The reason that I am writing this post today is to try to help people understand the importance of walking, running, or cycling on the correct side of the road (with the traffic).

In Big Bear, we have very few sidewalks and even less street lights. Often people like to get outside and walk through the neighborhood, especially in the mornings and evenings. Since we have few sidewalks, and relatively low traffic, pedestrians often will walk in the traffic lanes. With many sharp corners and a number of them being blind corners, coming around a corner and seeing a pedestrian facing you head on can be dangerous. Being an avid cyclist and hiker, I love to see people out taking advantage of the beautiful Big Bear sites, smells and views, but I shiver at the thought of one of these folks being hit by a vehicle.

First, let's assume we are fortunate enough to have the vehicles travel at the 25 miles per hour, the legal residential speed limit. An average walker travels at about 3-4 mph lets call it 3.5 mph for the moment. Walking into oncoming traffic at this 3.5 mph gives the pedestrian a feeling of security since they can see the oncoming traffic, but this is a false since of security. This actually increases the speed between the pedestrian and the car to 28.5 mph.

Walking with the flow of traffic turns this equation around and gives the speed a reduction to 21.5 mph, almost 25% less speed. Can we all agree that this is a safer equation? Reaction time is increased and the likelihood of being hit decreases.   

The equation is amplified if you are running or bicycling at higher speeds, or happen to be in an area that has higher speed limits.

Wear clothing that doesn't blend with the surroundings and take a flash light if you are walking at night or early mornings. Keep children close and ears and eyes open.