How To Handle The Runner That Leaves Your Car Filthy
Catch them before they step their, dirty, muddy, dusty shoe on your sparkly car carpet.
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Etiquette expert Lizzie Post, great-great-granddaughter of Emily Post, knows a thing or two about the rules of the road—and the descendant of the famous decorum diva is a runner too!
Q: My friend and I went trail running together—and she got my car filthy by not being careful about her shoes. Can I bring this up?
I would definitely bring it up, but like with everything etiquette, keep the other person’s perspective in mind and remember that it’s all in HOW you say it. After your run, as you’re headed back to the car—maybe five feet away (far enough that she hasn’t reached for the handle yet, but close enough that she won’t forget by the time she’s at the car door)—simply suggest that you knock the dirt off your shoes. “Hey, let’s knock the dirt off our shoes before we get in. I couldn’t believe how much of the trail we brought back last time!” If she refuses, you can always just unlock the driver’s side and leave her behind—KIDDING!
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