Monumental Marathon road closures will shut down streets across downtown Indianapolis this Saturday, November 7. Thousands of runners will take over the city for the CNO Financial Indianapolis Monumental Marathon, half marathon, and 5K. It’s one of the 15 largest marathons in the country, and it’s a fun day for the whole city.
At Keller & Keller, we’ve helped injured Hoosiers since 1936. We also know that big events put a lot of people on foot right next to traffic. So whether you’re running, cheering, or just trying to get across town, here’s how to stay safe.
Monumental Marathon Road Closures and Race Day Schedule
The race starts and finishes in downtown Indianapolis, near the Indiana Statehouse. Here’s the weekend schedule from the official race website:
- Thursday, November 5, 4 to 7 p.m.: Health and Fitness Expo and packet pickup at the Indiana Convention Center
- Friday, November 6, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.: Expo and packet pickup continue
- Saturday, November 7, 6:30 a.m.: Gear check opens near Washington Street and West Street
- Saturday, 8 a.m.: Marathon and half marathon start on West Street
- Saturday, 8:40 a.m.: 5K starts on West Street
- Saturday, 3:30 p.m.: Course closes
Monumental Marathon road closures usually begin early Saturday morning. Then streets reopen as runners clear each section. In past years, IndyGo has also closed several Red Line stations and detoured downtown bus routes until the race ends. So before you head out, check the official race site for the course map and the latest street list.
Why Race Day Is Risky for People on Foot
Marathons are usually very safe events. Still, trouble often starts at the edges of the course, where frustrated drivers look for a way around a closure. That’s when a driver may roll past a barricade, speed down a side street, or turn without seeing someone crossing.
Pedestrian safety is already a serious issue here. According to Indianapolis Metropolitan Planning Organization data reported by WISH-TV, Marion County had 35 fatal pedestrian and bicycle crashes in 2024. That was down from 45 the year before, which is good news. However, it still means a deadly crash involving someone walking or biking about every 10 days.
In addition, a Governors Highway Safety Association report found that Indiana pedestrian deaths rose 26 percent in the first half of 2024, even as they fell nationwide.
Safety Tips for Runners and Spectators
- Follow directions from police officers and course volunteers at every crossing
- Cross only at marked crossings, not between barricades
- Keep kids close, especially near the start on West Street
- Wear something bright if you’re out before sunrise for the early start
- Pick a meeting spot ahead of time, so no one wanders into the street looking for family
- If you drive in, park in a garage and walk the rest of the way
Tips for Drivers Dealing With Monumental Marathon Road Closures
If you live or work downtown, a little planning goes a long way.
- Check the course map the night before and plan a route around it
- Leave early and give yourself extra time, because detours back up fast
- Never drive around a barricade or follow a runner’s path
- Slow down near the course, even on streets that are still open
- Put the phone down, since looking up a detour while you drive takes your eyes off the road
- Watch for tired runners walking to their cars after the race
What to Do if You’re Hit by a Car
If a driver hits you while you’re running, walking, or crossing near the course, call 911 and get medical care right away. Some injuries, like concussions and internal bleeding, don’t show up until hours later.
Then, if you can, take photos of the scene and your injuries. Get the driver’s name and insurance information, plus contact details for any witnesses. Also ask for the police report number.
Timing matters in Indiana. You generally have two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. Indiana also uses a fault rule that can reduce or block your recovery if the insurance company says you were partly to blame. For that reason, it’s smart to talk to a lawyer before you give a recorded statement.
How Keller & Keller Can Help
Keller & Keller handles pedestrian accidents, car crashes, and wrongful death cases across Indiana. Our Indianapolis office is just north of downtown at 2850 N. Meridian St. Your first consultation is free, and we can meet at your home, at the hospital, or virtually. With our Zero Fee Guarantee, you don’t pay attorney fees unless we win.
If you or someone you love was hurt in a crash during race weekend, call Keller & Keller at (317) 926-1111 or 1-800-253-5537. Good luck to everyone running this weekend. Plan ahead for the Monumental Marathon road closures, and get home safe.
This post is for general information only and isn’t legal advice. Race times come from the official Monumental Marathon website as of November 3, 2026, so check it for updates. Crash data comes from the Indianapolis Metropolitan Planning Organization (via WISH-TV) and the Governors Highway Safety Association (via Axios Indianapolis).
