5 Pedestrian Safety Tips All Campus Community Members Should Know

Using the miles of pedestrian pathways and sidewalks is one of the best ways to get around campus. Whether you’re running late on your way to class or a meeting or taking a casual stroll around the Quad, it’s always important to keep safety in mind as a pedestrian.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there has been an uptick in pedestrian-motor vehicle accidents since 1996, and nearly 4.4 million people every year are injured by motor vehicles. A 2019 study from NHTSA found that there was a 1.3% increase in pedestrian-motor vehicle injuries.

Five tips to keep in mind as a pedestrian on campus:

1. Always look left, right and left again before crossing a street. Focus on your surroundings, and if you see a car coming toward you, make direct eye contact if possible.
2. Cross at street corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks. If none are available, be extremely cautious before crossing — drivers may not be familiar with the flow of traffic.
3. Be alert. Listening to music on headphones or looking down at cellphones or other technology distracts attention. Keep your head up.
4. Use the sidewalk, if possible. If a sidewalk isn’t available, walk facing oncoming traffic and stay as far away from the lane as possible.
5. At night, wear reflective clothing and, if possible, stay near well-lit areas to make sure you stay visible.

What to do if you’re in a pedestrian-motor vehicle accident:

1. Do not leave the scene. Immediately call 911 or UAPD at 205-348-5454. Even if it’s a minor incident, it’s especially important to contact the proper authorities.
2. The University offers social workers and caretakers to those who need assistance after an incident. UAPD will assist with getting the proper authorities involved.
3. Document everything. Take pictures, record any injuries and keep a file of ongoing issues that may arise.
4. Contact Student Life and the Counseling Center if you need to talk to someone.

Safety Reminder: UA Alert System Test

Weather permitting, the University will test its emergency notification systems, including UA Alerts, the public address system and digital signage Wednesday, Nov. 3, at 11:55 a.m.