Pavement Users

There's a lot of noise around people cycling on pavements at the moment, but as an amateur runner, I know there are more hazardous users of paths: pedestrians. Let me tell you why.

1) Dogs
Lots of people walk their dogs on long leads, or even without a lead at all. When running past a dog, you've no idea whether you're approaching a peaceful dog, a yappy but harmless one, or a complete savage bastard. Also it's very easy for even placid yet inquisitive dogs to trip you up. Polite dog walkers pull their dogs close when runners pass.

2) Parents with prams
Don't get me wrong, if it's a narrow path, I don't expect a parent to have to push a pram onto the road to pass me, endangering their child. I'm not a monster. But what winds me up is when multiple parents push prams two or even three abreast, taking up even a luxuriously wide path and forcing me onto the road. Drop behind your friends for a while if someone's coming the opposite way; there can be room for everyone.

3) Parents with kids
Same as above except the kids are on the loose. Sometimes they run in front of you. Sometimes they just don't get out the way. Sometimes the parents don't give a toss because they're too busy on their phone. Which leads me nicely to...

4) People on the phone
Usually young people but not necessarily, phone users are a nightmare. Sometimes they're looking down and texting, and only notice you when you're close enough to shout "excuse me!" in their ear, so that you don't have to jump in front of a car instead. Other times they're too engrossed in a conversation and don't listen even if you shout from 300m away.

5) Baby boomers
Look, I'm not trying to be ageist but they've lived long enough to know so many people. They stop and talk to everyone, and gather in large groups at zebra crossings, in shop doorways or on street corners, taking up the entire path. For crying out loud, move to one side. There are others who need to use it.

6) Pigeons
If we're going to be pedantic, these birds are an urban menace and they only fly away at the last second, making you think they'll fly into your face and give you pigeon-eye or something.

Now, clearly I'm not saying that we should ban pedestrians. But the point I am trying to make is that lots of us need to use the pavements, and sometimes we have to share them with runners, pedestrians, prams, dogs, kids, phone users, boomers, pigeons and even cyclists. So why don't we all just try and be a bit more aware of what's happening around us so that we don't have to panic at the last second and blame everyone else but ourselves.