Whether you are walking, driving or biking, the WVU Police Department reminds our campus community of several tips to keep in mind to stay as safe as possible.
Pedestrian Safety
• Walk on sidewalks when possible. If a sidewalk is not available, walk facing traffic at a safe distance.
• When crossing a roadway, utilize marked crosswalks when available and obey all traffic laws, signals and signs. If a crosswalk is not available, cross in a well-lit area where you have a clear view of traffic. Be patient and wait to cross until you have ample time to cross safely.
• Assume drivers do not see you. When crossing a roadway, assume drivers are not going to stop and ensure that all vehicles, including ones that are turning, are aware you intend to cross.
• Heads up, phones down. Put the phone down while walking. Turn down the volume on headphones, or remove headphones entirely, and refrain from talking on the phone while crossing a street to limit distractions.
• When walking at night, wear bright colors and stay in well-lit areas.
• Don’t step into traffic from behind an obstruction.
Driver Safety
• Obey all traffic lights and signals. Reduce your speed for yellow traffic lights — running a red light is never worth the risk.
• Watch for pedestrians everywhere at all times, and always yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk.
• Use extra caution when driving in high pedestrian traffic areas, during inclement weather, while backing up and while driving at night.
• When turning or entering a crosswalk area, slow down and be prepared to stop.
• Never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol or while otherwise distracted, such as using a cell phone or wearing headphones.