Crosswalk safety is of utmost importance when navigating the New Mexico State University campus. The NMSU Emergency Planning Committee provides guidelines and tips to ensure the safety of pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers.
Pedestrians are advised to always cross at marked crosswalks and obey pedestrian signals. They should also remember to look left, right, and left again before crossing the road. It is crucial for pedestrians to make eye contact with drivers to ensure that they are seen. Additionally, pedestrians should exercise caution when walking past stopped vehicles, making sure all lanes are clear before crossing. It is important to note that bicyclists are not considered pedestrians unless they are walking their bikes.
Bicyclists, on the other hand, must yield to pedestrians and follow vehicular traffic signals and laws. They should be especially cautious when transitioning between bike paths, roads, and sidewalks, as their actions can be unpredictable to both drivers and pedestrians.
Drivers play a significant role in crosswalk safety. They must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and at intersections. If pedestrians are crossing or preparing to cross, drivers should come to a complete stop. It is crucial for drivers to be prepared to stop at all marked crosswalks and to reduce their speed in areas with crosswalks. Drivers are also advised to wait until pedestrians have crossed at least one lane past the lane they are in before resuming travel. Passing another vehicle that has stopped or is slowing down at a crosswalk is strictly prohibited. Furthermore, drivers should refrain from texting or talking on their mobile phones while driving.
In addition to these safety tips, NMSU provides resources and training for utility cart operators. Utility carts, including golf carts, turf vehicles, and small rough terrain vehicles, are allowed on controlled access areas and streets of the campus. However, operating these carts on sidewalks poses risks to pedestrians. Therefore, special training and responsibility are required to prevent incidents and potential injuries. All individuals operating utility carts must undergo training before using the vehicles.
To learn more about campus driving best practices and utility cart requirements, visit the NMSU Safety website. For further information about NMSU campus safety trainings and programs, visit the NMSU Police website.
In conclusion, practicing caution and being aware of one's surroundings is essential for crosswalk safety on the NMSU campus. Following the guidelines provided by the NMSU Emergency Planning Committee ensures the well-being of pedestrians, bicyclists, and drivers alike.
