible.  Any sign of panic will be revealed in the driver's head movement or facial expressions.

• Wear light or reflective clothing
  Wear bright a colored shirt or headband. If your budget allows, wear reflective clothing to help expose your location to drivers. 

• Obey traffic signs and laws
  J-walking is quite common in large urban areas, especially during sunlit rush hour traffic. On the other hand, in low-light conditions it is unwise to keep a driver guessing where you are headed as can be the case if you do not obey traffic signs and laws. You can never be too safe if you use crosswalks, stop at stop lights, etc.

• Carry identification
  God forbid you do have an accident during a run.  If an accident does occur, be sure you have identification (a driver's license, id bracelet, PDA, etc.) to ensure your family and or friends can be contacted.  An excellent safety precaution is to carry your cell phone with your emergency contact(s) listed in your phonebook under the entry "ICE" (In Case of Emergency).