Pedestrian deaths in El Paso more than doubled in 2016
The number of El Paso pedestrians killed by a car in the city is up drastically this year to 19, compared to 8 at this same time in 2015.
The numbers are a stark reminder to those who run outdoors about the importance of staying safe.
ABC-7 caught up with a group of runners that hit the streets early Sunday morning. Members of the group, made up of women and men of all ages, said the route was all planned out in advance.
“There are a lot of places in El Paso that don’t have sidewalks,” runner Alaina Castillo told ABC-7. “So, we have to try and stay on different trails and just make sure we know exactly where we’re going and where vehicles are at at all times.”
Castillo runs with the group that coordinates their run times on Facebook. Michelle Lemke drew up the route.
“It’s something that I genuinely enjoy. It’s a big part of my life,” Lemke said. She’s just as passionate about keeping the group safe, telling ABC-7, “I’ve been in situations where I’ve almost been hit by a car even though I’ve had the right-of-way.”
November is National Running Safety Month. The focus on running safety is in the fall as nightfall comes earlier, making for dangerous road conditions. The runners said it’s great to remind runners and drivers alike to share the road.
“We feel that a lot of vehicles usually pay attention to other vehicles on the road, but they’re not really expecting to see cyclists or runners,” Castillo said. Lemke added, “With texting and driving still being very predominant, (runners) have to be cognizant of what’s happening.”
Tips from these runners to others include: run in a group, face traffic, and wear lights, light colors and reflective clothing and gear.
“If you have to run by yourself, then (choose) well-lit areas, safe areas, marked trails, anything to where you have the safe advantage and you’re aware of your surroundings,” Castillo said, adding that she knows several runners who carry sticks or Mace if they’re alone.
Runners also advise others to carry a form of identification and to avoid wearing earphones so they can hear traffic.
As for the deadly crashes in El Paso, police officials told ABC-7 that 11 of the 19 pedestrians who were killed were crossing the road at areas not designated as crossing points. Driver error appears to be a factor in three other cases and the rest are active investigations, according to EPPD.
