LEXINGTON, Ky. (Aug. 27, 2024) — Whether you are a student rushing to class or an employee heading to your next meeting, understanding and practicing safe campus navigation habits is critical to ensuring the safety of everyone in the campus community. 

The University of Kentucky is a pedestrian-focused campus, but it is also near many busy roads. Drivers and pedestrians can coexist safely, on campus or otherwise, if proper precautions are followed.

The UK Police Department and UK Transportation Services actively promote a safe and secure campus, but they need help.

Here are some tips to navigate safely whether traveling on foot or by car:

Tips for drivers

• Follow all traffic rules, including the designated speed limit.
• Always stop for pedestrians and provide adequate clearance, even if they are in a marked crosswalk.
• Be alert that pedestrians may be walking in unexpected areas.
• Don’t drive distracted or impaired.
• Before making a turn, look in all directions for pedestrians or bicyclists that may be in your path and be aware of potential blind spots.
• Be especially cautious during poor driving conditions, which can make it difficult to see pedestrians and cyclists.
• Never pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk, as they may be stopped for pedestrians. 
• Never attempt to “beat the light,” as pedestrians may have already started crossing the road.
• Consider taking advantage of UK’s campus bus system for trips around campus; this can help reduce traffic congestion.

Safety tips for pedestrians

• Always cross at marked crosswalks or intersections; this is where drivers anticipate pedestrians.
• Don’t rely solely on pedestrian signals; look in both directions before crossing the road.
• Remain vigilant and look both ways before stepping off the sidewalk.
• Never assume that drivers see you, even if you have the right of way. They could be distracted or impaired, or their blind spot may block visibility.
• When walking at night, use designated crosswalks that are well-lit.
• Always make eye contact with drivers to ensure you are seen.
• Wear bright or reflective clothing if walking in low-light conditions.
• Make sure you have enough time to cross if the light is counting down.
• Stand clear of buses, hedges, parked cars and other obstacles before crossing the street so that you are visible.
• Obey traffic signals and Walk/Don’t Walk signs.

Walking remains one of the safest and easiest ways to traverse UK’s campus, but taking extra precautions could prevent a major accident. By following these simple safety tips, motor vehicle drivers and pedestrians can safely coexist.