October is Pedestrian Safety Month, and the Clemson University Police Department (CUPD) wants to remind you of the importance of practicing safe behaviors, whether driving, walking, biking or using an e-scooter.
Main campus and the surrounding area see high pedestrian traffic on a daily basis during the academic year, so whether you’re a pedestrian or a driver, there are actions you can take to protect yourself and others.
Safety tips when driving on and around campus
- Look out for pedestrians everywhere, at all times.
- Slow down and be prepared to stop when turning or otherwise entering a crosswalk.
- Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and stop well back from the crosswalk to give other vehicles an opportunity to see the crossing pedestrians so they can stop too.
- Never pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk. There may be people crossing where you can’t see.
- Follow the speed limit, which is 15 MPH on all campus roads unless otherwise posted.
- Be extra cautious when backing up and look for pedestrians.
Safety tips when walking on and around campus
- Follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals.
- Put your phone away when crossing the street to maintain awareness throughout.
- Walk on sidewalks whenever they are available.
- Cross streets at crosswalks or intersections. Look for cars in all directions, including those turning left or right.
- If a crosswalk or intersection is not available, locate a well-lit area where you have the best view of traffic. Wait for a gap in traffic that allows enough time to cross safely; continue watching for traffic as you cross.
- Watch for cars entering or exiting driveways or backing up in parking lots.
Additional safety reminders at Clemson
- Individuals riding bicycles, e-scooters and other micro-mobility devices must obey the same traffic laws as drivers. Always yield to pedestrians and never ride against traffic.
- If riding in the City of Clemson, follow city ordinances and adhere to dismount zones.
- Golf carts must adhere to the same traffic laws as cars. Use hand signals and yield to pedestrians.
- Be patient when driving through campus, especially during class change times with high pedestrian traffic.
For more tips, resources and information on Pedestrian Safety Month, visit NHTSA.gov.
