Visibility is safety issue

I applaud all those who are getting off their duffs and getting outside exercise, especially in this inclement weather. However, I’ll hold my applause for those who fail to also exercise good judgment by exercising in the streets and roads without outer clothing with reflective features, reflective vests, ankle/arm bands and/or something that actually lights their presence on the street or road.

In the poor light of darkness, especially with the fog and grime-covered snow berms, it is extremely difficult to see runners and walkers who are wearing dark clothing. Please consider an investment in the proper darkness safety attire as a cheap insurance policy.

It can be nearly equally traumatic for the driver who may hit a pedestrian as it can be for the pedestrian who may be hit due to his/her being barely visible. I can tell you from personal experience that the better I am lit with reflective gear at night, the farther down the road I can see when I become visible in a vehicle’s headlights, because I can see the vehicle begin to veer away from my path of progress. Please exercise the brain as well as the body.

R.K. Slaughter

Spokane